Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many things you should consider when traveling with an electric chair. The staff at the airport and airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to use it.
Make sure you have all this information in your possession prior to you leave for the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that meet the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines can be safely transported and stored on planes. They will typically have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to maneuver on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration stripes, bricks or muddy roads. They can also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending which allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the boarding gate. It is important to contact the airline prior to your departure to ensure they are aware of any specific needs and to confirm that they are able to meet them. Certain airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to your scheduled departure This is particularly important during 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 is first come first served. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected in conjunction with the wheelchair or scooter, because federal regulations require they are disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a secure design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask to check-in at least an 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 airport personnel can gather assembly/disassembly information and other helpful information about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are made for safe and convenient travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold, and they meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in planning your trip and give you the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also give you assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety purposes and place it into a carryon bag. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is secured in a upright position.
Based on your airline depending on your airline, you might be required to label your wheelchair with the following details such as your name, address, phone number and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it is stolen 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 and airline personnel.
You should arrive at at least two hours prior to the departure time you have scheduled to ensure that the proper stowage of your equipment is accomplished. If you are able be there earlier than two hours before the time you plan to depart. This is particularly important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This lets you check in early and provides plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you leave and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during the flight. This will give you the possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for any damages. Consider bringing along a seat cushion to make the flight as comfortable as you can. Cushions for seats are essential for flights that last more than an hour. They reduce the pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
For those who travel using an approved airline electric wheelchair, getting on a plane is a daunting prospect. Traveling with a power chair is feasible with right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Talk to an airline representative prior to 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 it is at the ticket counter or the gate. In either case, arriving one hour prior to your flight is suggested. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and ensure it will be safely towed for your journey.
Based on the power chair you have It may be necessary for you to disassemble it before it is transported. In this instance, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to assist the airline employees who handle your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair, such as the owner's manual or warranty information. You should also take off any removable items and ensure whether all controls function before you depart for the airport.
Once you are at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you an additional cost to store assistive devices, like power wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for those who have disabilities, as they can avoid unnecessary costs.
A representative from the airline can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that will fit on the aisle of the aircraft when the plane lands. Then, you will be able to board the plane, and your power wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as is 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. It is crucial to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to travel with the freedom it affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be extremely stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, however it is important to follow the guidelines of your airline for bringing and stowing your chair on the airplane. 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 allow passengers to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your trip as provided it's prepared for travel. Certain airlines may require you to discharge the batteries before boarding, and some will require you to have a medical note on file prior to being able to allow you to fly using your electric chair. Some airlines may also demand that you disassemble the battery powered portion of your wheelchair, and then place it in a protective case.
Get to the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before flight. Bring any documentation you may need to the airport, like your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will speed up check-in and prevent confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you reach the airline ticket counter or gate, make sure to be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Be sure to describe the type of wheelchair you have and any other accessories you may require like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage or the possibility of transferring it to the plane using a specialized cart. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book an express power chairs for disabled flight to reduce the amount of times your equipment is moved between locations.
Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo compartment along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you extra to store your scooter or wheelchair like they do with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, you must take a picture of it before leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.