Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many things to consider when traveling with a powered chair. Airport and airline staff will ask you numerous questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have these details ready prior to your trip to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that are compliant with the requirements for air travel.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are able to be safely transported and stowed on planes. They typically come with an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stowed underneath the plane as checked luggage. In addition, they will be able to navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips, brick or roads that are muddy. They could also be equipped with a patented power drive system that allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the gates for boarding. However, it is essential to contact them ahead of time to ensure they are aware of your needs and to confirm that they are able to meet those needs. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour before your scheduled departure time, which is important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes that allows for the stowage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is limited and on the basis of first-come-first-serve. The federal regulations also demand that all batteries added to the system be inspected by a wheelchair or scooter. They must be disconnected unless they are specifically designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also request that you check in an hour before your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other information about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure comfortable and safe travel. These chairs are designed to fold and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and stowage. If you plan to travel with the airline of your choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist you in planning your trip and give you the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide you with instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety. You can then put it into a carryon bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is secured in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you use depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, address, your telephone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment if it should become lost or damaged during your trip. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will assist you in staying in your chair while you travel with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
You should arrive at at two hours before the departure time you have scheduled to ensure the proper storage of your equipment is done. Being earlier than that is even better particularly during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This allows you to arrive early and allows ample time for the airline representative to assist you with stowing your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair prior to travel. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you the possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for any damages. You should also consider bringing a seat cushion with you to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as possible for you. The use of a cushion for your seat is especially important when you travel for more than an hour, since it will reduce pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that is accepted by the airline can be daunting. However, with proper preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, flying with your power chair is feasible.
Before booking your flight, talk to an airline check here representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best way to check in your chair, whether it is at the ticket counter or the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour before your read more flight is suggested. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure that it's safely stored for your journey.
Depending on the type of chair you own It could be necessary to disassemble it for transport. If this is the case, it's helpful to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions on hand to help the airline employees handling your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair, including the owner's manual or warranty information. Also, remove any accessories that are removable and check whether all controls function before you leave for the airport.
Once you arrive at an airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and then stowed. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra for the stowing of assistive devices like power chairs. This is a great feature for those with disabilities because it can help them avoid costly expenses.
A representative from the airline can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can be able to fit into the aircraft aisle when the plane arrives. Then, you can disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the closest possible location to the aircraft door or at the jetbridge or at the gate.
Traveling with an electric chair can be intimidating, but with proper planning and adhering to the guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new locations without difficulty. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you are not comfortable in your chair, you'll never enjoy the freedom that traveling provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stress-inducing for you, but it's essential to follow your airline's policies for transporting and stowing your chair on board the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to learn about their policies regarding power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Most airlines allow passengers to bring an electric wheelchair on your flight, so long as it's properly prepared for travel. Certain airlines might require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and some will need to have a doctor's recommendation in order to allow you to fly with your electric chair. Some airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery-powered part of your wheelchair, and place it into a protective case.
Arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to your scheduled departure so that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to flight. Bring any documentation you might require to the airport, such as your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will help speed up the check-in process and can prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the counter for tickets or at the gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility requirements. Be sure to describe the kind of wheelchair you're using and any other accessories you may require, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or whether it will be transported to the aircraft using an adapted cart. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book an express flight to reduce the number of times your device is moved between different locations.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment as checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra fees for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. If your equipment is damaged, be sure to capture a photo before leaving the more info airport and immediately inform the airline.