Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few things to consider when traveling with powered chairs. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you many questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have this information at hand before you leave for the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are able to be safely transported and stowed on planes. They usually have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel and can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. They can also navigate on rough surfaces, such as deceleration stripes, gravel, bricks or muddy roads. They may also be equipped 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 gates for boarding. However, it is important to contact them ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet those needs. Certain airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to your scheduled departure, which is especially important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes that allows for the stowage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. This space is limited and operated on the basis of first-come-first-serve. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected in conjunction with the scooter or wheelchair, because federal regulations require they must be removed from the device unless the chair is equipped with an effective design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to you bring an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require to check-in one hour before your flight so that they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions and other helpful information about your mobility or power chair. scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure comfortable and safe travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold up and comply with airline guidelines for 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 help you plan your itinerary and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines ask that you remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and put it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is securely tucked away in a upright position.
Depending on the airline you fly with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, your address, your number, and the wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it gets lost or damaged during your travels. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will help you remain in your chair during transfers with airport personnel and airline personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. If possible be there earlier than two hours prior to your departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This allows you to check in early and provides plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you in stowing your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair prior to traveling. This can be used as proof in the event that your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for any damages from the airline. You should also think about bringing a seat cushion with you so that your journey is as comfortable as possible for you. Seat cushions are especially important for flights that last more than an hour. They can reduce pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane is a daunting prospect. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is possible with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Before booking your flight, talk to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They will be able to guide you in the best direction, no matter if you prefer to get your seat at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour before your flight is recommended. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and make sure that it will be check here stowed safely for your trip.
Based on the model of power chair you have, it may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. If this is the case, it is beneficial to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions on hand to help the airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. Also, remove any removable accessories and check that all controls are functioning before you leave for the airport.
Once you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and then stowed. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra to store assistive devices, like electric chairs. This is a great feature for people with disabilities, as it helps them avoid costly expenses.
A representative from the airline will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can be able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft once the plane arrives. Then, you will be able to disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as possible, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric chair can be daunting, but with careful planning and adhering to the guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new locations with ease. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you are not comfortable in your chair, you'll not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that traveling provides.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for passengers who have mobility problems. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the experience less stress-inducing for you, but it's essential to follow your airline's policies for transporting and stowing your chair on board the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to inquire about their policy regarding power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Most airlines allow you to take an electric wheelchair on your flight as provided it's prepared for travel. Certain airlines might require you to recharge the batteries prior to boarding and some will require you to have a doctor's recommendation on file before they will let you fly with your motorized chair. Some airlines may also require you to disassemble the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair and place it inside a protective case.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before flight. It's important to bring any documentation, like 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 can prevent any confusion regarding your airline's wheelchair policies.
On arrival check here at the ticket counter or gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility requirements. Provide the kind of wheelchair you own and any other accessories you may require like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be keeping your wheelchair get more info in a specific cart or examining it for stowage. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book an express flight to reduce the number times your equipment is moved between places.
Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. Take a picture of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.