Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several things to consider when traveling with powered chairs. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you a lot of questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have all this information in your possession prior to you head to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that comply with the air travel regulations.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stowed on planes. They typically come with a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stowed underneath the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore, they will be able to move on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or muddy roads. They may also have a patent-pending power drive system that enables them to navigate in tight spaces, or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate to board. However, it is essential to contact them ahead of time to make sure they are aware of your needs and confirm that they can meet those requirements. Some airlines require you to be at least an hour before the departure time you have scheduled, which is important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes for the stowage and storage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is limited and it's first come, first serve. They also require that any extra batteries be checked as part of the scooter or wheelchair, because federal regulations require they must be removed from the device unless it is equipped with an effective 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 request that you check-in an hour prior to your flight time so that they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other information regarding your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure comfortable and safe travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold, and they conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can assist you in planning your travel itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair for safety purposes and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed and that it is stowed upright.
Depending on the airline you use, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following information: your name address, number and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it should become lost or damaged during your trip. You may also want to think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that help you remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure to ensure proper equipment storage. If you are able you can arrive earlier than two hours before the time you plan to depart. This is particularly important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and allows the airline representative ample time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you travel to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during your flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for any damages from the airline. You should also think about bringing cushions for your seats, so that the flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Seat cushions are especially important when you travel for more than an hour. They reduce the pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline can be daunting. Traveling with a power chair is possible with the right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, speak to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best method to check in your chair, whether it is at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour before your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure it is safely stowed to be ready for your trip.
Based on the power chair you have It could be necessary for you to disassemble it before transportation. In this situation it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the table to aid airline employees who handle your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair, including the owner's manual or warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any detachable accessories before you leave for the airport and also to ensure that all chairs electric controls are working properly.
Once you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and then stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging an additional fee to stow assistive devices, like power wheelchairs. This is a wonderful benefit for those with disabilities as it helps them avoid costly expenses.
After the plane has landed, an airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to slide into the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you will be able to get off the plane and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as you can, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It might be difficult to travel in an electric chair, but with right planning and following the rules you website will be able to enjoy exploring new locations. It is crucial to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to travel with the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. If you have mobility scooters or wheelchairs could make your trip more enjoyable. However, it's essential to follow the airline's policies regarding the use of your chair and amazon power chairs storage it on the plane. Contact the airline here in advance to learn about their policies on power chairs and to ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, as that you prepare it properly to travel. Some airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a physician's letter before they will allow you to travel with your powered wheelchair. Some airlines may also demand that you disassemble the battery-powered portion of your chair, and place it in a protective case.
When you arrive at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours before the time of departure to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's important to bring any documentation, such as the owner's manual as well as any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid to the airport. This will speed up check-in process and avoid confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
Upon arriving at the ticket counter or gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Explain the kind of wheelchair you own and any necessary accessories, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be storing your wheelchair in a special cart or checking it for storage. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book an express flight to reduce the number times your equipment is moved between locations.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane it will be stored in the cargo compartment along with your checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines indoor electric wheelchair to charge you extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair the same way they would with your luggage. Take a picture of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.