Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many things you should consider when traveling with powered chairs. The airport staff and airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to use it.
Be sure to have all of these details in hand prior to you head to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that comply with the regulations for air travel.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and stowed securely on airplanes. They typically come with a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stowed underneath the plane as checked luggage. Additionally, they will be able to navigate on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or roads that are muddy. They could also be fitted with a patented drive system which allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the gate to board. It is important to contact the airline in advance to make sure they are aware of any specific needs and confirm that they can meet them. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour before the time of departure, which is especially important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. This 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 prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to taking an electric wheelchair or scooter on their flights. They also request that you check-in an 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 personnel can obtain assembly/disassembly information and other helpful information regarding your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to provide an efficient and safe way to travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist in planning your itinerary and give you the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide you with instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety. You can then put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals aren't exposed, and it is placed upright.
Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, address, your phone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it is lost or mishandled on your trip. You may also consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will help you remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airline and airport personnel.
You should always arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure the proper storage of your equipment is completed. If you can be there earlier than two hours prior to the time you plan to depart. This is especially important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This allows you to check in early here and gives the airline representative ample time to help you stow your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair prior to traveling. This can be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will help you to seek compensation for damages from the airline. Consider bringing along an extra cushion for your seat to make the trip as comfortable as you can. The use of a cushion for your seat is essential for flights that will last more than an hour, since it reduces pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, getting on a plane could be an intimidating experience. However, with proper preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, air travel using your electric chair is feasible.
Before you book your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best way to check into your seat whether at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it is advised to arrive at least an hour before your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure that it is properly stored to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the type of power chair you own, it may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. In this situation, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the table to aid airline employees who handle your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair, such as the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any accessories that can be removed prior to when you leave for the airport and also to ensure that all of the controls are in working order.
Once you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the airplane. The airlines are prohibited from charging an additional mobility electric chair cost to store assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for those with disabilities since it allows them to avoid costly expenses.
A representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit down the aisle of the aircraft once the plane lands. Then, you will be able to board the plane, and your wheelchair more info will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as possible or at 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 guidelines, you can enjoy exploring new locations. The most important thing to remember is that if you're not comfortable moving around in your chair, you will never be able to enjoy the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be extremely stressful for people with mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make read more the trip less stress-inducing for you, but it's essential to follow the policies of your airline regarding the transportation and storage of your chair on the airplane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact the airline before your trip to inquire about their policy and to get any questions answered.
Most airlines will allow passengers to bring an electric wheelchair on your flight, so long as it's properly prepared for travel. Certain airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will require a doctor's letter to allow you to travel with your powered wheelchair. Some airlines will also require you to attendant controlled electric power wheelchair uk remove the battery-powered component of your chair and put it in a protective case.
When you arrive at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documentation you might require to the airport, like your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. 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 to airline or gate, be sure to explain your mobility needs clearly. Explain your wheelchair and any other accessories you may require for example, sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether they will be placing your wheelchair in a special cart or checking it for stowage. 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 different locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment as checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you additional fees for the storage of your wheelchair or scooter, just as they would with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, be sure to capture a photo before leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.