How To Know If You're Ready For Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric WheelchairThere are many things you should consider when traveling with a powered chair. 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 use it.
Be sure to have all this information at hand before you leave for the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and stowed securely on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for travel on planes and they can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore they'll be able to maneuver on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or muddy roads. They could also be fitted with a drive system that is patent-pending that allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter until the gate for boarding. However, it is important to contact them prior to time to ensure that they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet those requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour before the time of departure This is particularly important during busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes for the stowage and storage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is limited and operated on a first-come, first-serve basis. The federal regulations also require that any additional batteries be checked by the wheelchair or scooter. They must be removed unless they are specifically designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when taking electric wheelchairs or scooters on their flights. They also require to check-in one hour prior to your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather assembly/disassembly information and other helpful details about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are made for secure and comfortable travel. These power chairs can be folded and comply 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. They can assist in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also give you assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety and then place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed, and that it is safely stored upright.
Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you travel with, you may have 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 accurately identify the equipment if it should become lost or damaged during your trip. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will help you remain in your seat during transfers with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
You should arrive at at two hours before the departure time you have scheduled to ensure the proper storage of your equipment is done. Being earlier than that is even better particularly during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and provides ample time for the airline representative to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you leave, take a picture of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for any damages from the airline. You should also think about bringing an extra cushion for your seat to ensure that your flight is as relaxing as possible for you. Cushions for seats are essential when you travel for more than an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
For those who travel using an approved airline electric wheelchair, the process of boarding a plane can be an intimidating experience. However, with the proper preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, traveling using your electric chair is feasible.
Speak to an airline representative prior to making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best way to check-in your chair regardless of whether it's at the ticket counter or the gate. In either case, it's recommended that you arrive at least one hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure that it is properly stowed for your journey.
Based on the power chair you have, it may be necessary for you to disassemble it before it is transported. If this is the case, it's beneficial to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to help the airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any accessories that can be removed prior to when you travel to the airport and to ensure all the controls are working properly.
Once you arrive at the airport, your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and stowed. The airlines are not allowed to charging you a fee to stow assistive devices like electric wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for passengers with disabilities, as it helps them save money.
An airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can be able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft once the plane arrives. Then, you will be able to get off the plane and your power wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as you can, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with right planning and following guidelines, you can enjoy exploring new locations. It is crucial to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to enjoy the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for people who have mobility issues. If you have heavy duty electric wheelchair a wheelchair or a scooter can make your trip more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's policies regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact your airline before your trip to inquire about their policies and to get any questions answered.
Most airlines will allow you to take a motorized wheelchair with you on your trip as you've prepared it for travel. Some airlines might require you to recharge the batteries before boarding, and some may require you to have a medical note on file before they will allow you to fly using your power chair. Certain airlines may also require that you remove the battery-powered part of your wheelchair, and place it in an enclosure that is protected.
Once you're at the airport, make sure you arrive at least two hours prior to your departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, such as your owner manual and any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will speed up check-in process and help avoid confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you reach the ticket counter of your airline or gate, make sure to be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any other accessories you may need for example, seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be storing your wheelchair in a special cart or examining it for storage. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book an express flight to reduce the number of times your device is moved between different locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo compartment along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. Take a picture of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.