Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several things to consider when traveling with a powered chair. The airport staff and at the airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair, battery type, and how to use it.
Be sure to have all these details in hand prior to 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?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stored on planes. They typically come with an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stowed underneath the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore they'll be able to navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips brick or roads that are muddy. They could also be equipped with a patented power drive system that enables them to navigate in tight spaces, or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the boarding gates. However, it is essential to contact them prior to time to make sure they are aware of your requirements and confirm that they can meet your needs. Some airlines require you to arrive one hour prior to the departure time you have scheduled, which is important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of a wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is limited and operated on a first-come, first-serve basis. Federal regulations also require that all extra batteries be checked with the wheelchair or scooter. They must be disconnected unless they are designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also request to check-in at least an hour before your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions and other helpful information regarding your mobility or power chair. scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed for secure and comfortable travel. They can be folded and comply with airline guidelines regarding battery size handling, stowage, and handling. If you plan to travel with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the latest information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require you to remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed and it is stored upright.
Based on your airline 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 allow airline and airport personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment in case it should become lost or damaged during your travels. You may want to buy aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will help you remain in your seat during transfers with airport personnel and airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. If you are able, arrive earlier than two hours before the time you plan to depart. This is especially important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This allows you to check in earlier and gives plenty of time for the airline representative to assist you in stowing your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair prior to traveling. This serves as proof if your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage in pursuing compensation for the damages from the airline. Consider bringing along a seat cushion to make your flight as comfortable as possible. Seat cushions are especially important for flights lasting over an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, the process of boarding a plane can be an overwhelming experience. But, with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, air travel with your power chair is possible.
Speak to an airline representative prior to making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you in the best direction, regardless of whether you prefer to check-in your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour before your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure it is safely and properly stored for your journey.
Depending on the kind of power chair you own It may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. In this case it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the go to help airline personnel who will handle your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair, like the owner's manual as well as warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable items prior to you go to the airport and to ensure all the controls are functioning properly.
When you arrive at the airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and stowed. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra fees for stowing assistive devices such as electric chairs. This is a great benefit for passengers with disabilities since it allows them to save money.
When the plane lands at the airport, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to fit in the aisle of the aircraft. You can then disembark and your wheelchair more info is returned to you at the shortest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric wheelchair may seem daunting, but with the right planning and adherence to guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the thrill of exploring new locations easily. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if uncomfortable in your chair, you will not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be extremely stressful for those who have mobility issues. If you're traveling with an electric or wheelchair, it can make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow the airline's policies regarding taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact the airline prior to your departure to ask about their policy and to get any questions answered.
Many airlines will allow you to take an electric wheelchair on your trip as you've prepared it for travel. Certain airlines might require you to charge the batteries prior to boarding and some may require you to have a medical note in chairs electric order to allow you to fly with your motorized chair. Some airlines may also require that you remove the battery powered portion of your chair and place it in a case that is safe.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair more info prior to your flight. Bring any documents you need to the airport, including check here your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in process and avoid confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you reach the airline ticket counter or at the gate, be sure you be able to clearly communicate your click here mobility needs. Provide a description of your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you might require, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or the possibility of transferring it to the aircraft with an adapted cart. If you're transferring to the plane using your electric wheelchair, you should try to take a direct flight which will reduce the amount of times your equipment will be transferred between locations.
Once your wheelchair is in 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 extra to store your scooter or wheelchair the same way they would with your luggage. Take a photograph of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.