Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are several aspects to be considered. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you a lot of questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have all of 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 meet air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and stowed securely on planes. electric wheelchair for handicapped will typically have an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stored under the plane as checked luggage. In addition, they will be able to navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or muddy roads. They could also be fitted with a drive system that is patent-pending which allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the gates for boarding. 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 that you arrive at least an hour prior to your scheduled departure, which is especially important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is limited and on the basis of first-come-first-serve. The federal regulations also require that all batteries added to the system be inspected by a scooter or wheelchair. They must be disconnected unless they are designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also request that you check in one hour prior to your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get assembly/disassembly information and other helpful details about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed for safe and convenient travel. They can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline standards 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. They can assist you in preparing your itinerary and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety. You can then put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed, and that it is stored upright.
Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, address, your telephone number, and the wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment in case it is lost or damaged during your trip. You might also think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that allow you to remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airport and airline personnel.
You should always arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that the proper stowage of your equipment is done. Arriving earlier than this is even better if possible, especially during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and provides ample time for the airline representative to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you leave and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you ability to seek compensation from the airline for damages. It is also advisable to bring a seat cushion with you so that your journey is as comfortable as possible for you. A seat cushion is essential for flights that will last over an hour, as it reduces pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline can be intimidating. But, with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, traveling with your power chair is possible.
Contact an airline representative prior to making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They will be able to guide you in the best direction, regardless of whether you prefer to make your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour prior to your flight is recommended. This gives the airline ample time to inspect your equipment and ensure that it will be stowed safely to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the type of chair you own It could be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. In this case it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly hand to assist the airline personnel who will handle your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance information 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 go to the airport, and to make sure all controls are working properly.
When you arrive at the airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and stowed. The airlines are not allowed to charging you an additional fee to stow assistive devices like power wheelchairs. This is a great benefit for passengers who have disabilities, as they can avoid costly expenses.
After the plane has landed in the air, a representative from the airline will be capable of transferring you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to fit in the aisle of the aircraft. You can then disembark and your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the nearest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft or at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
Traveling with an electric wheelchair can seem intimidating, but with proper planning and adherence to guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new places easily. The most important thing to remember is that if not comfortable moving around in your chair, you will not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that travel offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for people who have mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, but it's essential to follow the policies of your airline regarding the transportation and storage of your chair on board the airplane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact your airline prior to your departure to ask about their policy and ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, so provided you prepare it properly to travel. Some airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a doctor's letter before they will allow you to fly with your powered wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered portion of your chair and put it in a case that is protected.
When you arrive at the airport, make sure you arrive at least two hours before the time of departure to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. Bring any documentation you might need to the airport, including your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will help speed up the check-in process and can make sure that there is no confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.
Upon arriving at the airline's ticket counter or gate, make sure to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Discuss your wheelchair and any accessories you may require for example, sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether they will be storing your wheelchair in a separate cart or checking it for stowage. If you're transferring to the plane using your electric wheelchair, try to book a direct flight, which will cut down on the number of times your equipment is moved between locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment as checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of your wheelchair or scooter, the same way they would with your luggage. Take a photograph of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.