Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few things you should consider when traveling with an electric chair. The airport staff and the airline will inquire about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have these details prepared before you travel to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that meet the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are able to be safely transported and stowed on planes. They typically come with a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stowed underneath the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore, they will be able to maneuver on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or roads that are muddy. They may also be equipped with a unique drive system that allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter to the boarding gate. It is important to call the airline ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of any specific needs and confirm that they can meet the requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour ahead of your scheduled departure which is crucial in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes that allows for the stowage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited and operated on an initial-come first-serve basis. The federal regulations also require that any additional batteries be inspected by a scooter or wheelchair. They must be removed unless they are designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask that you check in one hour prior to your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other information about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed for comfortable and safe travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold, and they meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling, and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These experts can assist you in planning your travel plans and provide you with the latest information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines will require you to remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed, and that it is placed upright.
Depending on your airline or airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following details: your name, address, phone number, and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it gets lost or is damaged during your travels. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to assist you in staying in your seat during transfers with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport 2 hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. Being earlier than that is even better especially during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This allows you to check in earlier and gives ample time for the airline representative to assist you website with stowing your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair before you travel. This serves as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for the damages from the airline. Consider bringing along an extra cushion for your seat to make the trip as comfortable as you possibly can. Using a seat cushion is particularly important for flights that last over an hour, as this will minimize pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline can be daunting. However, with proper preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, flying with a power chair is attainable.
Before you book your flight, speak to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to check-in your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour before your flight is suggested. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and ensure it will be safely towed for your journey.
Depending on the kind of power chair you own It could be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. In this situation it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the go to help airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any detachable accessories before you go to the airport and also to ensure that all the controls are in working order.
Once you arrive at the airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge you extra for stowing assistive devices such as power chairs. This is a great benefit for those with disabilities as it allows them to avoid costly expenses.
After the plane has landed, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to one that is able to fit in the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you will be able to board the plane, and your wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as you can in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with the right planning and following the rules you can have fun exploring new places. The most important thing to remember is that if you're uncomfortable in your chair, you'll not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that traveling affords.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, but it is important to follow the guidelines of your airline for bringing and stowing your chair on board the airplane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact the airline before your trip to inquire about their policy and get any questions answered.
Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair for your flight, so provided you prepare it properly for travel. Some airlines require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will require a physician's letter prior to allowing you to travel with your power wheelchair. Some airlines will also require you to remove the battery-powered component of your chair and then place it in a case that is protected.
Get to the airport at least two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before departure. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, like the owner's manual as well as any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will speed up the check-in and prevent confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the counter for tickets or gate, make certain to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Explain the kind of wheelchair you're using and any necessary accessories, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or if it will be transferred to the aircraft using an adapted cart. If you're transferring to the plane using your electric wheelchair, try to make a direct flight which will cut down on the number of times that your equipment will be transferred between locations.
Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo area along with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you additional fees for the storage of your scooter or wheelchair, just as they would with your luggage. Take a photo of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.