Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to consider. The staff at the airport and at the airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information ready prior to your trip to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are compliant 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. They will typically have an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stored under the plane as checked luggage. Additionally, they will be able to navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips brick or muddy roads. They may also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending that allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter to the gate to board. However, it is essential to contact them ahead of time to make sure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet those requirements. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour before your scheduled departure which is crucial during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes for the stowage of a wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is limited and operated on an initial-come first-serve basis. They also require that any additional batteries be checked as part of the scooter or wheelchair because federal regulations require they must be removed from the device unless the chair is equipped with a secure design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour prior to your flight so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get assembly/disassembly information and other helpful information about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed for safe and convenient travel. These electric chairs can be folded and comply with airline guidelines regarding battery size and handling, as well as stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can help you plan your itinerary and provide you with the latest information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety purposes and place it in a carry-on bag. This is 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 fly with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, your address, your telephone number, and the wheelchair model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment in case it should become lost or damaged during your travels. You may also think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will aid you in staying in your wheelchair while you travel with airline and airport personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment storage. If possible, arrive earlier than two hours prior to the time you plan to depart. This is especially crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This lets you arrive early and allows ample time for the representative of the airline to assist you in stowing your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair before you travel. This serves as proof if your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for any damages. You should also think about bringing an extra cushion for your seat, so that the flight is as comfortable as possible for you. A seat cushion is particularly important for flights that will last longer than an hour, because this will minimize pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, boarding a plane can be an overwhelming experience. Traveling with a power chair is possible with the proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, talk to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best way to check in your chair regardless of whether it's at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, it is recommended to arrive at least one hour before your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to check your equipment and ensure that it will be safely towed for your journey.
Based on the model of power chair you have It could be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. In this instance it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the table to aid airline personnel handling get more info your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. It is cost of electric wheelchair also an excellent idea to take out any detachable items prior to you leave for the airport and also to ensure that all of the controls are working properly.
When you arrive at an airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and then stowed. The airlines are not allowed to charging outdoor electric wheelchair you a cost to store assistive devices, such as electric wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for those with disabilities as they can avoid costly expenses.
Once the plane is in the air in the air, a representative from the airline will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to one that is able to cost of electric wheelchair fit into the aisle of the aircraft. After disembarking, your wheelchair is returned to you at the nearest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft or at the jetbridge or the gate.
Traveling with an electric wheelchair may seem daunting, but with the right planning and adherence to guidelines, it is possible to experience the joy of exploring new destinations with ease. It is crucial to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair, you won't be able to travel with the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for those with mobility problems. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stress-inducing for you, but it's important to adhere to the guidelines of your airline for the transportation and storage of your chair on the airplane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact your airline before your trip to ask about their policy and to get any questions answered.
Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair for your flight, so long as you prepare it to travel. Some airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will require a doctor's letter to allow you to travel with your electric wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require that you take down the battery-powered part of your chair and place it in an enclosure that is protected.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours before the time of departure to ensure that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to flight. It's also a good idea check here to bring any documentation, including your owner's manual or instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will make it easier for the check-in process and help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
When you reach the counter for tickets to airline or gate, make sure to be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Be sure to describe the kind of wheelchair you're using and any accessories you require like cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be keeping your wheelchair in a separate cart or checking it for stowage. If you're taking a transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to book a direct flight, which will cut down on the amount of times your equipment will be moved 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 fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment arrives damaged, be sure to take a picture of it before leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.