What Is Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair And Why Is Everyone Speakin' About It?
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are many aspects to be considered. Airport and airline staff will ask you many questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have all of this information in your possession prior to you travel to the airport. Make sure 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?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and stowed securely on planes. They usually have an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be tucked under the plane as checked luggage. In addition they'll be able to navigate on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or muddy roads. They could also be fitted with a unique drive system which allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the boarding gates. However, it is essential to contact them ahead of time to make sure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet your needs. Some airlines require that you arrive one hour prior to your scheduled departure time This is crucial in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is limited and is first come, first serve. The federal regulations also require that all batteries added to the system be checked with the wheelchair or scooter. They must be disconnected unless they are designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask to check-in one hour prior to your flight so that they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions and other helpful information regarding your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to offer a safe and convenient way to travel. They can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the latest information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair for safety purposes and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is safely stowed in an upright position.
Based on your airline depending on your airline, you might be asked to label your wheelchair with the following information including your name, address, phone number and model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment if it is lost or damaged during your travels. You might also consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will help you remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
You should arrive at at minimum two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure proper stowage of your equipment is done. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better, especially during busy holiday times or during rush hour. MyMobilityScooters lets you check-in early and allows the representative of the airline plenty of time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair prior to travel. This will serve as proof if your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you the leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for damages. You should also think about bringing an extra cushion for your seat to ensure that your flight is as relaxing as possible for you. The use of a cushion for your seat is particularly important when you travel for over an hour, as this will minimize the pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those who travel with an airline approved electric wheelchair, boarding a plane can be an intimidating experience. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is feasible with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, speak to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the best direction, whether you prefer to get your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, it is recommended to arrive at least an hour before your flight. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it is properly stowed to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the kind of chair you own, it may be necessary to disassemble the chair for 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 also a good idea to attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair, including the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any detachable accessories before you go to the airport and to ensure all controls are functioning properly.
When you arrive at an airport the electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and stowed. The airlines aren't allowed to charging an additional cost to store assistive devices like electric wheelchairs. This is a great feature for those with disabilities since it allows them to avoid unnecessary expenses.
When the plane lands, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to slide in the aisle of the aircraft. After disembarking, your wheelchair will be returned to you at the nearest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with right planning and following the rules you will be able to enjoy exploring new places. It is essential to keep in mind that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair, you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it affords.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. If you're traveling with a wheelchair or a scooter could make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it's essential to follow the airline's policies regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to learn about their policies on power chairs, and to ask any questions.
Most airlines will allow you to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight as you've prepared it for travel. Certain airlines might require you to charge the batteries prior to boarding and some will require you to have a doctor's note on file before they will allow you to fly using your electric chair. Some airlines may also require that you remove the battery-powered part of your wheelchair, and place it in an enclosure that is protected.
Once you're at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours before the time of departure to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, including the owner's manual as well as any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid, to the airport. This will speed up check-in and prevent confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
On arrival at the 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, such as cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be keeping your wheelchair in a separate cart or checking it for stowage. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book an direct flight to cut down on the amount of times your equipment is moved between different locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo compartment along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment is damaged, be sure to take a picture of it before leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.