Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are several things to take into consideration. The staff at the airport and the airline will inquire about your chair, its dimensions and battery type, as well as how to handle 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 compliant with the regulations for air travel.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines can be safely transported and stored on planes. They will typically have an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stowed underneath the plane as checked baggage. They can also move on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration stripes, brick or muddy road. They could also have a patent-pending power drive system that enables them to navigate in tight spaces, or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter to the gate for boarding. However, it is important to contact them ahead of time to make sure they are aware of your needs 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 crucial in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. This space is limited and is first come, first served. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected in conjunction with the scooter or wheelchair since federal regulations require that they are disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a safe design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour before your flight, to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent information regarding your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed for safe and convenient travel. These power chairs can be folded and comply 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. These experts can help you plan your travel plans and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require you to remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed, and it is stowed upright.
Depending on your airline or airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following details including your name address, number, and model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment in case it gets lost or damaged during your travels. You may also want to think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which allow you to remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airline and airport personnel.
You should always arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the departure time you have scheduled to ensure that small power chair the proper stowage of your equipment is completed. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better, especially during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This lets you check-in early and allows the representative of the airline plenty of time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair prior to traveling. This can be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you the leverage to pursue compensation from the airline in case of damages. You should also think about bringing an extra cushion for your seat, so that the flight is as comfortable as it can be for you. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights lasting over an hour. They reduce pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that is accepted by the airline can be intimidating. But, with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, air travel using your electric chair is attainable.
Contact an airline representative prior to 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 make your seat at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, it is recommended to arrive at least an hour before your flight. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and ensure it will be stowed safely for your journey.
Based on the model of chair you own It may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. In this case it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to assist the airline personnel who will handle your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair, like the owner's manual as well as warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable accessories before you go to the airport and to ensure all of the controls are in working order.
Once you arrive at the airport your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and stowed. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you a cost to store assistive devices, like power wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for those who have disabilities, as they can save money.
After the plane has landed, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to one that is able to slide in the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you will be able to board the plane, and your power wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as you can in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with the right planning and following guidelines you can have fun exploring new locations. It is important to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be extremely stressful for those with mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stress-inducing for you, but it's essential to follow your airline's policies for bringing and stowing your chair on the airplane. Contact the airline in advance to learn about their policies on power chairs, and to inquire about any questions.
Most airlines will let you bring an electric chair on your flight, as that you prepare it correctly to travel. Some airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a doctor's letter to allow you to fly with your power wheelchair. Some airlines may also require you to disassemble the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair and place it inside a protective case.
Get to the airport at minimum two hours prior to your scheduled departure so that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, like your owner's manual or instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid to the airport. This will speed up check-in process and help avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
On arrival at the counter for tickets or gate, make sure to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Explain the type of wheelchair you have and any other accessories you may require like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be keeping your wheelchair in a separate cart or examining it for stowage. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book a direct flight to minimize the number of times your device is moved between different locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo compartment with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you extra to store your wheelchair or scooter, just as they would with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, you must capture a photo before you leave the airport and immediately notify the airline.