Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to take into consideration. The airport staff and at the airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Be sure to have this information in your possession prior to you leave for the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and stowed securely on airplanes. They will typically have an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be tucked under the plane as checked luggage. They will also be able navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration stripes, bricks or muddy roads. They could also be equipped with a patented power drive system that enables them to navigate in tight spaces, or lifts.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the boarding gates. It is essential to call the airline ahead of time to make sure they are aware of any specific needs and to confirm that they can meet them. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour before your scheduled departure This is particularly important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is limited and operates on a first-come, first-serve basis. The federal regulations also require that all batteries added to the system be checked with the wheelchair or scooter. They must be removed unless they are designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask to check-in one hour prior to your flight time to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful information about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to offer a safe and convenient way to travel. These chairs are designed to fold and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and stowage. If you are planning to travel with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can assist you in planning your itinerary and give you the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Some airlines ask that you remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is safely stowed in a straight position.
Based on your airline or airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following information including your name address, address, phone number and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it is stolen or mishandled on your trip. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to assist you in staying in your chair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
You should arrive at at two hours before the time of departure to ensure the proper storage of your equipment is done. If you can be there earlier than two hours before your scheduled departure time. This is especially important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This allows you to arrive electric wheelchairs for sale early and allows plenty of time for the airline representative to assist you with stowing your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair before you travel. This can be used as proof in the event that your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for any damages. You should consider bringing a seat cushion to make the flight as comfortable as you can. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights that last more than an hour. They can reduce pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline can be intimidating. But, with the right preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, flying with your power chair is feasible.
Before booking your flight, speak to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They will be able to guide you in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to get your seat at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, it is recommended that you arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure it is safely and properly stored for your trip.
Depending on the model of your power chair It may be necessary to disassemble it prior to transportation. In this case, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the table to aid airline personnel who will handle your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any detachable accessories before you travel to the airport and also to ensure that all the controls are working properly.
Once you arrive at an airport the electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and then stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging you a fee to stow assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for passengers who have disabilities, as it allows them to save money.
Once the plane is in the air, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your powered wheelchair to one that is able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you will be able to board the plane, and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as possible, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric wheelchair can seem daunting, but with careful planning and adhering to guidelines, it is possible to experience the joy of exploring new destinations with ease. The most important thing to keep in mind 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 people with mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, but it is important to follow the policies of your airline regarding transporting and stowing your chair on the airplane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact the airline prior to your travels to inquire about their policy and to get any questions answered.
Most airlines allow you to bring an electric wheelchair on your flight as provided it's prepared for travel. Some airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a physician's letter before they will allow you to travel with your electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also demand that you disassemble the battery-powered part of your chair, and place it in an enclosure that is protected.
Get to the airport at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to departure. Bring any documentation you might need to the airport, like your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will speed up the process of checking in and will make sure that there is no confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.
When you reach the ticket counter of your airline or at the gate, be sure to be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Explain your wheelchair and any other accessories you may need like seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage or if it will be transferred to the aircraft using an adapted cart. If you're taking a transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, you should try to book a direct flight, which will reduce the number of times that your equipment is moved between different locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo compartment along with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment arrives damaged, you must take a picture of it prior to leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.