Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are a few aspects to be considered. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you a lot of questions regarding the dimensions of your chair, battery type and how it should be handled.
Make sure you have these details prepared before you travel to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with the air travel regulations.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stowed on planes. They usually have an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be tucked under the plane as checked luggage. Additionally, they will be able to maneuver on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or roads that are muddy. They may also have an exclusive power drive system that permits them to move in tight spaces or lifts.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the boarding gates. However, it is essential to contact them ahead of time to make sure they are aware of your needs and confirm that they can meet those needs. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour ahead of the time of departure, which is especially important during busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of a mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is not large enough and it's first come first served. They also require that any extra batteries be checked as part of the scooter or wheelchair because federal regulations require they be disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a safe design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask to check-in one hour before your flight so that they can 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 details about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure safe and convenient travel. These power chairs can be folded and comply with airline guidelines for battery size and handling, as well as stowage. If you're planning to fly with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can help you plan your itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date details regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals aren't exposed, and that it is placed upright.
Depending on your airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following information including your name, address, phone number, and model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it should become lost or damaged during your trip. You might also consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which allow you to remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airline and airport personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure proper stowage of your equipment is completed. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better if possible, especially during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and allows the representative of the airline plenty of time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you leave to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your device is damaged during your flight. This will give you leverage to pursue compensation from the airline in case of damages. It is also advisable to bring an extra cushion for your seat to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Cushions for seats are essential for flights lasting over an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, the process of boarding a plane can be a daunting prospect. But, with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, traveling using your electric chair is feasible.
Contact an airline representative prior to making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best way to check in your chair regardless of whether it's at the ticket counter or the 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 for your trip.
Depending on the type of power chair you have It may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. In this instance it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the go to help airline personnel who will handle your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any detachable items prior to you leave for the airport, and to make sure all the controls are working properly.
Once you are at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the airplane. The airlines aren't allowed to charging an additional cost to store assistive devices, such as power wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for passengers with disabilities, since it allows them to avoid unnecessary expenses.
A representative from the airline will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can be able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft once the plane arrives. You can then disembark and your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft or at the jetbridge or the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with the right planning and following guidelines you can have fun exploring new destinations. It is important to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to travel with the freedom it affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for people who have mobility issues. If you're traveling with a wheelchair or a scooter can make your experience more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's policies regarding taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline in advance to learn about their policies on power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Most airlines allow you to take a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight as long as it's properly prepared for travel. Some airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a physician's letter before they will allow you to fly with a powered wheelchair. Some airlines may also require that you take down the battery-powered part of your wheelchair, and then place it in a case that is safe.
Once you're at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time so that your airline has enough time here to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. Bring any documents you require to the airport, including your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in process and avoid confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
If you are at the ticket counter of your airline or at the gate, be sure you communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Discuss your wheelchair and any other accessories you may need like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair for stowage or the possibility of transferring it to the plane using a specialized cart. If you're going to transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to make a direct flight which will minimize the number of times your equipment is moved between small power chair various locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane it will be stored in the cargo compartment as checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you extra to store your scooter or wheelchair the here same way they would with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, be sure to take a picture of it before leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.