Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are many things to take into consideration. Airport and airline staff will ask you numerous questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type as well as how it should be handled.
Be sure to have this information in your possession prior to you travel to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stowed on planes. The FAA will approve them for air travel, and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. They can also navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration stripes roads that are muddy or brick. They may also have a patent-pending power drive system that enables them to move in tight spaces or lifts.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the boarding gates. It is however important to contact them prior to time to make sure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm that they are able to meet those requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour before your departure time, which is important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage and storage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited and operates on the basis of first-come-first-serve. Federal regulations also require that all batteries added to the system be checked by the scooter or wheelchair. They must be disconnected unless they are specifically designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also request that you check in an hour before 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 information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other information about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to provide an efficient and safe way to travel. These chairs are designed to fold and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling, and storage. If you're planning to travel with the airline of your choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Some airlines ask that you remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is secured in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you travel with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, your address, your telephone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment in case it is lost or mishandled during your trip. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will help you remain in your chair while you travel with airport personnel and airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that proper stowage of your equipment is accomplished. Arriving earlier than this is even better, especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This allows you to check in earlier and gives plenty of attendant controlled electric wheelchair time for the airline representative here to assist you in stowing your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair prior to traveling. This serves as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you the possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for any damages. You should also think about bringing a seat cushion with you so that your journey is as comfortable as it can be for you. Seat cushions are especially important for flights that last more than an hour. They can reduce pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane is an intimidating experience. But, with the right preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, air travel using your electric chair is possible.
Speak to an airline representative before making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They will be able to help you navigate in the right direction, whether you prefer to check-in your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it is recommended to arrive at least one hour before your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to examine your equipment and make sure that it will be stowed safely for your journey.
Depending on the model of your power chair It could be necessary for you to disassemble it prior to it is transported. If this is the case, it is beneficial to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to help the staff of the airline handling your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair, including the owner's manual and warranty information. You should also remove any accessories that are removable and make sure that all controls work before leaving for the airport.
Once you arrive at the airport your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and then stowed. The airlines are not allowed to charging an additional cost to store assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is a wonderful benefit for passengers with disabilities, as it helps them avoid unnecessary expenses.
When the plane lands at the airport, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that is able to fit down the aircraft aisle. Then, you will be able to disembark, and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as you can or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with right planning and following guidelines you can have fun exploring new places. The most important thing to remember is that if not comfortable moving around in your chair, you will not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that travel affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. If you have a wheelchair or a scooter could make your trip more enjoyable. However, it's essential to follow the airline's guidelines for the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to inquire about their policy regarding power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to take an electric wheelchair on your flight, so you've prepared it for travel. Some airlines might require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and some may require you to have a doctor's note on file prior to being able to let you fly with your motorized chair. Some airlines may also require that you take down the battery-powered part of your chair, and place it in a protective case.
When you arrive at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours prior to the time of departure to allow your read more airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. Bring any documentation you may require to the airport, including your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will speed up the process of checking in and will help avoid confusion about your airline's attendant controlled electric power wheelchair uk wheelchair policies.
On arrival at the counter for tickets or gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any other accessories you may need like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be keeping your wheelchair in a separate cart or checking it for stowage. If you're outdoor power chair going to transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to make a direct flight which will cut down on the number of times that your equipment will be transferred between various locations.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment, just like checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. If your equipment is damaged, you must take a photograph before you leave the airport and immediately notify the airline.