Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are several things to take into consideration. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you many questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have these details ready before you go to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that comply with air travel regulations.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and safely stowed on airplanes. They typically come with a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be tucked under the plane as checked luggage. Additionally, they will be able to maneuver on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or muddy roads. They can also be equipped with a unique drive system which allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter to the boarding gate. However, it is important to contact them prior to time to make sure they are aware of your needs and to confirm that they are able to meet your needs. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour before your scheduled departure time which is essential during peak 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 limited and is first come, first serve. They also require that any extra batteries be checked as part of the scooter or wheelchair, because federal regulations require they are disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with an effective design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask to check-in at least an hour prior to your flight time to ensure proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent information about your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to provide a safe and convenient way to travel. These electric chairs can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in planning your trip and give you the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines will require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is secured in an upright position.
Based on your airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following information including your name address, address, phone number, and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it gets lost or is mishandled during your journey. You may also consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will aid you in staying in your wheelchair when you transfer with airline and airport personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. Arriving earlier than this is even better if possible especially during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and allows the representative of the airline plenty of time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you leave to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during your flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for damages from the airline. You should also think about bringing a seat cushion with you to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as it can be for you. Cushions for seats are essential when you travel for more than an hour. They reduce pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is accepted by the airline can be intimidating. Traveling with a power chair is feasible with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Speak to an airline representative prior to booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best method to check into your seat regardless of whether it's at the ticket counter or the gate. In any case, it is advised to arrive at least one hour before your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to inspect your equipment and make sure that it will be safely towed for your journey.
Depending on the kind of chair you own, it may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. If electric wheelchair lightweight is the case, it is helpful to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions on hand to help the staff of the airline handling your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair, including the owner's manual as well as warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any detachable items prior to you go to the airport, and to make sure all the controls are in working order.
Once you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the airplane. The airlines are not allowed to charging you an additional cost to store assistive devices, like power wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for those with disabilities as it allows them to avoid costly expenses.
When the plane lands at the airport, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit into the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you will be able to board the plane, and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as is possible, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with the right planning and following the rules, you can enjoy exploring new locations. The most important thing to remember is that if you're uncomfortable in your chair, you will never enjoy the freedom that traveling offers.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for those who have mobility problems. If you're using mobility scooters or wheelchairs, it can make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it's crucial to adhere to the airline's guidelines regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact the airline prior to your travels to inquire about their policies and to get any questions answered.
Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair on your flight, as long as you prepare it to travel. Certain airlines might require you to discharge the batteries before boarding, and some will require you to have a doctor's 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 portion of your chair and place it in an enclosure that is protected.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, including the owner's manual as well as any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the counter for tickets or gate, make sure to clearly communicate your mobility requirements. Be sure to describe the kind of wheelchair you're using and any necessary accessories like cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair for stowage or if it will be transferred to the aircraft using an adapted cart. If you're going to transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to make a direct flight which will reduce the number of times that your equipment will be transferred between different locations.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane it will be stored in the cargo compartment along with your checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment arrives damaged, be sure to take a photograph before leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.