Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several things you should consider when traveling with an electric chair. The staff at the airport and the airline will inquire about the dimensions of your chair, battery type, and how to handle it.
Make sure you have all this information in your possession prior to you head to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that are compliant with the requirements for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stowed on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for air travel and they can be stowed under the plane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to maneuver on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes, bricks or muddy roads. They may also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending that allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the gates for boarding. It is important to contact the airline in advance to ensure they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they can meet the requirements. Some airlines require you to be at least one hour prior to your departure time, which is important during busy travel periods.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is limited and is 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 be disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with a secure design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour before your flight, so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions and other helpful details about your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are made for safe and convenient travel. These power chairs can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline guidelines 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. These experts can help you plan your travel itinerary and provide you with the most current details regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines ask that you take the wheelchair's battery out of the way to ensure safety and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that the battery is securely tucked away in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you use or airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following details: your name address, address, phone number and model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment in case it should become lost or mishandled during your trip. You may want to buy aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will 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 proper stowage of your equipment is completed. Being earlier than that is even better if possible 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 assist you in stowing your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair before you travel. This can be used as proof in the event that your device gets damaged during the flight. This will help you in obtaining compensation for the damages from the airline. You should also consider bringing cushions for your seats, so that the flight is as relaxing as possible for you. Seat cushions are particularly important when you travel for more than an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline may be daunting. Air travel with a power chair is achievable with right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Before booking your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best way to check into your seat, whether it is at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour before your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure that it's safely stored for your trip.
Depending on the type of power chair you own 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 available to assist staff of the airline handling your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair, such as the owner's manual or warranty information. It is also recommended to remove any removable accessories and make sure that all controls work before you leave for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport, your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and then stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging you an additional fee to stow assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for passengers with disabilities as it allows them to avoid unnecessary costs.
Once the plane is in the air, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to slide in the aisle of the aircraft. You can then disembark and your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or at the gate.
Traveling with an electric wheelchair can seem intimidating, but with proper planning and adherence to guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the thrill of exploring new places without difficulty. 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 provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. If you're using a wheelchair or a scooter, it can make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's guidelines regarding taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline ahead of time to learn about their policies on power chairs, and to inquire about any questions.
Many airlines will allow passengers to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your trip as long as it's properly prepared for travel. Certain airlines might require you to recharge the batteries before boarding, and some will require you to have a doctor's recommendation on file before they will allow you to fly using your electric chair. Certain airlines may also require that you remove the battery powered portion of your chair and then place it in a case that is safe.
Once you're at the airport, make sure you arrive at least two hours prior to the time of departure to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documentation you may require to the airport, like your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will speed up the process of checking in and will make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
On arrival at the ticket counter or gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Explain the type of wheelchair you have and any other accessories you may require like cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair for stowage or whether it will be transported to the plane using an appropriate cart. If you're going to transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, try to take a direct flight which will cut down on the number of times your equipment will be transferred between various locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo area along with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair just as they would with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, make sure you take a picture of it before leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.