Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are several things to take into consideration. Airport and airline staff will ask you a lot of questions regarding your chair's dimensions, battery type and how to handle it.
Make sure you have these details ready before you go to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that are compliant with the requirements for air travel.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and stowed securely on planes. The FAA will approve them for air travel and they can be stowed under the plane as checked baggage. They can also move on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes, bricks or muddy roads. They could also be equipped with a patented power drive system that permits them to maneuver in tight spaces or lifts.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the boarding gates. It is essential to call the airline ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of any specific needs and to confirm that they can meet the requirements. Some airlines require you to be at least an hour before your departure time, which is important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes for the stowage and storage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is not large enough, and it's first come, first served. The federal regulations also demand that all extra batteries be inspected by a scooter or wheelchair. They must be disconnected unless they are designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair on their flights. They also request that you check in an hour prior to your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful details about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure comfortable and safe travel. These power chairs can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline guidelines for battery size handling, stowage, and handling. If you plan to travel with your airline of preference, you should contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist you in planning your trip and give you the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide you with assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines ask that you remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is securely tucked away in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you use depending on your airline, you might be required to label your wheelchair with the following details: your name address, number, and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment in case it should become lost or mishandled during your trip. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will allow you to remain in your chair during transfers with airport personnel and airline personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. Arriving earlier than this is even better particularly during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and allows the airline representative plenty of time 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 on the flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for damages from the airline. power chair Consider bringing along a seat cushion to make the flight as comfortable as you possibly can. A seat cushion is especially important for flights that will last over an hour, as this will minimize pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane is mobility electric chair an intimidating electric wheelchair 25 stone experience. Air travel read more with a power chair is achievable with right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Talk to an airline representative before booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best way to check into your seat regardless of whether it's at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour before your flight is suggested. This allows get more info the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure it is safely stored to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the model of your power chair It may be necessary to disassemble it before it is transported. If this is the case, it's beneficial to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to help the staff of the airline handling your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair, like the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any accessories that can be removed prior to when you leave for the airport and to ensure all the controls are working properly.
When you arrive at an airport your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and stowed. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra for the stowing of assistive devices like power chairs. This is a great benefit for those with disabilities since it allows them to save money.
After the plane has landed in the air, a representative from the airline will be capable of transferring you from your power wheelchair to one that is able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you can disembark, and your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible location to the aircraft door, either at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
It might be difficult to travel in an electric chair, but with the right planning and following guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new places. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if uncomfortable in your chair, you will never take advantage of the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for passengers with mobility issues. If you have mobility scooters or wheelchairs could make your experience more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow the airline's guidelines regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to learn about their policies on power chairs and to ask any questions.
Most airlines will allow you to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight, so provided it's prepared for travel. Some airlines require that you charge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a doctor's letter before they will allow you to fly with a electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also require you to remove the battery-powered part of your chair and then place it in a case that is protected.
When you arrive at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours before your departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. It's important to bring any documentation, like your owner manual and any instructions for assembly or disassembly 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 wheelchair.
On arrival at the airline's ticket counter or gate, make certain to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Provide the type of wheelchair you have and any accessories you require, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be placing your wheelchair in a special cart or checking it for storage. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book an express flight to reduce the amount of times your equipment is moved between different locations.
Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo area along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of your wheelchair or scooter, like they do with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, make sure you take a photograph prior to leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.