Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are many things to take into consideration. The staff at the airport and at the airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have all of this information in your possession prior to you travel to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines can be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA can approve them for travel on planes and they can be stored in the airplane as checked baggage. Additionally, they will be able to maneuver on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips, brick or muddy roads. They may also be equipped with a patented drive system that allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the boarding gate. It is important to call the airline ahead of time to ensure they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate these requirements. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour before your scheduled departure, which is especially important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited and operates on an initial-come first-serve basis. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected as part of the wheelchair or scooter, because federal regulations require they are disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a secure design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when you bring an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require to check-in one hour before your flight so that they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful information regarding your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to offer a safe and convenient way to travel. These power chairs are made to fold and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and storage. If you're planning to travel 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 up-to-date information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines ask that you take the wheelchair's battery out of the way 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 safely placed upright.
Depending on the airline you use or airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following details such as your name, address, phone number and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it gets lost or is damaged during your travels. You may also consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that allow you to remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport 2 hours prior to your departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. Being earlier than that is even better particularly during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This allows you to arrive early and allows plenty of time for the airline representative to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you travel to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage in obtaining compensation for any damages from the airline. It is also advisable to bring an extra cushion for your seat, so that the flight is as relaxing as possible for you. The use of a cushion for your seat is particularly important for flights that will last longer than an hour, because it reduces the pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline may be a daunting task. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is possible with the right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Speak to an airline representative before booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They will be able to guide you in the best direction, regardless of whether you prefer to get your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour prior to your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it's more info safely and properly stored to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the model of your power chair, it may be necessary for you to disassemble the chair prior to transportation. If this is the case, it is important to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions available to assist airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. You should also remove any removable accessories and ensure that all controls work before leaving for the airport.
Once you are at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. The airlines are not allowed to charging an additional cost to store assistive devices like electric wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for people with disabilities as it helps them avoid costly expenses.
Once the plane is in the air in the air, a representative from the airline will be capable of transferring you from your powered wheelchair to one that is able to slide in the aisle of the aircraft. You will then be able to board the plane, and your wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as is possible in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
It might be difficult to travel with an electric chair, but with right planning and following the rules you will be able to enjoy exploring new destinations. It is essential to keep in mind that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to enjoy the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for people who suffer from mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, but it is important to follow the policies of your airline regarding the transportation and storage of your chair on the airplane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your departure to inquire about their policy and ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your trip as you've prepared it for travel. Some airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a doctor's letter before they will allow you to fly with a powered wheelchair. Some airlines will also require you to remove the battery-powered part of your chair and then place it in a case that is protected.
Arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your departure. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, like the owner's manual as well as any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will make it easier for the check-in process and make sure that there is no confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.
When you arrive at the ticket counter or at the gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility requirements. Explain 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 examining your wheelchair for stowage or the possibility of transferring it to the aircraft using a specialized cart. If you're going to transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, you should try to book a direct flight, which will reduce the amount of times your equipment will be moved between different locations.
Once your wheelchair is in the plane it will be stored in the cargo compartment as checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you extra to store your wheelchair or scooter, just as they would with your luggage. Take a photograph of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.