Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many things you should consider when traveling with an electric chair. Airport and airline staff will ask you many questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have all this information in your possession prior to you leave for the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with the air travel regulations.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are able to be safely transported and stowed on planes. They typically come with a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stowed underneath the plane as checked baggage. They will also be able navigate on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration stripes roads that are muddy or brick. They may also be equipped with a patented drive system which allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate to board. However, it is essential to contact them prior to time to ensure they are aware of your requirements and confirm that they can meet those needs. Some airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to the time of departure, which is especially important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their aircrafts to allow the stowage and storage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is limited and operated on an initial-come first-serve basis. The federal regulations also demand that all batteries added to the system be checked by the scooter or wheelchair. They must be shut off unless they are designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require that you check in one hour before your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions and other helpful details about your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure secure and comfortable travel. These chairs are designed to fold and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and storage. If you're planning to fly with your airline of choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist you in planning your trip and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines ask that you remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed, and it is stowed upright.
Depending on the airline you use or airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following information: your name, address, phone number, and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it is lost or mishandled during your journey. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will help you remain in your chair while you travel with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your light weight electric wheelchair departure to ensure proper equipment storage. If you are able, arrive earlier than two hours before your scheduled departure time. This is especially important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This lets you check-in early and gives the airline representative plenty of time to help you stow your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair before you travel. This serves as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage to pursue compensation from the airline in case of damages. Consider bringing along an extra cushion for your seat to make the trip as comfortable as you possibly can. Using a seat cushion is essential for flights that will last more than an hour, since this will minimize pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, the process of boarding a plane can be an intimidating experience. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is achievable with proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Before booking your flight, speak to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best method to check into your seat regardless of whether it's here at the ticket counter or the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour before your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure it is safely and properly stored to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the kind of power chair you have, it may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. In this instance, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in hand to assist the airline employees who handle your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. You should also take off any removable items and make sure whether all controls function before leaving for the airport.
Once you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed website in the cargo hold of the plane. Airlines are not permitted to charge you extra to store assistive devices, like power chairs. This is a great feature for those with disabilities since it allows them to save money.
A representative from the airline will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit down the read more aisle of the aircraft once the plane lands. Then, you will be able to board the plane, and your power wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as is possible, either 25 stone capacity electric wheelchair at the jet bridge or at the gate.
Traveling with an electric wheelchair may seem intimidating, but with proper planning and adhering to the guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new destinations with ease. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you're not comfortable in your chair, you'll never be able to take advantage of the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for people with mobility issues. If you're traveling with a wheelchair or a scooter, it can make your trip more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow the airline's guidelines for bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your departure to inquire about their policy and ask any questions.
Most airlines will allow passengers to bring an electric wheelchair on your trip as you've prepared it for travel. Some airlines require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a physician's letter prior to allowing you to travel with your electric wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair and place it in a case that is protected.
Arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before departure. Bring any documentation you might need to the airport, such as your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
If you are at the ticket counter of your airline or gate, be sure you be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide a description of your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you might require for example, seats or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be storing your wheelchair in a special cart or checking it for stowage. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book a direct flight to minimize the number of times your device is moved between places.
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 Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging additional fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. Take a photo of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.