Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few aspects to take into consideration when traveling with a powered chair. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you numerous questions regarding your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Be sure to have these details in hand prior to you head to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that are compliant with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stowed on planes. They typically come with non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel and can be stored under the plane as checked luggage. In addition, they will be able to navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or roads that are muddy. They may also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending that permits them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate to board. It is important to contact the airline prior to your departure to ensure that they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they can meet the requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour ahead of your scheduled departure, which is especially important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes for the stowage and storage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited and it's first come first served. Federal regulations also require that any additional batteries be inspected by a scooter or wheelchair. They must be disconnected unless they are specifically designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when you bring electric wheelchairs or scooters on their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour before your flight so that 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 approved by airlines are designed to provide an efficient and safe method of travel. These power chairs are made to fold up and meet airline guidelines regarding 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. They can assist in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety and then place it into a carryon bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed and it is placed upright.
Depending on the airline you use depending on your airline, you might be required to label your wheelchair with the following information such as your name, address, phone number, and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it is stolen or mishandled during your journey. You may also want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which help you remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport 2 hours before your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. Arriving earlier than this is even better, especially during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and allows the airline representative ample time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you leave, take a picture of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your wheelchair is damaged on the flight. This will give you ability to seek compensation from the airline for damages. It is also advisable to bring an extra cushion for your seat so that your journey is as relaxing as possible for you. The use of a cushion for your seat is particularly important for flights that will last more than an hour, since this will minimize the pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, the process of boarding a plane can be a daunting prospect. Air travel with a power chair is feasible with right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Speak to an airline representative before making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best way to check into your seat, whether it is at the ticket counter or the gate. In either case, it's recommended that you arrive at least one hour before your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure that it's safely stored for your journey.
Based on the power chair you have, it may be necessary to disassemble it before it is transported. In this instance it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the table to aid airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any removable items and ensure that all controls work before you depart for the airport.
Once you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra fees to store assistive devices, like power chairs. This is a huge benefit for people with disabilities since they can avoid unnecessary costs.
A mymobilityscooters.uk representative from the airline can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit down the aisle of the aircraft when the plane lands. You can then disembark and your wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible location to the aircraft door, either at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with the right planning and following the rules you will be able to enjoy exploring new places. The most important thing to remember is that if not comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that travel affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. If you have a wheelchair or a scooter, it can make your trip more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow the airline's guidelines regarding taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline in advance to learn about their policies on power chairs, and to inquire about any questions.
Most airlines will let you bring an electric chair on your flight, so provided you prepare it properly to travel. Certain airlines may require you to charge the batteries before boarding, and some will need to have a doctor's recommendation on file before they will allow you to fly with your motorized chair. Some airlines may also require you to remove the battery-powered portion of your chair and then place it in a case that is protected.
Arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before flight. It's important to bring any documentation, including the owner's manual as well as any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
On arrival at the airline's ticket counter or at the gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide the type of wheelchair you have and any accessories you require, such as cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be storing your wheelchair in a special cart or examining it for storage. If you're going to transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, you should try to make a direct flight which will minimize the amount of times your equipment will be transferred between locations.
Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra for storing a wheelchair or scooter. Take a picture of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.