Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few things to consider when traveling with a powered chair. Airport and airline staff will ask you numerous questions about your chair's dimensions, battery type and how it should be handled.
Make sure you have all of this information in your possession prior to you travel to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and stowed securely on airplanes. They typically come with an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stowed underneath the plane as checked luggage. Additionally they'll be able to navigate on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips brick or roads that are muddy. They can also be equipped with a unique drive system 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 up to the gates for boarding. However, it is important to contact them prior to time to ensure that 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 ahead of your departure time This is particularly 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 is first come, first serve. The federal regulations also require that any additional batteries be checked with the scooter or wheelchair. They must be shut off unless they are specifically designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also request to check-in at least an hour prior to your flight time to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather assembly/disassembly information and other helpful information about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed for comfortable and safe travel. These electric chairs can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and stowage. If you're planning 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 help you plan your itinerary and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety and then place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is securely tucked away in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you use depending on your airline, you might be asked to label your wheelchair with the following details such as your name, address, phone number, and model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment in case it gets lost or damaged during your travels. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will help you remain in your chair during transfers with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled 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 check in early and gives the airline representative plenty of time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair before you travel. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will help you in pursuing compensation for damages from the airline. You should consider bringing cushions to make the trip as comfortable as possible. A seat cushion is particularly important when you travel for more than an hour, since it will reduce the pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline can be intimidating. Traveling with a power chair is possible with the proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Before booking your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the best direction, no matter if you prefer to make your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour before your flight is suggested. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and ensure that it will be stowed safely for your trip.
Depending on the kind of chair you own It could be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. In this case it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly hand to assist the airline personnel who will handle your chair. Attach long-lasting electric wheelchairs or maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any accessories that can be removed prior to when you leave for the airport and also to ensure that all the controls are functioning properly.
When you arrive at the airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and then stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging you a fee to stow assistive devices like power wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for people with disabilities as they can save money.
A representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that will fit on the aisle of the aircraft when the plane lands. You can then disembark and your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the shortest possible location to the aircraft door, either at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
It might be difficult to travel in an electric chair, but with right planning and following the rules, you can enjoy exploring new places. The most important thing to remember is that if you're not comfortable moving around in your chair, you will never be able to enjoy the freedom that traveling offers.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for people who have mobility issues. If you have an electric or wheelchair could make your experience more enjoyable. However, it is crucial to adhere to the airline's policies regarding 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 prior to your travels to ask about their policy and to get any questions answered.
Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair for your flight, so long as you prepare it for travel. Certain airlines might require you to recharge the batteries prior to boarding and some will require you to have a doctor's note on file before they will allow you to fly with your motorized chair. Some airlines may also demand that you remove the battery powered portion of your chair and place it in a case that is safe.
When you arrive at the airport, make sure you arrive at least two hours before your scheduled departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, including your owner manual and any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up check-in process and avoid confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the ticket counter or gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Provide a description of your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you may need for example, seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage or if it will be transferred to the aircraft using a specialized cart. If you're taking a transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, make sure to make a direct flight which will cut down on the amount of times your equipment will be transferred between various locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment as checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. Take a photograph of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.