Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several things you should consider when traveling with powered chairs. The airport staff 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 has "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and stowed securely on planes. They will typically have an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stowed underneath the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore, they will be able to navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or muddy roads. They could also have an exclusive power drive system that allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the boarding gate. However, it is important to contact them prior to time to make sure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet those needs. Some airlines require you to arrive one hour prior to your scheduled departure time, which is important during busy travel periods.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of a wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is limited and on an initial-come first-serve basis. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair, since federal regulations require that 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 bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair on their flights. They also require that you check in an hour before your flight to ensure 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 regarding your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to offer the most secure and comfortable way to travel. These power chairs are made to fold up and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines will require you to take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is securely tucked away in a straight position.
Based on your airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following information such as your name, address, phone number, and model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it gets lost or damaged during your travels. You may also want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings like 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 time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. Being earlier than that is even better especially during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This allows you to check in earlier and gives ample time for the airline representative to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair prior to traveling. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for damages. You should also consider bringing cushions for your seats to ensure that your flight is as relaxing as possible for you. Using a seat cushion is particularly important for flights that will last over an hour, as it reduces pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane is an intimidating experience. However, with the proper preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, flying with your power 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 figure out the best way to check into your seat, whether it is at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, it is recommended to arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure that it's safely stored to be ready for your trip.
Based on the model of chair you own It could be required to disassemble it prior to transport. In this case, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the go to help airline personnel handling your chair. It is here also an excellent idea to attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair, like the owner's manual as well as warranty information. It is also recommended to remove any accessories that are removable and ensure whether all controls function before leaving for the airport.
Once you are at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the airplane. The airlines are prohibited from charging you an additional cost to store assistive devices, like power wheelchairs. This is a great feature for people with disabilities, because it can help them avoid costly expenses.
An airline employee will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can be able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft once the plane lands. You will then be able to disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as is possible, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with right planning and following the rules you will be able to enjoy exploring new places. It is important to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to enjoy the freedom it 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 experience less stress-inducing for you, but it is important to follow the policies of your airline regarding the transportation and storage of your chair on board the plane. Contact the airline ahead of time to inquire about their policy on power chairs, and to inquire about any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, so provided you prepare it correctly for travel. Certain airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will need a doctor's letter to allow you to travel with your electric wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require that you take down the battery-powered part of your wheelchair, and place it into a case that is safe.
Once you're at the airport, make sure you arrive at least two hours prior to your departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. It's recommended 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 the check-in process and can help avoid confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.
When you arrive at the airline's ticket counter or at the gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Explain the kind of wheelchair you own and any necessary accessories like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or the possibility of transferring it to the aircraft with an adapted cart. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book an express flight to reduce the number times your equipment is moved between different locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment along with your checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. If your equipment is damaged, make sure you take a photograph before you leave the airport and immediately notify the airline.