Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several things to consider when traveling with a powered chair. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you a lot of questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have all these details in hand prior to you leave for the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that comply with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be carried and stowed safely on airplanes. The FAA will allow them to be used for use on flights, and they can be stowed under the plane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to move on rough surfaces like deceleration stripes, gravel, bricks or muddy roads. They could also be equipped with a patent-pending power drive system that allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or lifts.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the boarding gates. However, it is essential to contact them prior to time to ensure they are aware of your needs and to confirm that they are able to meet your needs. Certain airlines require you to be at least an hour before your departure time which is essential in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is not large enough and it's first come first served. They also require that any additional batteries be checked as part of 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 taking an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also request that you check-in an hour before your flight, to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to 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 mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure safe and convenient travel. These power chairs can be folded and are in line with airline standards for battery size and handling, as well as stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can assist you in planning your trip and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines require you to take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals aren't exposed, and that it is stored upright.
Based on your airline depending on your airline, you might be asked to label your wheelchair with the following information: your name address, number and model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment if it gets lost or damaged during your trip. You might also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will help you remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airline and airport personnel.
You should always arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure proper stowage of your equipment is accomplished. Arriving earlier than this is even better if possible particularly during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and provides plenty of time for the airline representative to assist you with stowing your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair before you travel. This will serve as proof if your device gets damaged during the flight. This will help you to seek compensation for damages from the airline. You should also consider bringing cushions for your seats to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Cushions for seats are essential when you travel for more than an hour. They reduce pressure on your skin, making it power chairs uk less prone to soreness.
Check-In
The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline can be a daunting task. However, with the proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, air travel with your power chair is feasible.
Speak to an airline representative prior to booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best way to check in your chair, whether it is at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it is recommended that you arrive at least one hour before your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to check your equipment and ensure that it is safely stored to be ready for your trip.
Based on the model of chair you own It may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. In this case it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the go to help airline personnel who will handle your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair, such as the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any detachable items prior to you travel to the airport and also to ensure that all controls are functioning properly.
When you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you a cost to store assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is a great feature for those with disabilities since it allows them to avoid unnecessary expenses.
A representative from the airline can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can be able to fit into the aircraft aisle when the plane lands. Then, you will be able to board the plane, and your wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as you can or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
A trip with an electric wheelchair may seem daunting, but with the right planning and adherence to guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new locations without difficulty. It is crucial to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to travel with the freedom it affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for people with mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stress-inducing for you, but it's important to adhere to the guidelines of your airline for bringing and stowing your chair on board the airplane. Contact the airline in advance to find out their policy regarding power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Most airlines allow you to bring an electric wheelchair on your trip as provided it's prepared for travel. Certain airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a physician's letter before they will allow you to fly with a power wheelchair. Some airlines may also demand that you take down the battery powered portion of your wheelchair, and then place it in an enclosure that is protected.
When you arrive at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours before the time of departure so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, such as the owner's manual as well as any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and avoid confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the airline's ticket counter or gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Explain your wheelchair and any other accessories you might require for example, sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether they will be keeping your wheelchair in a separate cart or checking it for storage. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book a direct flight to minimize the number of times your device is moved between locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo compartment with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you extra to store your scooter or wheelchair like they do with your luggage. Take a photo of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.