Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are several things to consider. The staff at the airport and at the airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to use it.
Make sure you have all this information in your possession prior to you head to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with the air travel regulations.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and safely stowed on planes. They usually have an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stowed underneath the plane as checked baggage. They can also navigate on rough surfaces such as deceleration stripes, gravel, brick or muddy road. They can also be equipped with a patented drive system which allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the boarding gate. However, it is essential to contact them ahead of time to make sure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm that they are able to meet those needs. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour ahead of your scheduled departure which is crucial in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. This space is limited and it's first come, first served. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected in conjunction with the wheelchair or scooter, since federal regulations require that they be disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a secure design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour before your flight so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other information regarding your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to provide a safe and convenient way to travel. These electric chairs can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines for battery size and handling, as well as stowage. If you plan to fly with your airline of preference, you should contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These experts can help you plan your travel itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety. You can then put it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is securely tucked away in a upright position.
Depending on the airline you use, you may need to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, your address, your phone number, and your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it should become lost or damaged during your trip. You might also consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will aid you in staying in your wheelchair during transfers with airline and airport personnel.
You should always arrive at at two hours before your scheduled departure time 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 allows the representative of the airline plenty of time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you travel to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during the flight. This will give you the possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for damages. You should consider bringing a seat cushion to make your flight as comfortable as possible. A seat cushion is especially important for flights that last longer than an hour, because it reduces the pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane could be a daunting prospect. However, with electric lightweight wheelchair proper preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, air travel with a power chair is possible.
Talk to an airline representative before making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They will be able to guide you in the right direction, regardless of whether you prefer to check-in your seat at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it's advised to arrive at least an hour before your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to inspect your equipment and ensure that it will be stowed safely for your trip.
Based on the model of power chair you have, it may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. In this case it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to assist the airline employees who handle your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair, including the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable accessories before you travel to the airport, and cheapest electric wheelchairs to make sure all the controls are in working order.
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 an additional cost to store assistive devices like power wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for those with disabilities since it helps them avoid costly expenses.
A representative from the airline will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that will fit on the aircraft aisle when the plane lands. Then, you can disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the closest possible location to the door of the aircraft, electric wheelchair chair either at the jetbridge or the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines, you can enjoy exploring new places. The most important thing to remember is that if you are uncomfortable in your chair, you'll not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that travel offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed 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 important to adhere to the policies of your airline regarding the transportation and storage of your chair on the airplane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact the airline prior to your travels to ask about their policy and get any questions answered.
Many airlines will allow you to take a motorized wheelchair with you on your trip as provided it's prepared for travel. Certain airlines might require you to recharge the batteries prior to boarding and some may require you to have a medical note in order to allow you to fly with your electric chair. Some airlines may also demand that you disassemble the battery-powered portion of your chair, and then place it in a protective case.
When you arrive at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours before your departure time so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, such as your owner manual and any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up the check-in and prevent confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
When you reach the airline ticket counter or at the gate, be sure you be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide the type of wheelchair you have and any accessories you require like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be keeping your scooters electric wheelchairs wheelchair in a special cart or examining it for stowage. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book an express flight to reduce the number of times your device is moved between locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo area along with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you extra for storing your wheelchair or scooter, the same way they would with your luggage. Take a photograph of your equipment in the event that outdoor electric wheelchair it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.