Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair 101"The Complete" Guide For Beginners
Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair 101"The Complete" Guide For Beginners
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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several things you should consider when traveling with an electric chair. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you a lot of questions regarding your chair's dimensions, battery type and how it should be handled.
Be sure to have this information at hand before you leave for the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that are compliant with the requirements for air travel.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and stowed safely on airplanes. The FAA will approve them for air travel and they can be stored in the airplane as checked baggage. Furthermore, they will be able to navigate on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips brick or muddy roads. They may also have a patented power drive system that enables them to maneuver in tight spaces or lifts.
Airlines will provide assistance for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the boarding gate. It is important to call the airline ahead of time to ensure they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they can meet them. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of your departure time This is particularly important during busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes for the stowage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is limited and is first come, first serve. They also require that any additional batteries be checked as part of the scooter or wheelchair since federal regulations require that they be disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with an effective design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when you bring electric wheelchairs or scooters aboard their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour prior to your flight so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful information regarding your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to provide a safe and convenient way to travel. These power chairs are made to fold and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and stowage. 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 you with instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety and then place it into a carryon bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed, and that it is safely stowed upright.
Depending on the airline you use or airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following information including your name address, address, phone number and model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment in case it gets lost or mishandled during your trip. You may want to buy aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will allow you to remain in your seat during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
You should arrive at at minimum two hours prior to the departure time you have scheduled to ensure the proper stowage of your equipment is accomplished. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better, especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This allows you to arrive early and allows ample time for the representative of the airline to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you travel, take a picture of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage in pursuing compensation for damages from the airline. Consider bringing along a seat cushion to make the flight as comfortable as you can. The use of a cushion for your seat is essential for flights that last longer than an hour, because it will reduce pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is accepted by the airline can be daunting. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is achievable with right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Speak to an airline representative prior to making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best way to check into your seat whether at the ticket counter or the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour prior to your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure that it's safely and properly stored for your journey.
Depending on the model of your power chair It may be necessary to disassemble it prior to it is transported. If this is the case, it is helpful to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly in order to aid the staff of the airline handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. It is also recommended to take best electric wheelchairs off any detachable items prior to you go to the airport and also to ensure that all of the controls are in working order.
Once you arrive at an airport the electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and stowed. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra fees for the stowing of assistive devices like power chairs. This is a great feature for passengers with disabilities, since it allows them to save money.
An airline employee can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit down the aisle of the aircraft once the plane arrives. You will then be able to disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as you can, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
A trip with an electric chair can be daunting, but with careful planning and adhering to guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the thrill of exploring new locations without difficulty. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you are not comfortable in your chair, you'll never be able to enjoy the freedom that traveling affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for those who have mobility issues. If you have an electric or wheelchair could make your trip more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's policies regarding bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline in advance to learn about their policies on power chairs and to ask any questions.
Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, so long as you prepare it correctly for travel. Certain airlines may require you to recharge the batteries prior to boarding and some will need to have a medical note on file prior to being able to let you fly with your motorized chair. Some airlines may also require that you remove the battery-powered portion of your chair and then place it in an enclosure that is protected.
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 departure. It's important to bring any documentation, such as your owner manual and any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will make it easier for the process of checking in and will make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
Upon arriving at the ticket counter or gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Be sure to describe the kind of wheelchair you own and any accessories you require like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair for stowage or whether it will be transported to the plane using an adapted cart. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book an direct flight to cut down on the number times your equipment is moved between places.
When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment, just like checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for storing a wheelchair or scooter. Take a photograph of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.