Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are several things to consider. Airport and airline staff will ask you numerous questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information in your possession prior to you head to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that comply with the air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and stowed securely on airplanes. They usually have a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be tucked under the plane as checked baggage. Additionally they'll be able to move on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or roads that are muddy. They could also have an exclusive power drive system that enables them to move in tight spaces or lifts.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the boarding gates. It is important to call the airline ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they are able to meet them. Certain airlines require you to be at least 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 cabin of passengers of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited and operated on an initial-come first-serve basis. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected in conjunction with the scooter or wheelchair since federal regulations require that they are disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with a secure design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask to check-in one hour before your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent information about your mobility or power chair. scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed for safe and convenient travel. These power chairs can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline standards for battery size and handling, as well as stowage. If you plan to travel with the airline of your choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist in planning your itinerary and give you the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines require you to take the wheelchair's battery out of the way to ensure safety and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed and that it is placed upright.
Depending on your airline depending on your airline, you might be asked to label your wheelchair with the following information such as your name address, address, phone number and model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it is lost or damaged during your trip. You may want to buy aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will assist you in staying in your chair during transfers with airport personnel and airline personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at at least two hours prior to the time of departure here to ensure that the proper storage of your equipment is completed. If you are able you can arrive earlier than two hours prior to the time you plan to depart. This is especially crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This allows you to arrive early and allows ample time for the airline representative to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you leave, take a picture of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will help you in pursuing compensation for any damages from the airline. It is also advisable to bring cushions for your seats to ensure that your flight is as relaxing as possible for you. Seat cushions are especially important when you travel for more than an hour. They reduce pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling with an airline approved electric here wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane is an overwhelming experience. Traveling with a power chair is feasible with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Before booking your flight, speak to an airline representative to find out read more more about their policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best way to check-in your chair whether at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour before your flight is recommended. This allows the airline plenty of time to inspect your equipment and make sure that it is safely stored to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the type of power chair you have It could be necessary to disassemble it for transport. In this instance it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the go to help airline employees who handle your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. Also, remove any accessories that are removable and check whether all controls function before you depart for the airport.
Once you arrive at the airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and stowed. The airlines are not allowed to charging you a cost to store assistive devices, such as power wheelchairs. This is a great benefit for passengers with disabilities since they can avoid costly expenses.
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 can fit down the aircraft aisle. You can then disembark and your wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft or at the jetbridge or the gate.
It might be difficult to travel with an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new destinations. The most important thing to remember is that if not comfortable in your chair, you'll never enjoy the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for those who have mobility problems. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stressful for you, but it is important to follow the policies of your airline regarding transporting and stowing your chair on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to inquire about their policy on power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to take a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight, so provided it's prepared for travel. Some airlines might require you to charge the batteries before boarding, and some may require you to have a doctor's recommendation on file prior to being able to allow here you to fly using your electric chair. Some airlines will also require you to remove the battery-powered part of your wheelchair and place it in a case that is protected.
When you arrive at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours prior to your departure time to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documentation you may require to the airport, get more info such as your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in and prevent confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
Upon arriving at the ticket counter or at the gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Explain your wheelchair and any accessories you might require, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or whether it will be transported to the aircraft with an appropriate cart. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book an express flight to reduce the number times your equipment is moved between different locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment as checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair, like they do with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, be sure to take a photograph prior to leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.