Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many aspects to take into consideration when traveling with an electric chair. The staff at the airport and airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions and battery type, as well as how to use it.
Be sure to have this information in your possession prior to you travel to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that are compliant with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be carried and safely stowed on airplanes. They will typically have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel. They can be tucked under the plane as checked luggage. They will also be able navigate on rough surfaces, such as deceleration stripes, gravel, roads that are muddy or brick. They could also be fitted with a drive system that is patent-pending that allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the gate to board. It is important to contact the airline in advance to ensure that they are aware of any specific needs and confirm that they can meet them. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of your scheduled departure This is particularly important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes for the stowage and storage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited and it's first come, first serve. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair, since federal regulations require that they are disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with an effective design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also request that you check in one hour before your flight, to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful information about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to provide a safe and convenient way to travel. They can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline guidelines for battery size handling, stowage, and handling. If you plan to travel with your airline of preference, you should contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can assist you in planning your trip and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also give you assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety. You can then put it into a carryon bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals aren't exposed, and it is placed upright.
Based on your airline or airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following information such as your name, address, phone number, and model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment in case it is lost or damaged during your trip. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to help you remain in your chair while you travel with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport at two hours before the time of departure to ensure that proper stowage of your equipment is completed. If possible you can arrive at least two hours earlier than your scheduled departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and gives the representative of the airline plenty of time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair prior to travel. This can be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you the ability to seek compensation from the airline for damages. You should also consider bringing cushions for your seats so that your journey is as comfortable as it can be for you. Seat cushions are especially important for flights that last more than an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin preventing soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline can be daunting. Traveling with a power chair is possible with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Speak to an airline representative before making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best method to check in your chair regardless of whether it's at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, it is recommended to arrive at least one hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to examine your equipment and ensure that it will be stowed safely for your journey.
Based on the power chair you have, it may be necessary for you to disassemble it before it is transported. If this is the case, it's helpful to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to help the staff of the airline handling your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair, including the owner's manual or warranty information. You should also remove any accessories that are removable and make sure that all controls are functioning before you depart for the airport.
Once you arrive at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the plane. Airlines are not allowed to charge you extra for stowing assistive devices like power chairs. This is a wonderful benefit for people with disabilities, as it helps them save money.
Once the plane is in the air at the airport, an airline employee will be able to transfer you from your power wheelchair to one that is able to fit down the aircraft aisle. You will then be able to disembark, and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as you can in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric chair can be daunting, but with the right planning and adhering to guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the thrill of exploring new locations without difficulty. It is important to here remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to travel with the freedom it affords.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for those with mobility problems. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the journey less stress-inducing for you, but it is important to follow the policies of your airline regarding transporting and stowing your chair on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your departure to ask about their policy and ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring an electric chair on your flight, so that you prepare it to travel. Certain airlines might require you to recharge the batteries before boarding, and some may require you to have a doctor's note in order to allow you to fly using your electric chair. Certain airlines may also require you to disassemble the battery-powered part of your chair and then place it inside a protective case.
When you arrive at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours before the time of departure to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, like your owner manual and any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid, to the airport. This will help speed up the process of checking in and will help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
Upon arriving at the ticket counter or gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility requirements. Explain the kind of wheelchair you own and any necessary accessories like cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage or the possibility of transferring it to the plane using a specialized cart. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book an express flight to reduce the number of times your device is moved between locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment along with your checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for storing your wheelchair or scooter, just as they would with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, you must take a photograph before you leave the airport and immediately inform the airline.