Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several aspects to take into consideration when traveling with a powered chair. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you many questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Be sure to have all these details in hand prior to you travel to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that comply with the requirements for air travel.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines can be safely transported and stowed on planes. They typically come with an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stowed underneath the plane as checked luggage. They will also be able maneuver on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes, bricks or muddy roads. They could also be equipped with a patent-pending power drive system that enables them to navigate in tight spaces, or lifts.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the boarding gates. It is important to call the airline ahead of time to ensure they are aware of any special needs and to confirm that they are able to meet these requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to your departure time which is crucial during busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage and storage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited and operated on an initial-come first-serve basis. They also require that any extra batteries be checked as part of the scooter or wheelchair, because federal regulations require they are disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with an effective design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to taking an electric wheelchair or scooter aboard their flights. They also request 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, as well as other pertinent information about your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed for comfortable and safe travel. These electric chairs can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline guidelines regarding battery size and handling, as well as stowage. If you plan to travel with the airline of your preference, you should contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist in planning your itinerary and give you the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines will require you to remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and put it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is safely stowed in a straight position.
Depending on the airline you fly with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, address, your phone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it gets lost or is mishandled during your journey. You may want to buy aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will help you remain in your seat during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport 2 hours before your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment storage. If you are able, arrive earlier than two hours prior to the time you plan to depart. This is especially important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This allows you to check in early read more and gives 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 wheelchair is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage in pursuing 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. The use of a cushion for your seat is particularly important when you travel for longer than an hour, because this will minimize pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those who travel using an approved airline electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane could be an overwhelming experience. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is feasible 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-in your chair whether at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour prior to your flight is recommended. This allows the airline plenty of time to check your equipment and make sure that it will be stowed safely for your journey.
Depending on your power chair, it may be necessary to disassemble the chair prior to transport. If this is the case, it is important to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions in order to aid the airline personnel handling your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair, like the owner's manual or warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable accessories before you leave for the airport, and to make sure all controls are in working order.
Once you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the aircraft. The airlines are not allowed to charging you a fee to stow assistive devices like electric wheelchairs. This is a wonderful benefit for passengers with disabilities, since it allows them to save money.
Once the plane is in the air at the airport, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to fit down the aircraft aisle. Then, you will be able to get off the plane and your wheelchair will here be check here returned to you close to the aircraft door as is possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with the proper planning and following the guidelines, you can enjoy exploring new locations. The most important thing to remember is that if not comfortable in your chair, you'll never be able to enjoy the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for people with mobility problems. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, but it's essential to follow the policies of your airline regarding transporting and stowing your chair on board the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact the airline before your trip to inquire about their policy and get any questions answered.
Many airlines will allow passengers to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight as provided it's prepared for travel. Certain airlines may require you to recharge the batteries prior to boarding and some will require you to have a medical note on file before they will allow you to fly using your motorized chair. Some airlines will also require you to remove the battery-powered component of your wheelchair and place it in a case that is protected.
Get to the airport at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your departure. It's recommended to bring any documentation, like your owner's manual or instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the airline ticket counter or gate, be sure to be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Explain your wheelchair and more info any other accessories you might require, such as seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage or whether it will be transported to the plane using a specialized cart. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book a direct flight to minimize the number times your equipment is moved between different locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment, just like checked baggage. The U.S. Department of more info Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment arrives damaged, you must capture a photo prior to leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.