Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few aspects to take into consideration when traveling with a powered chair. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you a lot of questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have this information in your possession prior to you head to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that comply with the requirements for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines can be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for use on flights and they can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. They will also be able move on rough surfaces such as deceleration stripes, gravel, bricks or muddy roads. They may also have an exclusive power drive system that permits them to navigate in tight spaces, or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the gates for boarding. It is important to contact the airline prior to your departure to make sure they are aware of any specific needs and to confirm that they are able to meet these requirements. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour before your scheduled departure which is crucial during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is limited and operated on an initial-come first-serve basis. The federal regulations also demand that all batteries added to the system be inspected by a scooter or wheelchair. They must be removed unless they are specifically designed to prevent 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, so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get assembly/disassembly information and other helpful information about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to provide an efficient and safe way to travel. These chairs are designed to fold up and conform to airline standards 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 assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your chair for safety purposes and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is safely stowed in an upright position.
Depending on your airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following information: your name address, number, and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it gets lost or is mishandled on your trip. You might also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that help you remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airport and airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. If you are able, arrive earlier than two hours before your departure time. This is especially important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This allows you to check in earlier and gives ample time for the representative of the airline to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you leave and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for damages from the airline. It is also advisable to bring an extra cushion for your seat to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Seat cushions are especially important for flights lasting over an hour. They will reduce pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those who travel using an approved airline electric wheelchair, getting on a plane is an intimidating experience. Traveling with a power chair is feasible with right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Before booking your flight, speak to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best way to check-in your chair whether at the ticket counter or the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour before your flight is suggested. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and make sure that it will be safely towed to be ready for your trip.
Depending on your power chair It may be necessary for you to disassemble it before it is transported. If this is the case, it's beneficial to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to help the airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. You should also remove any accessories that are removable and ensure that all controls work before you depart for the airport.
Once you are at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the aircraft. The airlines are prohibited from charging you a chairs electric cost to store assistive devices like power wheelchairs. This is a great benefit for passengers with disabilities since they can save money.
After the plane has landed, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to one that can fit into the aisle of the aircraft. You will then be able to disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as is possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with the right planning and following guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new locations. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if not comfortable in your chair, you will never be able to take advantage of the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. If you have a wheelchair or a scooter could make your trip more enjoyable. However, it is crucial to adhere to the airline's guidelines regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact the airline prior to your departure to inquire about their policy and get any questions answered.
Most airlines will allow you to take an electric wheelchair on your flight as you've prepared it for travel. Certain airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to boarding and others will need a doctor's letter prior to allowing you to fly with a power wheelchair. Some airlines may also demand that you disassemble the battery-powered part of your chair, and then place it in an enclosure that is protected.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before departure. It's recommended to bring any documentation, including your owner manual and any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will make it easier for the process of checking in and will help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
If you are at the airline ticket counter or at the gate, be sure to communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Provide the kind of wheelchair you're using and any other accessories you may require, such as cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or the possibility of transferring it to the aircraft using a specialized cart. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book a direct flight to minimize the number of times your device is moved between places.
When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment along with your checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. If your equipment is damaged, be sure to capture a photo prior to leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.