Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to consider. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you many questions about your chair's dimensions, battery type and how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information in your possession prior to you leave for the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that comply with the regulations for air travel.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and stowed safely on airplanes. The FAA can approve them for air travel, and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. They can also navigate on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes brick or muddy road. They may also have an exclusive power drive system that enables them to move in tight spaces or lifts.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the boarding gates. It is crucial to contact the airline in advance to make sure they are aware of any special needs and to confirm that they can meet them. Certain airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to the time of departure which is crucial in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes that allows for the stowage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited and it's first come, first served. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair, as federal regulations require that they be disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with a secure design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to taking electric wheelchairs or scooters on their flights. They also ask to check-in at least an hour prior to your flight time so that they can ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful information about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure safe and convenient travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold up and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and storage. If you plan to travel with your airline of choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist you in preparing your itinerary and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed and that it is safely stowed upright.
Depending on your airline or airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following information such as your name, address, phone number and model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it should become lost or mishandled during your trip. You might also think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will allow you to remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
You should arrive at at two hours before the departure time you have scheduled to ensure proper stowage of your equipment is done. If you can be there at least two hours earlier than the time you plan to depart. This is particularly crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This lets you check in earlier and gives ample time for the representative of the airline to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you leave to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for damages from the airline. You should also consider bringing cushions for your seats, so that the flight is as comfortable as cheap power chairs it can be for you. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights lasting over an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, the process of boarding a plane can be an overwhelming experience. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is possible with the proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Talk to an airline representative prior to making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best way to check-in your chair regardless of whether it's 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 to inspect your equipment, and ensure that it is properly stored for your journey.
Depending on your power chair It could be necessary for you to disassemble it before transportation. If this is the case, it is helpful to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly available to assist airline personnel handling your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair, such as the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable items prior to you travel to the airport, and to make sure all the controls are working properly.
When you arrive at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the airplane. The airlines are prohibited from charging you a cost to store assistive devices like electric wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for those with disabilities since it allows them to avoid unnecessary costs.
An airline employee can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can be able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft once the plane lands. After disembarking, your wheelchair will be returned to you at the closest possible location to the aircraft door or at the jetbridge or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with the proper planning and following the guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new destinations. The most important thing to remember is that if not comfortable in your chair, you'll never enjoy the freedom that traveling affords.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for people who suffer from mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stress-inducing for you, but it's important to adhere to the policies of your airline regarding the transportation and storage of 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 policies and to get any questions answered.
Most airlines allow passengers to bring an electric wheelchair on your trip as provided it's prepared for travel. Some airlines require that you charge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a physician's letter to allow you to fly with a electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also demand that you disassemble the battery powered portion of your wheelchair, and place it in a protective case.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your flight. Bring any documentation you might require to the airport, including your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in and prevent confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the ticket counter of your airline or gate, make sure you explain your mobility needs clearly. Be sure to describe the type of wheelchair you have and any other accessories you may require like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be placing your wheelchair in a separate cart or checking it for storage. If you're taking a transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to make a direct flight which will minimize the number of times that your equipment will be transferred between different locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo compartment with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. If your equipment arrives damaged, you must take a photograph prior to leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.