Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many things to consider when traveling with powered chairs. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you a lot of questions regarding your chair's dimensions and battery type as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information ready prior to your trip to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA can approve them for travel on planes and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. They can also maneuver on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration stripes roads that are muddy or brick. They may also have a patented power drive system that permits them to move in tight spaces or lifts.
Airlines will provide assistance with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter to the boarding gate. However, it is important to contact them ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of your requirements and confirm that they can meet those needs. Certain airlines require you to arrive at least an hour prior to your departure time, 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 it's first come first served. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair, because federal regulations require they must be removed from the device unless it is equipped with an effective design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask to check-in one hour prior to your flight time to ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other information about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure secure and comfortable travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold, and they meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling, and storage. If you are planning to fly with your airline of preference, you should contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist in planning your itinerary and give you the most current information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Some airlines ask that you remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that the battery is secured in a straight position.
Depending on the airline you use depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, address, your number, and your wheelchair model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it is lost or mishandled during your trip. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will allow you to remain in your chair while you travel with airport personnel and airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. Arriving earlier than this is even better especially during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This lets you check in earlier and gives ample time for the airline representative to assist you with stowing your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair before you travel. portable electric wheelchair serves as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will help you in pursuing compensation for the damages from the airline. It is also advisable to bring cushions for your seats, so that the flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights lasting over an hour. They reduce pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.
Check-In
The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline may be intimidating. Traveling with a power chair is feasible with right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Before booking your flight, speak to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best way to check into your seat whether at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, it is advised to arrive at least an hour before your flight. This gives the airline ample time to inspect your equipment and ensure it is safely stored for your trip.
Depending on the kind of power chair you own It may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. If this is the case, it is helpful to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions in order to aid the airline employees handling your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair, like the owner's manual as well as warranty information. You should also take off any removable items and check that all controls are functioning before you depart for the airport.
Once you are at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you a fee to stow assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is a wonderful benefit for passengers with disabilities, because it can help them avoid costly expenses.
Once the plane is in the air in the air, a representative from the airline will be in a position to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that is able to slide into the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you will be able to disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as is possible, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It might be difficult to travel with an electric chair, but with the proper planning and following the guidelines, you can enjoy exploring new places. It is crucial to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it offers.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for people who have mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, but it's important to adhere to your airline's policies for bringing and stowing your chair on the plane. Contact the airline ahead of time to inquire about their policy on power chairs, and to inquire about any questions.
Most airlines allow you to bring an electric chair on your flight, as provided you prepare it correctly to travel. Certain airlines might require you to discharge the batteries before boarding, and some may require you to have a doctor's note on file before they will allow you to fly using your power chair. Certain airlines may also require you to disassemble the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair and place it in a protective case.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, such as your owner manual and any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid, to the airport. This will speed up check-in process and avoid confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
When you reach the ticket counter of your airline or gate, be sure to communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Be sure to describe the type of wheelchair you have and any other accessories you may require like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or whether it will be transported to the plane using a specialized cart. If you're taking a transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to make a direct flight which will cut down on the number of times that your equipment will be moved between locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo compartment with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. Take a picture of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.