Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few things you should consider when traveling with an electric chair. The staff at the airport and at the airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions and battery type, as well as how to use it.
Make sure you have these details prepared before you travel to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved 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 stored under the plane as checked luggage. Additionally they'll be able to maneuver on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or muddy roads. They could also be fitted with a drive system that is patent-pending that permits them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the gates for boarding. However, it is essential to contact them prior to time to ensure they are aware of your needs and to confirm that they are able to meet your needs. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour before the departure time you have scheduled, which is important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of a wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is limited and operated on a first-come, first-serve basis. The federal regulations also demand that all batteries added to the system be checked with the scooter or wheelchair. They must be shut off unless they are specifically designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also request that you check in an hour before your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather assembly/disassembly information and other helpful details about your mobility wheelchair 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 can be folded and comply with airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in planning your travel plans and provide you with the latest information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines require you to take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is securely tucked away in a upright position.
Depending on your airline or airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following details: your name address, number, and model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it is lost or damaged during your trip. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will help you remain in your chair while you travel with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to the departure time you have scheduled to ensure that proper stowage of your equipment is completed. Being earlier than that is even better if possible particularly during busy holiday times or during 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, take a picture of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will help you in obtaining compensation for damages from the airline. You should consider bringing cushions to make the flight as comfortable as you possibly can. The use of a cushion for your seat is particularly important when you travel for over an hour, as it will reduce the pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane is an intimidating experience. But, with the right preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, traveling with your power chair is possible.
Before booking your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They will be able to guide you in the right direction, regardless of whether you prefer to make your seat at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it's recommended that you arrive at least one hour before your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to inspect your equipment and ensure it will be safely towed to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the type of chair you own It could be required to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it is helpful to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly available to assist airline employees handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any detachable items prior to you travel to the airport and also to ensure that all of the controls are in working order.
Once you arrive at the airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and stowed. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra fees to store assistive devices, such as power chairs. This is a wonderful benefit for passengers with disabilities, since it allows them to save money.
A representative from the airline will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that will fit on the aisle of the aircraft when the plane arrives. Then, you can disembark, and your wheelchair is returned to you at the shortest possible location to the door of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
It might be difficult to travel in an electric chair, but with the proper planning and following the guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new places. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you're uncomfortable in your chair, you will not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that traveling offers.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for people with mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, however it's essential 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, be sure to contact the airline prior to your departure to inquire about their policies and to get any questions answered.
Many airlines will allow you to take an electric wheelchair on your flight as you've prepared it for travel. Some airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will need a doctor's letter to allow you to fly with a power wheelchair. Some airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery powered portion of your wheelchair, and place it into a case that is safe.
Get to the airport at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that electric wheelchair chair your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your departure. Bring any documentation you may need to the airport, including your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will help speed up the check-in process and can help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
Upon arriving at the airline's ticket counter or gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility requirements. Discuss your wheelchair and any accessories you may require, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair for stowage or the possibility of transferring it to the plane using a specialized cart. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book an direct flight to cut down on the number of times your device is moved between different locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment, just like checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. If your equipment is damaged, be sure to capture a photo prior to leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.