Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are many aspects to be considered. The staff at the airport and at the airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to use it.
Make sure you have this information prepared before you travel to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with air travel regulations.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and stowed securely on airplanes. The FAA will allow them to be used for travel on planes and they can be stored in the airplane as checked baggage. Additionally, they will be able to maneuver on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips brick or muddy roads. They could also be equipped with an exclusive power drive system that allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or lifts.
Airlines will assist you for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate to board. It is crucial to call the airline ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they are able to meet them. Certain airlines require you to arrive one hour prior to your 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 operated on the basis of first-come-first-serve. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected in conjunction with the wheelchair or scooter, since federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless it is equipped with a secure design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask that you check in one hour before your flight so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other information about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to offer the most secure and comfortable way to travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling, and storage. 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 travel itinerary and provide you with the latest details regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines will require you to remove your wheelchair's battery to ensure safety and put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is secured in a straight position.
Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, address, your telephone number, and your wheelchair model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it gets lost or damaged during your travels. You may also think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which allow you to remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. If possible you can arrive earlier than two hours prior to your departure time. This is especially important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This allows you to check in early and allows the airline representative plenty of time to help you stow your chair.
Before you leave, take a picture of your wheelchair to be used as proof 25 stone capacity electric wheelchair in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during your flight. This will help you to seek compensation for damages from the airline. It is also advisable to bring cushions for your seats to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as it can be for you. Cushions for seats are essential for flights lasting over an hour. They reduce the pressure on your skin and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline can be daunting. But, with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, flying with your power chair is feasible.
Before you book your flight, talk to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the best direction, whether you prefer to make your seat at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour prior to your flight is recommended. This allows the airline plenty of time to inspect your equipment and ensure that it will be safely towed for your trip.
Based on the model of chair you own It could be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. If this is the case, it's important to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions in order to aid the airline employees handling your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair, including the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any accessories that can be removed prior to when you leave for the airport and to ensure all the controls are in working order.
When you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the plane. The airlines are prohibited from charging an additional fee to stow assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for passengers with disabilities since they can save money.
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 arrives. After disembarking, your wheelchair is returned to you at the nearest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft or at the jetbridge or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric chair can be daunting, but with careful planning and adherence to guidelines, you can be able to experience the joy of exploring new places without difficulty. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if not comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that travel affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be extremely stressful for people with mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stress-inducing for you, but it's essential to follow the guidelines of your airline for bringing and stowing your chair on the airplane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact the airline before your trip to inquire about their policy and ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, as long as you prepare it to travel. Some airlines might require you to recharge the batteries prior to boarding and some will need to have a doctor's note on file before they will let you fly with your motorized chair. Some airlines may also demand that you remove the battery-powered part of your chair, and place it into a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours prior to the time of departure so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documentation you might require to the airport, including your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will help speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
If you are at the counter for tickets to airline or gate, make sure to communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Provide the kind of wheelchair you own and any other accessories you may require, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether they will be placing your wheelchair in a separate cart or checking it for storage. If you're taking a transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, try to book a direct flight, which will minimize the amount of times your equipment will be transferred between locations.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment along with your checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. If your equipment is damaged, you must take a picture of it before leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.