Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are several things to take into consideration. The staff at the airport and airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to handle it.
Make sure you have all this information at hand before you leave for the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that comply with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and stowed safely on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for air travel, and they can be stored in the airplane as checked baggage. They can also navigate on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration stripes, bricks or muddy roads. They can also be equipped with a patented drive system which allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the gate to board. It is important to call the airline ahead of time to ensure they are aware of any specific needs and to confirm that they can meet the requirements. Some airlines require you to be at least one hour prior to the departure time you have scheduled This is crucial during busy travel periods.
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 operates on an initial-come first-serve basis. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair, as federal regulations require that they are disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a secure design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require that you check in an 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 give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions as well as other useful information regarding your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed for comfortable and safe travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold, and they comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling, and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the latest information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety and then place it into a carryon bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals aren't exposed, and that it is safely placed upright.
Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, your address, your phone number, and your wheelchair model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment if it gets lost or mishandled during your trip. You may also want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that aid you in staying in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. Arriving earlier than this is even better particularly during busy holiday times or during lightweight wheelchairs electric 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.
Before you leave to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during the flight. This will help you in obtaining compensation for damages from the airline. You should consider bringing cushions to make your flight as comfortable as you can. The use of a cushion for your seat is essential when you travel for longer than an hour, because this will minimize pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been accepted by the airline can be a daunting task. Traveling with a power chair is feasible with proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, speak to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. electric wheelchair power chair They can help you figure out the best method to check into your seat, whether it is at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour before your flight is suggested. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and ensure it is safely stored for your trip.
Depending on the model of your power chair, it may be necessary for you to disassemble it before transport. If this is the case, it is beneficial to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly in order to aid the airline personnel handling your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair, including the owner's manual or warranty information. You should also remove any removable accessories and make sure that all controls work before you leave for the airport.
Once you arrive at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the airplane. Airlines are not permitted to charge you extra to store assistive devices, like power chairs. This is a great benefit for those with disabilities as it helps them avoid costly expenses.
Once the plane is in the air at the electric powered wheelchairs airport, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to fit in the aisle of the aircraft. You will then be able to board the plane, and your wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as is possible in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with right planning and following guidelines you can have fun exploring new locations. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you are uncomfortable in your chair, you'll not be able to fully take advantage of the freedom that travel affords.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for people with mobility issues. If you're using a wheelchair or a scooter can make your travel experience 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 ahead of time to inquire about their policy on power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring check here a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight, so long as it's properly prepared for travel. Certain airlines might require you to charge the batteries prior to boarding and some will require you to have a doctor's recommendation on file prior to being able to let you fly with your power chair. Certain airlines may also require you to disassemble the battery-powered portion of your chair and put it in a case that is protected.
Once you're at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours prior to the time of departure to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. It's important to bring any documentation, like your owner's manual or assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will help speed up the process of checking in and will prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
If you are at the airline ticket counter or gate, be sure you communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Explain your wheelchair and any accessories you might require like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be placing your wheelchair in a separate cart or examining it for stowage. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book a direct flight to minimize the amount of times your equipment is moved between locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded check here onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo compartment along with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you additional fees for the storage of your scooter or wheelchair, just as they would with your luggage. Take a picture of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.