Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are many things to take into consideration. The staff at the airport and at the airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions and battery type, as well as how to use it.
Make sure you have all of this information at hand before you travel to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that meet air travel regulations.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be carried and stowed securely on airplanes. They will typically have a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stowed underneath the plane as checked luggage. Additionally they'll be able to maneuver on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips brick or muddy roads. They could also be fitted with a patented drive system which allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the gates for boarding. However, it is important to contact them ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of your needs and to confirm that they are able to meet those needs. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour before your departure time, which is especially important during busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. This space is limited and is first come first served. The federal regulations also demand that all batteries added to the system be inspected by a wheelchair or scooter. They must be shut off unless they are designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to you bring an electric wheelchair or scooter aboard their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour prior to your flight time to ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. Additionally, they request to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions and other helpful information regarding your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to offer the most secure and comfortable way to travel. These power chairs can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and stowage. If you are planning to fly with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist you in planning your travel itinerary and provide you with the latest information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines ask that you take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is securely tucked away in a straight position.
Depending on the airline you fly with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, address, your phone number, and the wheelchair model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment if it is lost or damaged during your trip. You might also think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that help you remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airline and airport personnel.
You should always arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure proper stowage of your equipment is done. If you can you can arrive earlier than two hours before your departure portable power chair 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 in stowing your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair prior to traveling. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage in obtaining compensation for any damages from the airline. Consider bringing along a seat cushion to make the trip as comfortable as you can. A seat cushion is essential for flights that will last longer than an hour, because it reduces pressure on your skin and help prevent 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 feasible with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Before booking your flight, talk to 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 regardless of whether it's at the counter for tickets or the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour before your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure that it is properly stowed to be ready for your trip.
Based on the power chair you have It may be necessary to disassemble it before transportation. In this instance it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in hand to assist the airline employees who handle your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. You should also take off any removable items and ensure that all controls are functioning before you depart for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the plane. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra for stowing assistive devices such as electric chairs. This is a great feature 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 a wheelchair that can fit down the aisle of the aircraft when the plane lands. After disembarking, your wheelchair will be returned to you at the shortest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with the right planning and following the rules you will be able to enjoy exploring new destinations. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you are not comfortable moving around in your chair, you'll never be able to enjoy the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be very stressful for people who suffer from mobility issues. If you're using an electric or wheelchair can make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's policies regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. Contact the airline ahead of time to learn about their policies on power chairs and to ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair for your flight, as that you prepare it to travel. Certain airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will need a doctor's letter to allow you to fly with a power wheelchair. Some airlines may also demand that you remove the battery-powered part of your wheelchair, and then place it in a case that is safe.
Arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your departure. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, like your owner's manual or assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
On arrival at the airline's ticket counter or at the gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Discuss your wheelchair and any accessories you may require like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be keeping your wheelchair in a specific cart or examining it for storage. If you're taking a transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, make sure to make a direct flight which will reduce the number of times that your equipment is moved between different locations.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment, just like checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment arrives damaged, you must take a photograph prior to leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.