Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are several things to take into consideration. The airport staff and airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to use it.
Make sure you have these details ready prior to your trip to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and safely stowed on planes. The FAA will approve them for travel on planes and they can be stored in the airplane as checked baggage. Furthermore, they will be able to move on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or roads that are muddy. They can also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending that permits them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the boarding gates. It is important to contact the airline in advance to ensure they are aware of any special needs and to confirm that they can meet them. electric powered wheelchairs require you to be at least an hour before your departure time which is essential during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is limited and is first come, first serve. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected in conjunction with the wheelchair or scooter, as federal regulations require that 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 bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour prior to your flight time so that they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather assembly/disassembly information and other helpful information about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to offer the most secure and comfortable method of travel. These chairs are designed to fold, and they meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling, and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can help you plan 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 that you remove the battery from your chair for safety purposes and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is secured in a upright position.
Depending on your airline or airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following information including your name address, number, and model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it is lost or damaged during your travels. You might also consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will help you remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport 2 hours prior to your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. Being earlier than that is even better if possible especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This allows you to arrive early and allows plenty of time for the airline representative to assist you with stowing your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair prior to travel. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged on the flight. This will help you in pursuing compensation for the damages from the airline. Consider bringing along a seat cushion to make the trip as comfortable as you can. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights that last more than an hour. They reduce the pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline may be intimidating. Air travel with a power chair is feasible with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Talk to an airline representative prior to making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to get your seat at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, it is advised to arrive at least one hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure that it's safely and properly stored to be ready for your trip.
Based on the model of power chair you own It could be required to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it is beneficial to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to help the airline personnel handling your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair, like the owner's manual and warranty information. You should also take off any removable items and check that all controls work before you depart for the airport.
Once you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the airplane. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra fees for stowing assistive devices such as power chairs. This is a huge benefit for passengers with disabilities as they can save money.
A representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that will fit on the aircraft aisle when the plane arrives. Then, you can disembark, and your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the shortest possible location to the door of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or the gate.
A trip with an electric chair can be intimidating, but with proper planning and adhering to guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new places easily. It is important to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to enjoy the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for people who suffer from mobility issues. If you're traveling with mobility scooters or wheelchairs can make your experience more enjoyable. However, it's crucial to adhere to the airline's policies regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact your airline prior to your departure to inquire about their policies and to get any questions answered.
Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair for your flight, as provided you prepare it properly for travel. Some airlines require that you charge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will require a physician's letter prior to allowing you to fly with your powered wheelchair. Some airlines may also require that you take down the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair, and place it into an enclosure that is protected.
When you arrive at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for 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 and prevent confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
On arrival at the ticket counter or gate, make sure to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Discuss your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you may need like seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be keeping your wheelchair in a specific cart or examining it for storage. If you're taking a transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, make sure to book a direct flight, which will minimize the amount of times your equipment is moved between various locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo area along with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. Take a photograph of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.