7 Essential Tips For Making The Most Out Of Your Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are many things to consider. The airport staff and the airline will inquire about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to handle it.
Make sure you have these details prepared before you travel to the airport. Make sure 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 transported and stowed safely on airplanes. The FAA will allow them to be used for use on flights, and they can be kept in the airplane as checked baggage. They will also be able move on rough surfaces such as deceleration stripes, gravel, brick or muddy road. They could also have a patented power drive system that allows them to navigate in tight spaces, or lifts.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the gates for boarding. It is essential to contact the airline prior to your departure to ensure they are aware of any specific needs and confirm that they are able to meet these requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour before your departure time which is crucial during busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes for the stowage of a wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is not large enough and it's first come, first serve. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected as part of the wheelchair or scooter, as federal regulations require that they are disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a secure design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour before your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather assembly/disassembly information and other helpful details about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure safe and convenient travel. These power chairs can be folded and are in line with airline standards for battery size handling, stowage, and handling. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in planning your travel plans and provide you with the latest information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety purposes and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed and that it is stored upright.
Depending on the airline you use depending on your airline, you might be required to label your wheelchair with the following details including your name address, address, phone number, and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment in case it should become lost or mishandled during your trip. You may also want to look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which help you remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airline and airport personnel.
You should arrive at at least 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 early and allows the airline representative plenty of time to help you stow your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair prior to traveling. This serves as proof if your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage in obtaining compensation for the damages from the airline. Consider bringing along cushions to make your flight as comfortable as you can. The use of a cushion for your seat is especially important for flights that last longer than an hour, because it will reduce pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, getting on a plane could be a daunting prospect. But, with the right preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, flying with your power chair is attainable.
Talk to an airline representative prior to making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best way to check-in your chair, whether it is at the ticket counter or the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour prior to your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure that it is properly stored for your trip.
Depending on the kind of chair you own It may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it is helpful to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions on hand to help the airline employees handling 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. You should also remove any removable accessories and ensure that all controls work before leaving for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and stowed. The airlines aren't allowed to charging an additional cost to store assistive devices like electric wheelchairs. This is a great benefit for people who have disabilities, as it helps them save money.
When the plane lands, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to slide into the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you can disembark, and your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the shortest possible location to the aircraft door or at the jetbridge or the gate.
The idea of using an electric chair can be daunting, but with the right planning and adherence to guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the thrill of exploring new destinations easily. It is essential to keep in mind that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to travel with the freedom it offers.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for those with mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the experience less stressful for you, however it's important to adhere to the policies of your airline regarding transporting and stowing your chair on the airplane. Contact the airline in advance to inquire about their policy on power chairs, and to ask any questions.
Most airlines allow you to bring an electric wheelchair on your trip as you've prepared it for travel. Some airlines might require you to recharge the batteries prior to boarding and some may require you to have a doctor's recommendation on file prior to being able to let you fly with your electric chair. Some airlines may also require that you remove the battery-powered portion of your chair and place it into an enclosure that is protected.
When you arrive at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's important to bring any documentation, including your owner's manual or instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid to the airport. This will make it easier for the check-in process and can help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
When electric wheelchair with joystick arrive at the ticket counter or at the gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide a description of your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you may require, such as seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage or if it will be transferred to the aircraft using a specialized cart. If you're going to transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, try to book a direct flight, which will minimize the amount of times your equipment will be transferred between locations.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment along with your checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. Take a photo of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.