Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few things you should consider when traveling with powered chairs. The airport staff and airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to handle it.
Make sure you have these details prepared before you travel to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are able to be safely transported and stored on planes. They usually have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel and can be tucked under the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore they'll be able to maneuver on rough surfaces such as 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 gates for boarding. However, it is important to contact them ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of your needs and to confirm that they are able to meet those requirements. Certain 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 compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is not large enough, and it's first come first served. The federal regulations also require that any additional batteries be checked by the scooter or wheelchair. 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 that you check-in an hour before your flight, to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions as well as other useful information regarding your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are made for comfortable and safe travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold up and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and storage. If you're planning to fly 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 trip and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety. You can then put it into a carryon bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that the battery is securely tucked away in a straight position.
Depending on the airline you fly with depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, address, your number, and the wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it is lost or mishandled during your journey. You may want to buy aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will assist you in staying in your seat during transfers with airport personnel and airline personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the departure time you have scheduled to ensure proper stowage of your equipment is completed. Arriving earlier than this is even better if possible particularly during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and gives the representative of the airline plenty of time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair before you travel. This can be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you the leverage to pursue compensation from the airline in case of damages. Consider bringing along a seat cushion to make the flight as comfortable as you can. Seat cushions are especially important for flights lasting over an hour. They reduce the pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, boarding a plane can be a daunting prospect. However, with proper preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, traveling using your electric chair is possible.
Contact an airline representative prior to making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best way to check in your chair whether at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour prior to your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure that it's safely stowed for your trip.
Depending on the kind of power chair you own It could be necessary to disassemble it here for transport. In this case, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the go to help airline personnel who will handle your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. You should also take off any removable items and make sure that all controls are functioning before you depart for the airport.
Once you arrive at the airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and then stowed. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you click here an additional cost to store assistive devices, such as power wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for passengers with disabilities, since it allows them to avoid costly expenses.
Once the plane is in the air at the airport, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit in the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you can disembark, and your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible location to the door of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or the gate.
It might be difficult to travel in an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new places. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if not comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that traveling offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for those who have mobility issues. If you're using an electric or wheelchair can make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow here the airline's guidelines regarding bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your travels to ask about their policy and get any questions answered.
Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, so long as you prepare it for travel. Some airlines require that you charge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will need a doctor's letter to allow you to travel with your electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also demand that you take down the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair, and place it into an enclosure that is protected.
Get to the airport at least two hours before the time of departure to ensure that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before departure. It's important to bring any documentation, such as the owner's manual as well as any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid to the airport. This will make it easier for the check-in process and help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
When you arrive at the airline's ticket counter or gate, make certain to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Discuss your wheelchair and any other accessories you might require, such as seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or the possibility of transferring it to click here the aircraft using an adapted cart. If you're transferring to the plane using your electric wheelchair, make sure to book a direct flight, which will reduce the amount of times your equipment is moved between locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment, just like checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits electric automatic wheelchair the airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. If your equipment is damaged, make sure you capture a photo before leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.