Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are many things to take into consideration. The staff at the airport and airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to use it.
Make sure you have all of these details in hand prior to you travel to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and stowed securely on airplanes. The FAA can approve them for travel on planes, and they can be kept under the plane as checked baggage. Additionally they'll be able to move on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or roads that are muddy. They can also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending that permits them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the boarding gate. However, it is important to contact them prior to time to ensure that they are aware of your needs and to confirm they can meet those needs. Certain airlines require you to be at least one hour prior to your departure time, which is 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 on an initial-come first-serve basis. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair, because federal regulations require they must be removed from the device unless the chair is equipped with a safe design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour prior to your flight so that they can ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. They also request to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent details about your mobility or power chair. scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed for secure and comfortable travel. These power chairs can be folded and are in line with airline standards for battery size and handling, as well as stowage. If you are planning to fly with your airline of choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can help you plan your itinerary and provide you with the latest information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety and then place it into a carryon bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that the battery is secured in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, address, your telephone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it is lost or mishandled during your journey. You might also think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which allow you to remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airline and airport personnel.
You should arrive at the airport 2 hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. If you are able be there earlier than two hours before your departure time. This is especially crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This allows you to check in earlier and gives plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you leave and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during your flight. This will give you possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for any damages. You should also think about bringing a seat cushion with you, so that the flight is as relaxing as possible for you. A seat cushion is essential for flights that last longer than an hour, because this will minimize pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be a daunting task. But, with the right preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, flying with your power chair is attainable.
Contact an airline representative prior to making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best way to check-in your chair whether at the ticket counter or the gate. In either case, arriving one hour before your flight is recommended. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and ensure it is safely stored for your journey.
Based on the model of power chair you own, it may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. If this is the case, it's beneficial to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions on hand to help the airline employees handling your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair, such as the owner's manual as well as warranty information. You should also cheapest electric wheelchairs remove any accessories that are removable and ensure whether all controls function before you leave for the airport.
Once you are at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the airplane. The airlines are prohibited from charging you an additional fee to stow assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is a great benefit for those with disabilities as it helps them avoid unnecessary costs.
Once the plane is in the air, an airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft. You will then be able to get off the plane and your power wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric chair can be daunting, but with the right planning and adherence to guidelines, it is possible to experience the joy of exploring new destinations easily. The most important thing to remember is that if not comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that travel offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for passengers who suffer from mobility problems. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the experience less stressful for you, but it's important to adhere to the guidelines of your airline for bringing and stowing your chair on board the plane. Contact the airline in advance to inquire about their policy regarding power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring an electric wheelchair on your flight as you've prepared it for travel. Certain 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 fly with a electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also require that you remove the battery powered portion of your chair, and place it into an enclosure that is protected.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before flight. Bring any documentation you may require to the airport, like your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you reach the airline ticket counter or gate, make sure you be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Discuss your wheelchair and any 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 plane using an adapted cart. If you're going to transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, you should try to book a direct flight, which will minimize the amount of times your equipment will be transferred between different locations.
Once your wheelchair is in the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment along with your checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra fees for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. If your equipment arrives damaged, you must take a picture of it before leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.