Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few things you should consider when traveling with a powered chair. The staff at the airport and at the airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to use it.
Be sure to have all of these details in hand prior to you head to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that comply with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be carried and safely stowed on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for air travel and they can be stored in the airplane as checked baggage. They can also maneuver on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes, bricks or muddy roads. They can also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending that allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the gate to board. It is however important to contact them prior to time to make sure they are aware of your needs and to confirm that they are able to meet your needs. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour before your scheduled departure which is crucial in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. This space is limited, and it's first come, first serve. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected in conjunction with the scooter or wheelchair as federal regulations require that they be disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with an effective design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before bringing electric wheelchairs or scooters on their flights. They also ask that you check in an hour prior to your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful information about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are made for safe and convenient travel. These chairs are designed to fold up and meet 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. These representatives can assist you in planning your itinerary and give you the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety. You can then put 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 the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, your address, your number, and 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 on your trip. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to assist you in staying in your seat during transfers with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better, especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and allows the airline representative plenty of time to help you stow your chair.
Before you leave, take a picture of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during the flight. This will give you ability to seek compensation from the airline for any damages. You should consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to make your flight as comfortable as possible. Using a seat cushion is particularly important for flights that will last more than an hour, since this will minimize the pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, getting on a plane is an intimidating experience. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is achievable with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Contact an airline representative before booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can help you navigate in the right direction, whether you prefer to get your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, it is recommended that you arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to check your equipment and make sure that it will be safely towed for your trip.
Based on the model of power chair you have It may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it's helpful to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to help the staff of the airline handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any detachable items prior to you leave for the airport, and to make sure all controls are in working order.
When you arrive at the airport the electric website wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the aircraft. The airlines are prohibited from charging you a cost to store assistive devices like power wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for those with disabilities since it helps them avoid costly expenses.
A representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit down the aircraft aisle when the plane lands. After disembarking, your wheelchair is returned to you at the nearest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or the gate.
It might be difficult to travel in an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new locations. It is essential to keep in mind that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair, you won't be able to travel with the freedom it offers.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for people with mobility problems. Having a wheelchair or scooter can check here make the journey less stressful check here for you, however it's important to adhere to your airline's policies for transporting and stowing your chair on board the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to inquire about their policy regarding power chairs and to ask any questions.
Most airlines allow you to bring an electric wheelchair on your trip as you've prepared it for travel. Certain airlines might require you to discharge the batteries before boarding, and some will require you to have a doctor's recommendation on file prior to being able to allow you to fly with your power chair. Certain airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery powered portion of your chair, and then place it in a case that is safe.
Arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before flight. Bring any documentation you may require to the airport, such as your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will speed up check-in and prevent confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the airline's ticket counter or gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Be sure to describe the kind of wheelchair you're using and any accessories you require, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll travel electric wheelchair be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or if it will be transferred to the aircraft using an adapted cart. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book a direct flight to minimize the number of times your device is moved between locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment along with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines click here from charging extra to store your scooter or wheelchair, just as they would with your luggage. Take a photograph of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.