Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few things to consider when traveling with an electric chair. The airport staff and airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to handle it.
Make sure you have all of this information at hand before you leave for 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 are endorsed by airlines are able to be safely transported and stowed on planes. The FAA can approve them for travel on planes, and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. Additionally they'll be able to move on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or roads that are muddy. They can also be equipped with a unique drive system which allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter to the boarding gate. It is however important to contact them ahead of time to ensure they are aware of your needs and confirm that they can meet your needs. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour ahead of the time of departure This is particularly important during busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. This space is limited and operates on the basis of first-come-first-serve. Federal regulations also require that all batteries added to the system be checked by the wheelchair or scooter. They must be shut off unless they are specifically designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to you bring electric wheelchairs or scooters on their flights. They also require to check-in one hour before your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions as well as other useful details about your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure safe and convenient travel. These power chairs can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline standards for battery size handling, stowage, and handling. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines require you to take the wheelchair's battery out of the way to ensure safety and put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed, and it is stowed upright.
Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, address, your number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment if it is lost or damaged during your travels. You may also consider purchasing aftermarket slings like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that allow you to remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airline and airport personnel.
You should arrive at the airport 2 hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. 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 earlier and gives plenty of time for the airline representative to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Before you leave, take a picture of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged on the flight. This will give you the leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for any damages. You should also consider bringing a seat cushion with you to ensure that your flight is as relaxing as possible for you. The use of a cushion for your seat is especially important when you travel for longer than an hour, because this will minimize pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, getting on a plane is a daunting prospect. Traveling with a wheelchair electric scooter power chair is feasible with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Speak to an airline representative before booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best method to check in your chair whether at the ticket counter or the cheapest electric wheelchairs gate. In either case, arriving one hour prior to your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure it is safely stored to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the type of power chair you own It may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. In this case it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the table to aid airline personnel who will handle your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair, including the owner's manual or warranty information. Also, remove any removable accessories and ensure whether all controls function before you leave for the airport.
When you arrive at an airport the electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and stowed. The airlines are not allowed to charging you a cost to store assistive devices like electric wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for people with disabilities since it helps them avoid unnecessary costs.
Once the plane is in the air at the airport, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your power wheelchair to one that is able to slide in the aisle of the aircraft. You will then be able to disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as is possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
A trip with an electric chair can be intimidating, but with proper planning and adherence to guidelines, you can be able to experience the joy of exploring new destinations easily. It is important to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you won't be able to travel with the freedom it offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be very stressful for people who suffer from mobility issues. If you're using a wheelchair or a scooter could make your trip more enjoyable. However, it is essential to follow the airline's policies regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact the airline prior to your departure to inquire about their policies and ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to take a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight, so lightweight wheelchairs electric you've prepared it for travel. Some airlines might require you to recharge the batteries before boarding, and some will need to have a doctor's recommendation on file prior to being able to let you fly here with your power chair. Some airlines website may also require you to remove the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair and place it in a protective case.
Get to the airport at least two hours before your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, like your owner's manual or assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up check-in process and help avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
Upon arriving at the airline's ticket counter or gate, make sure to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Explain the kind of wheelchair you own and any necessary accessories like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be placing your wheelchair in a specific cart or examining it for storage. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book an express flight to reduce 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 does not permit airlines to charge you extra to store your scooter or wheelchair just as they would with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, be sure to capture a photo prior to leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.