Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are many things to take into consideration. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you many questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have these details prepared before you travel to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with the regulations for air travel.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and stowed safely on planes. The FAA will approve them for travel on planes and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. In addition, they will be able to move on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or muddy roads. They could also be fitted with a unique drive system that permits them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the boarding gates. It is however important to contact them ahead of time to make sure they are aware of your needs and to confirm they can meet your needs. Certain airlines require you to arrive at least an hour prior to your departure time, which is especially important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is limited and on a first-come, first-serve basis. The federal regulations also require that any additional batteries be inspected by a scooter or wheelchair. They must be shut off unless they are specifically designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask that you check in one hour before your flight, to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful details about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure secure and comfortable travel. These chairs are designed to fold up and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist in planning your trip and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also give you assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety. You can then put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is secured in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, your address, your phone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it is stolen or damaged during your travels. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to help you remain in your chair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours before your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment storage. Arriving earlier than this is even better if possible, especially during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This allows you to check in earlier and gives ample time for the representative of the airline to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you travel to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for damages from the airline. It is also advisable to bring an extra cushion for your seat, so that the flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Seat cushions are especially important when you travel for more than an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline can be a daunting task. But, with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, traveling with a power chair is possible.
Before you book your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best way to check into your seat whether at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour before your flight is recommended. This gives the airline ample time to inspect your equipment and ensure it is safely stored for your trip.
Depending on your power chair, it may be necessary to disassemble the chair prior to transportation. In this instance, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the table to aid airline personnel who will handle your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any detachable accessories before you leave for the airport, and to make sure all of the controls are functioning properly.
Once you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and then stowed. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you a cost to store assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for passengers with disabilities, since it allows them to avoid costly expenses.
An airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which can fit down the aisle of the aircraft once the plane arrives. After disembarking, your wheelchair is returned to you at the nearest possible location to the aircraft door, either at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
A trip with an electric chair can be daunting, but with careful planning and adhering to guidelines, you can be able to experience the joy of exploring new locations easily. It is important to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair, you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for people who have mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, however it's important to adhere to your airline's policies for the transportation and storage of your chair on board the airplane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact the airline prior to your departure to inquire about their policies and ask any questions.
Most airlines allow you to bring an electric wheelchair on your flight, so you've prepared it for travel. Certain airlines might require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and some may require you to have a medical note on file prior to being able to let you fly with your electric chair. Some airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered portion of your chair and then place it in a case that is protected.
Once you're at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, including your owner's manual or instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you reach the ticket counter of your airline or at the gate, be sure you explain your mobility needs clearly. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any accessories you may need like seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be storing your wheelchair in a special cart or examining it for stowage. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book a direct flight to minimize the amount of times portable power chair your equipment is moved between locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment, just like checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra fees for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. Take a photograph of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.