10 Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Tips All Experts Recommend
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are many things to take into consideration. The airport staff and airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions and battery type, as well as how to use it.
Make sure you have all of this information in your possession prior to you travel to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that comply with the air travel regulations.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be carried and safely stowed on airplanes. The FAA can approve them for use on flights, and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. They will also be able maneuver on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration stripes, brick or muddy road. They may also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending that allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter until the boarding gate. However, it is important to contact them prior to time to ensure that they are aware of your needs and to confirm that they are able to meet those needs. Some airlines require you to be at least an hour before your scheduled departure time This 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 wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is limited and on the basis of first-come-first-serve. They also require that any extra batteries be checked as part of the wheelchair or scooter, because federal regulations require they are disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with an effective design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when bringing an electric wheelchair or scooter on their flights. They also request that you check-in an hour before your flight so that they can ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. Additionally, they request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions and other helpful information regarding your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure secure and comfortable travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold, and they 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 the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These experts can assist you in planning your travel plans and provide you with the latest details regarding battery requirements. They can also provide you with assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines ask that you remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is securely tucked away in a straight position.
Depending on the airline you use depending on your airline, you might be asked to label your wheelchair with the following details including your name address, number and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event that it is stolen or mishandled during your journey. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will allow you to remain in your chair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. If possible, arrive earlier than two hours prior to your 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 with stowing your chair.
Before you leave and leave home, take a photograph 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 for damages. Consider bringing along cushions to make the flight as comfortable as possible. The use of a cushion for your seat is especially important for flights that will last more than an hour, since this will minimize the pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, getting on a plane could be an overwhelming experience. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is feasible with right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Before booking your flight, talk to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They can guide you in the best direction, no matter if you prefer to check-in your seat at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour before your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure it is safely stored to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the model of your power chair, it may be necessary for you to disassemble the chair prior to it is transported. In this instance, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the go to help airline employees who handle your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. You should also remove any accessories that are removable and check that all controls work before you depart for the airport.
Once you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the airplane. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra for stowing assistive devices like power chairs. This is a great feature for people with disabilities, because it can help them save money.
Once the plane is in the air in the air, a representative from the airline will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to slide into the aisle of the aircraft. You will then be able to disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as is possible in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
Traveling with an electric chair can be daunting, but with the right planning and adhering to guidelines, you can be able to experience the joy of exploring new locations easily. It is essential to keep in mind that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair you won't be able to travel with the freedom it offers.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, however it's important to adhere to your airline's policies for transporting and stowing your chair on board the airplane. Contact the airline in advance to find out their policy on power chairs, and to inquire about any questions.
Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair for your flight, so long as you prepare it correctly to travel. Certain airlines may require you to recharge the batteries before boarding, and some will need to have a medical note on file before they will let you fly with your motorized chair. Some airlines will also require you to disassemble the battery-powered portion of your chair and put 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 airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, such as the owner's manual as well as any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the ticket counter or at the gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Provide the type of wheelchair you have and any necessary accessories, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage or the possibility of transferring it to the aircraft using an adapted cart. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book a direct flight to minimize the amount of times your equipment is moved between locations.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment as checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra fees for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. Take a photo of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.