Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are many things to consider. The airport staff and airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair, battery type, and how to use it.
Make sure you have all of this information at hand before you head to the airport. Make sure 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 ones that are designed to be carried and stowed safely on airplanes. The FAA can approve them for travel on planes and they can be stowed under the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore they'll be able to navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips, brick or muddy roads. They could also have a patent-pending power drive system that allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or lifts.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the boarding gates. It is crucial to contact the airline in advance to make sure they are aware of any specific needs and confirm that they can meet them. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of your scheduled departure which is crucial in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. This space is limited and is first come first served. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair, because federal regulations require they must be removed from the device unless it is equipped with an effective design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when bringing electric wheelchairs or scooters aboard their flights. They also ask to check-in one hour before your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other information about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are made for comfortable and safe travel. These power chairs are made to fold up and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling, and storage. If you're planning to travel with your airline of choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can help you plan your travel itinerary and provide you with the latest information on battery requirements. They can also give you assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair for safety purposes and place it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is secured in a upright position.
Depending on the airline you fly with depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, your address, your telephone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment in case it is lost or damaged during your travels. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will allow you to remain in your chair while you travel with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. If you are able, arrive at least two hours earlier than the time you plan to depart. This is especially important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This lets you check-in early and gives the airline representative plenty of time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair before you travel. This serves as proof if here your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you the possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for damages. You should consider bringing cushions to make the trip as comfortable as you possibly can. The use of a cushion for your seat is especially important for electric wheelchair chair flights that will last more more info than chairs electric an hour, since this will minimize the pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be daunting. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is possible with the right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the best direction, whether you prefer to get your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour before your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it is properly stored for your journey.
Based on the power chair you have, it may be necessary to disassemble the chair prior to transport. In this case it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in hand to assist the airline personnel who will handle your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair, like the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also recommended to remove any accessories that are removable and ensure that all controls are functioning before you depart for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the plane. The airlines are not allowed to charging an additional cost to store assistive devices, such as power wheelchairs. This is a great benefit for people with disabilities since it allows them to save money.
When the plane lands, 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. Then, you can disembark, and your powered wheelchair is returned website to you at the shortest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft or at the jetbridge or the gate.
A trip with an electric wheelchair can seem daunting, but with the right planning and adhering to the guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the thrill of exploring new destinations without difficulty. It is crucial to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to travel with the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be very stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. If you have mobility scooters or wheelchairs can make your trip more enjoyable. However, it's essential to follow the airline's guidelines for taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact the airline prior to your departure to inquire about their policies and get any questions answered.
Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair on your flight, so that you prepare it to travel. Certain airlines might require you to discharge the batteries before boarding, and some will need to have a medical note on file before they will allow you to fly using your power chair. Some airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered portion of your chair and then place it in a protective case.
Get to the airport at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure so that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to flight. It's important to bring any documentation, such as your owner manual and any assembly/disassembly instructions 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 wheelchairs.
On arrival at the airline's ticket counter or at the gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any other accessories you may require for example, seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be storing your wheelchair in a separate cart or checking it for stowage. If you're going to transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, try to take a direct flight which will reduce the number of times your equipment will be moved between various locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo area along with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair, like they do with your luggage. Take a picture of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.