Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are several things to consider. The airport staff and airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions and battery type, as well as how to use it.
Make sure you have this information prepared before you travel to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that comply with the air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines can be safely transported and stowed on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for air travel, and they can be stored in the airplane as checked baggage. Furthermore they'll be able to maneuver on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips brick or muddy roads. They could also have an exclusive power drive system that enables them to move in tight spaces or lifts.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the boarding gates. It is however important to contact them prior to time to make sure they are aware of your needs and to confirm that they are able to meet your needs. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour before your scheduled departure This is particularly important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes for the stowage of a mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited and on an initial-come first-serve basis. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected in conjunction with the scooter or wheelchair because federal regulations require they are disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a safe design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also require that you check-in an 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 details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful information regarding your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to provide a safe and convenient way to travel. They can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines regarding battery size handling, stowage, and handling. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can assist you in planning your travel itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date details regarding battery requirements. They can also give you assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines will require you to remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is securely tucked away in an upright position.
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 number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment in case it is lost or damaged during your travels. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will allow you to remain in your chair while you travel with airport personnel and airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport 2 hours before your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment storage. If possible, arrive here earlier than two hours prior to the time you plan to depart. This is especially important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This lets you check in earlier and gives plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair prior to traveling. This serves as proof if your device gets damaged during 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 to ensure that your flight is as relaxing as possible for you. Seat cushions are particularly important when you travel for more than an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin preventing soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that has been accepted by the airline can be a daunting task. But, with the right preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, air travel using your electric chair is possible.
Speak to an airline representative before making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to get your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour prior to your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure that it is properly and properly stored for your trip.
Depending on the type of power chair you have It could be necessary to disassemble it for transport. If this is the case, it's helpful to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to help the airline employees handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any accessories that can be removed prior to when you leave for the airport and also to ensure that all of the controls are in working order.
Once you are at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored click here in the cargo hold of the plane. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you an additional fee to stow assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is read more a great benefit for passengers with disabilities as it helps them avoid unnecessary costs.
An airline employee will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that will fit on the aircraft aisle when the plane arrives. You will then be able to disembark, and your power wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as you can in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with the right planning and following the rules you can have fun exploring new locations. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you're not comfortable moving around in your chair, you'll never take advantage of the freedom that travel affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for passengers with mobility problems. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the experience less stressful for you, however it is important to follow the guidelines of your airline for transporting and stowing your chair on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to learn click here about their policies on power chairs, and to ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a click here motorized chair for your flight, so that you prepare it properly to travel. Certain airlines may require you to recharge the batteries prior to boarding and some will need to have a doctor's recommendation in order to allow you to fly using your power chair. Some airlines will also require you to remove the battery-powered portion of your chair and then place it in a protective case.
When you arrive at the airport, make sure you arrive at least two hours prior to the time of departure to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, including your owner's manual or instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid to the airport. This will make it easier for the check-in process and help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
Upon arriving at the counter for tickets or at the gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Provide the type of wheelchair you have and any accessories you require, such as cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be placing your wheelchair in a separate cart or examining it for stowage. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book an direct flight to cut down on the amount of times your equipment is moved between places.
Once your wheelchair is in the plane it will be stored in the cargo compartment, just like checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair, like they do with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, you must take a picture of it before leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.