Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to take into consideration. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you many questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have these details ready before you go to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that comply with the regulations for air travel.
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 an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be tucked under the plane as checked luggage. Additionally, they will be able to navigate on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or roads that are muddy. They could also be equipped with a patent-pending power drive system that enables them to move in tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the boarding gates. It is important to call the airline ahead of time to ensure they are aware of any specific needs and confirm that they can meet these requirements. Some airlines require you to be at least an hour before your scheduled departure time which is essential during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. This space is limited, and it's first come, first served. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair as federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless it is equipped with a safe design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to taking electric wheelchairs or scooters on their flights. They also request to check-in one hour before your flight so that they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get assembly/disassembly information and other helpful details about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed for safe and convenient travel. These chairs are designed to fold up and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling, and storage. If you are planning to travel with the airline of your preference, you should contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also give you assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed, and that it is safely stowed upright.
Depending on the airline you fly with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, address, your number, and your wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it gets lost or is damaged during your travels. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will help you remain in your chair during transfers with airport personnel and airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport 2 hours prior to your departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. If possible, arrive at least two hours earlier than the time you plan to depart. This is particularly important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This lets you check-in early and allows the airline representative plenty of time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair before you travel. This serves as proof if your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage in pursuing compensation for damages from the airline. It is also advisable to bring a seat cushion with you, so that the flight is as relaxing as possible for you. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights lasting over an hour. They reduce the pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that is accepted by the airline can be a daunting task. However, with the proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, flying using your electric chair is attainable.
Before booking your flight, speak to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can guide you in the right direction, regardless of whether you prefer to get your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour before your flight is recommended. This allows the airline plenty of time to inspect your equipment and ensure it will be safely towed for your trip.
Based on the power chair you have, it may be necessary to disassemble it before transportation. If this is the case, it is helpful 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 guide and warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any detachable items prior to you go to the airport and to ensure all controls are in working order.
When you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and then stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge you extra for the stowing of assistive devices such as power chairs. This is a huge benefit for those who have disabilities, as it allows them to avoid costly expenses.
When the plane lands, an airline employee will be able to transfer you from your power wheelchair to one that is able to slide in the aisle of the aircraft. After disembarking, your wheelchair will be returned to you at the closest possible location to the door of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or the gate.
Traveling with an electric chair can be daunting, but with the right planning and adhering to the guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new destinations easily. It is essential to keep in mind 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 are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the experience less stressful for you, but it's important to adhere to the guidelines of your airline for transporting and stowing your chair on board the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact the airline prior to your departure to ask about their policy and ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight as long as it's properly prepared for travel. Certain airlines might require you to recharge the batteries prior to boarding and some may require you to have a medical note 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 wheelchair and place it in a protective case.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to your scheduled departure so that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, including your owner manual and any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid, to the airport. This will speed up check-in and prevent confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
If you are at the counter for tickets to airline or at the gate, be sure you explain your mobility needs clearly. Explain your wheelchair and any other accessories you might require for example, seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be keeping your wheelchair in a special cart or checking it for stowage. If you're taking a transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, you should try to take a direct flight which will cut down on the amount of times your equipment will be moved between various locations.
Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for storing a wheelchair or scooter. Take a photo of your equipment if it arrives carer controlled electric wheelchair damaged. Contact the airline immediately.