Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are many things to consider. Airport and airline staff will ask you a lot of questions regarding your chair's dimensions and battery type as well as how it should be handled.
Be sure to have this information at hand before you travel to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that meet the regulations for air travel.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are able to be safely transported and stored on planes. They will typically have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel and can be stored under the plane as checked luggage. Additionally, they will be able to navigate on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or muddy roads. They may also be equipped with a unique drive system that permits them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the boarding gates. It is essential to call the airline ahead of time to ensure they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they can meet the requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour before the departure time you have scheduled 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 mobility device or wheelchair. The space is limited and it's first come, first serve. The federal regulations also require that all extra batteries be checked by the wheelchair or scooter. They must be disconnected unless they are specifically designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before bringing an electric wheelchair or scooter 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 to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions as well as other useful information about your mobility or power chair. scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to offer an efficient and safe method of travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold up and meet 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 help you plan your itinerary and provide you with the latest details regarding battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines require you to take the wheelchair's battery out of the way to ensure safety and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is secured in a upright position.
Based on your airline depending on your airline, you might be asked to label your wheelchair with the following information including your name, address, phone number and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it gets lost or is mishandled on your trip. You might also consider purchasing aftermarket slings like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will aid you in staying in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure the proper storage of your equipment is completed. If you are able you can arrive earlier than two hours prior to your scheduled departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and gives the airline representative ample time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you travel, take a picture of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during the flight. This will give you the possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline in case of damages. Consider bringing along a seat cushion to make the flight as comfortable as you possibly can. A seat cushion is particularly important for flights that last longer than an hour, because it reduces the pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, getting on a plane could be a daunting prospect. However, with the proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, air travel using heavy duty electric wheelchair your electric chair is feasible.
Before booking your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can help you navigate in the right direction, whether you prefer to get your seat at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it is advised to arrive at least an hour before your flight. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure it is safely and properly stored mobility wheelchair electric for your journey.
Depending on the kind of chair you own It could be required to disassemble it prior to 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. Attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any accessories that can be removed prior to when you go to the airport and to ensure all of the controls are working properly.
When you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and then stowed. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you a cost to store assistive devices, like power wheelchairs. This is a great benefit for passengers with disabilities as they can avoid costly expenses.
A representative from the airline will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can be able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft when the plane arrives. Then, you will be able to get off the plane and your power wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
Traveling with an electric wheelchair may seem daunting, but with the right planning and adhering to guidelines, it is possible to experience the joy of exploring new destinations with ease. It is essential to keep in mind that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for passengers who suffer from mobility issues. If you're traveling with a wheelchair or a scooter could make your trip more enjoyable. However, it's essential to follow the airline's guidelines regarding bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact the airline prior to your departure to inquire about their policy and to get any questions answered.
Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair on your flight, so provided you prepare it properly for travel. Certain airlines might require you to charge the batteries prior to boarding and some will need to have a medical note on file prior to being able to let you fly with your electric chair. Certain airlines may also require that you remove the battery powered portion of your wheelchair, and place it in an enclosure that is protected.
Once you're at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours before your departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, like your owner's manual or assembly/disassembly instructions get more info for your mobility aid to the airport. This will speed up check-in process and avoid confusion over your electric mobility chairs for adults airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
Upon arriving at the ticket counter or gate, make sure to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Be sure to describe the kind of wheelchair you're using and any other accessories you may require, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether they will be storing your wheelchair here in a specific cart or checking it for storage. If you're transferring to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to book a direct flight, which will minimize the amount of times your equipment will be transferred between various locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo compartment along with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. Take a photo of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.