Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are many things to consider. The staff at the airport and the airline will inquire about the dimensions of your chair, battery type, and how to use it.
Make sure you have these details prepared before you travel to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that are compliant with the requirements for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and safely stowed on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for air travel, and they can be kept in the airplane as checked baggage. Additionally they'll be able to move on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or roads that are muddy. They can also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending that allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter until the boarding gate. It is important to contact the airline prior to your departure to ensure they are aware of any specific requirements and to confirm that they can meet these requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to your departure time This is particularly important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. This space is limited and operates on the basis of first-come-first-serve. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected in conjunction with the wheelchair or scooter, since federal regulations require that they be disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with a safe design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when you bring an electric wheelchair or scooter on their flights. They also require that you check in an hour before your flight, to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather assembly/disassembly information and other helpful details about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are made for safe and convenient travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling, and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can help you plan your travel itinerary and provide you with the most current details regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines will require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety and put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed and that it is placed upright.
Depending on the airline you fly with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, your address, your number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it should become lost or mishandled during your trip. You might also consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which help you remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport at two hours before the departure time you have scheduled to ensure that the proper storage of your equipment is done. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better especially during peak holiday periods or during 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.
Before you leave, take a picture of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will help you in obtaining compensation for the damages from the airline. Consider bringing along a seat cushion to make your flight as comfortable as you can. Cushions for seats are essential for flights that last more than an hour. They reduce the pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
For those who travel with an airline approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane could be an intimidating experience. However, with the proper preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, traveling using your electric chair is possible.
Before you book your flight, speak to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best method to check-in your chair, whether it is at the counter for tickets or the gate. In either case, it is recommended to arrive at least an hour before your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure that it is properly stored for your trip.
Based on the power chair you have, power chair it may be necessary to disassemble the chair prior to it is transported. In this situation, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in hand to assist the airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any detachable items prior to you travel to the airport, and to make sure all of the controls are in working order.
When you arrive at the airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and then stowed. The airlines are not allowed to charging you an additional cost to store assistive devices like electric wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for passengers with disabilities, because it can help them save money.
An airline employee can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that will fit on the aisle of the aircraft once the plane arrives. After disembarking, your wheelchair is returned to you at the nearest possible location to the door of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with the right planning and following the rules, you can enjoy exploring new destinations. The most important thing to remember is that if not comfortable moving around in your chair, you'll never be able to enjoy the freedom that travel affords.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. If you're traveling with a wheelchair or a scooter can make your trip more enjoyable. However, it is crucial to adhere to the airline's guidelines for bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to inquire about their policy on power chairs, and to power chairs for sale inquire about any questions.
Most airlines allow passengers to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight, so long as it's properly prepared for travel. Some airlines may require you to recharge the batteries prior to boarding and some may require you to have a medical note in order to allow you to fly using your power chair. Some airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered part of your chair and then place it in a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours prior to the time of departure to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documentation you might need to the airport, like your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will help speed up the process of checking in and will prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
When you reach the airline ticket counter or at the gate, be sure you be able to clearly communicate check here your mobility needs. Be sure to describe the kind of wheelchair you're using and any necessary accessories, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage or the possibility electric powered wheelchair of transferring it to the plane using a specialized cart. If you're taking a transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, try to book a direct flight, which will minimize the number of times that your equipment is moved between various locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto lightweight power chairs the plane, it's stored in the cargo compartment with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair, like they do with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, make sure you take a photograph prior to leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.