Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several aspects to take into consideration when traveling with powered chairs. The staff at the airport and the airline will inquire about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to handle it.
Make sure you have these details prepared before you travel to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with the regulations for air travel.
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. The FAA will approve them for use on flights and they can be kept under the plane as checked baggage. Additionally, they will be able to move on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or roads that are muddy. They may also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending which allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the boarding gates. It is essential to contact the airline prior to your departure to ensure they are aware of any special needs and to confirm that they are able to meet them. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of the time of departure This is particularly important during busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes that allows for the stowage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. This space is limited and it's first come first served. They also require that any extra batteries be checked as part of the scooter or wheelchair since federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless it is equipped with a safe design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask that you check in an hour before your flight, to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions and other helpful information regarding your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to offer a safe and convenient method of travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling, and stowage. If you are planning to fly with your airline of preference, you should contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These experts can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines ask that you remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals aren't exposed, and that it is stowed upright.
Depending on the airline you use, you may need to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, your address, your number, and your wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it gets lost or is damaged during your travels. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will help you remain in your seat during transfers with airport personnel and airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure to ensure proper equipment storage. If possible be there at least two hours earlier than your departure time. This is especially important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This lets you check in early and provides plenty of time for the airline representative to assist you with stowing your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair prior to traveling. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage in pursuing compensation for the damages from the airline. It is also advisable to bring a seat cushion with you, so that the flight is as comfortable as it can be for you. A seat cushion is particularly important when you travel for over an hour, as it reduces pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, getting on a plane could be a daunting prospect. Air travel with a power chair is feasible with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, speak to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can help you navigate in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to check-in your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour prior to your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure that it's safely stowed for your trip.
Depending on the model of your power chair, it may be necessary for you to disassemble it before transport. In this instance it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the table to aid airline employees who handle your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair, including the owner's manual as well as warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable accessories before you leave for the airport and also to ensure that all of the controls are working properly.
When you arrive at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. Airlines are not allowed to charge you extra to store assistive devices, like electric chairs. This is a great benefit for passengers with disabilities as it allows them to save money.
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 fit down the aircraft aisle. Then, you will be able to disembark, and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as is possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric chair can be daunting, but with careful planning and adherence to guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new destinations with ease. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if not comfortable moving around in your chair, you will not be able to fully take advantage of the freedom that travel offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be very stressful for people who suffer discount electric wheelchairs from mobility issues. If you have an electric or wheelchair could make your trip more enjoyable. However, it's crucial to adhere to the airline's guidelines for the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact the airline before your trip to ask about their policy and get any questions answered.
Many airlines will allow passengers to bring an electric wheelchair on your flight, so long as it's properly prepared for travel. Certain airlines may require you to recharge the batteries prior to boarding and some may require you to have a doctor's recommendation in order to allow you to fly with your power chair. Some airlines may also demand that you remove the battery-powered portion of your chair, and place it into an enclosure that is protected.
When you arrive at the airport, make 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 documents you require to the airport, such as your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will speed up check-in process and avoid confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the ticket counter of your airline or gate, make sure to explain your mobility needs clearly. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any accessories you may need, such as seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be placing your wheelchair in a separate cart or examining it for storage. If you're transferring to the plane with your electric wheelchair, try to take a direct flight which will cut down on the number of times your equipment will be moved between locations.
Once your wheelchair is in the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment, just like checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra to store your scooter or wheelchair the same way they would with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, be sure to take a picture of it prior to leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.