Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many things to consider when traveling with an electric chair. Airport and airline staff will ask you many questions regarding your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.
Be sure to have all these details in hand prior to you travel to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and safely stowed on airplanes. The FAA will approve them for use on flights, and they can be stored in the airplane as checked baggage. Additionally, they will be able to maneuver on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or roads that are muddy. They can also be equipped with a patented drive system that permits them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter to the boarding gate. It is crucial to contact the airline in advance to make sure they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they are able to meet them. Certain airlines require that you arrive one hour prior to your departure time which is essential during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is limited and operated on the basis of first-come-first-serve. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected in conjunction with 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 accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also require to check-in one hour prior to your flight time to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions as well as other useful information about your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed for comfortable and safe travel. These power chairs are made to fold and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and 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 details regarding battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety purposes and place it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is securely tucked away in a upright position.
Based on your airline or airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following information such as your name address, number and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event that it is stolen or mishandled on your trip. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will help you remain in your chair while you travel with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure to ensure proper equipment storage. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better, especially 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.
Take a picture of your wheelchair prior to traveling. This can be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for damages. You should consider bringing a seat cushion to make your flight as comfortable as possible. Using a seat cushion is especially important when you travel for more than an hour, since this will minimize pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane is an overwhelming experience. But, with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, air travel with your power chair is possible.
Before booking your flight, talk to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They'll be able to help you navigate in the right direction, whether you prefer to make your seat at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour prior to your flight is recommended. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and make sure that it is safely stored to be ready for your trip.
Based on the model of chair you own, it may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. In this instance it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the table to aid airline personnel who will handle your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair, including the owner's manual or warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out website any detachable accessories before you go to the airport and to ensure all the controls are working properly.
Once you arrive at the airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and stowed. The airlines are not allowed to charging you a fee to stow assistive devices, like power wheelchairs. This is a great feature for those with disabilities as it helps them avoid costly expenses.
A representative from the airline will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit down the aircraft aisle website when the plane arrives. Then, you will be able to disembark, and your power wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It might be difficult to travel in an electric chair, but with right planning and following the rules you will be able to enjoy exploring new places. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if uncomfortable in your chair, you'll never be able to enjoy the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for those with mobility issues. If you're using an electric or wheelchair, it can make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's electric powered wheelchair guidelines regarding bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to inquire about their policy on power chairs, and to ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring an electric chair on your flight, so provided you prepare it properly to travel. Some airlines require that you charge the batteries prior to taking off and others will need a doctor's letter before they will allow you to fly with your power wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require that you take down the battery-powered portion of your chair, and then place it in an enclosure that is protected.
Get to the airport at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to flight. It's important to bring any documentation, like your owner's manual or instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and can make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
If you are at the airline ticket counter or gate, make sure to explain your mobility needs clearly. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any other accessories you may require for example, sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or if it will be transferred to the plane using a specialized cart. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book a direct flight to minimize the amount of times your equipment is moved between locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment along with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. Take a photo of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.