Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are many things to take into consideration. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you a lot of questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have these details ready before you go to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that are compliant with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and stowed securely on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for travel on planes, and they can be kept under the plane as checked baggage. Additionally, they will be able to navigate on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or muddy roads. They may also have a patented power drive system that enables them to move in tight spaces or lifts.
Airlines will assist you with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter until the gate to board. It is essential to call the airline ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of any special needs and to confirm that they can meet the requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour before the departure time you have scheduled, which is important during busy travel periods.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. This space is limited and is first come, first served. The federal regulations also demand that all batteries added to the system be checked with the scooter or wheelchair. They must be removed unless they are specifically designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair on their flights. They also require to check-in at least an hour prior to your flight time to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful information about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed for safe and convenient travel. These power chairs can be folded and comply with airline standards for battery size handling, stowage, and handling. If you plan to travel with your airline of choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist you in planning your trip and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety and then place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals aren't exposed, and it is placed upright.
Depending on your airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following details including your name address, address, phone number and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it is stolen or mishandled during your journey. 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 at minimum two hours prior to the departure time you have scheduled to ensure that the proper storage of your equipment is done. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better if possible, especially during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and gives the representative of the airline plenty of time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you leave and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you ability to seek compensation from the airline in case of damages. You should also consider bringing cushions for your seats to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Seat cushions are especially important when you travel for more than an hour. They will reduce pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those who travel with an airline approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane is an intimidating experience. But, with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, flying with a power chair is feasible.
Speak to an airline representative prior to making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the best direction, regardless of whether you prefer to check-in your seat at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, it is recommended to arrive at least an hour before your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure that it is properly stowed for your trip.
Depending on the type of chair you own It may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. In this instance it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in hand to assist the airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. Also, take off any removable items and ensure that all controls work before you depart for the airport.
When you arrive at an airport your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and then stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra for the stowing of assistive devices like power chairs. This is a great feature for those with disabilities as it helps them save money.
Once the plane is in the air, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your power wheelchair to one that can fit down the aircraft aisle. Then, you can disembark, and your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible location to the aircraft door or at the jetbridge or the gate.
The idea of using an electric wheelchair may seem daunting, but with the right planning and adhering to the guidelines, it is possible to experience the joy of exploring new places without difficulty. It is essential to keep in mind that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to travel with the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for people with mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, but it's essential to follow your airline's policies for transporting and stowing your chair on board the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure amazon power chairs to contact the airline prior to your departure to inquire about their policies and to get any questions answered.
Most airlines will allow passengers to bring an electric wheelchair on your flight as long as it's properly prepared for travel. Certain airlines may require you to charge the batteries prior to boarding and some will need to have a doctor's note on file before they will allow you to fly with your power chair. Certain airlines may also require you to disassemble the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair and place it inside a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours prior to your departure time to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's important to bring any documentation, including the owner's manual as well as any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and can help avoid confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.
When you arrive at the counter for tickets or gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Discuss your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you may need like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair for stowage or if it will be transferred to the aircraft with an appropriate cart. If you're going to transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, try to take a direct flight which will reduce the amount of times your equipment will be transferred between different locations.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment, just like checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. Take a photo of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.