Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are several aspects to be considered. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you a lot of questions regarding the dimensions of your chair, battery type and how it should be handled.
Make sure you have all of this information in your possession prior to you head to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that comply with the air travel regulations.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines can be safely transported and stored on planes. They will typically have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel and can be tucked under the plane as checked baggage. They will also be able move on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes, bricks or muddy roads. They may also have a patent-pending power drive system that allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the gates for boarding. It is essential to contact the airline prior to your departure to ensure they are aware of any specific requirements and to confirm that they can meet these requirements. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of the time of departure, which is especially important during busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes for the stowage and storage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is not large enough and it's first come first served. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair because federal regulations require they be disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with an effective design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require that you check in one hour before your flight, to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions as well as other useful information about your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to offer the most secure and comfortable way to travel. These power chairs are made to fold, and they comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling, and stowage. If you are 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. They can assist you in planning your travel plans and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety. You can then put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed and that it is placed upright.
Depending on the airline you use, you may need to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, your address, your telephone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment if it should become lost or mishandled during your trip. You may also want to think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that aid you in staying in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure the proper storage of your equipment is done. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better particularly during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This allows you to check in earlier and gives ample time for the representative of the airline to assist here you with the stowing of your chair.
Before you travel, take a picture of check here your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your device is damaged during your flight. This will give you the ability to seek compensation from the airline for damages. It is also advisable to bring an extra cushion for your seat, so that the flight website is as comfortable as possible for you. A seat cushion is especially important when you travel for more than an hour, since it will reduce pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline can be daunting. But, with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, traveling with a power chair is attainable.
Talk to an airline representative prior to booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They'll be able to help you navigate in the right direction, regardless of whether you prefer to check-in your seat at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, it is advised to arrive at least an hour before your flight. This gives the airline ample time to examine your equipment and ensure it will be safely towed for your journey.
Depending on the model of your power chair It could be necessary to disassemble it before transportation. In this situation it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the table to aid airline employees who handle your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair, such as the owner's manual or warranty information. Also, remove any accessories that are removable and ensure that all controls are functioning before you leave for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport the electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and stowed. The airlines are not allowed to charging an additional cost to store assistive devices like electric wheelchairs. This is a wonderful benefit for passengers with disabilities, since it allows them to avoid costly expenses.
A representative from the airline will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit down the aircraft aisle when the plane arrives. You can then disembark and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the closest click here possible place to the doorway of the aircraft or at the jetbridge or at the gate.
It might be difficult to travel with an electric chair, but with right planning and following the rules you can have fun exploring new destinations. It is important to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to enjoy the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for passengers who suffer from mobility problems. If you're using an electric or wheelchair could make your trip more enjoyable. However, it is essential to follow the airline's guidelines regarding taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact your airline before your trip to ask about their policy and to get any questions answered.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, so that you prepare it properly for travel. Some airlines might require you to charge the batteries prior to boarding and check here some may require you to have a medical note in order to let you fly with your motorized chair. Certain airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery-powered portion of your chair, and then place it in a case that is safe.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your departure. Bring any documentation you might need to the airport, such as your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will make it easier for the check-in process and make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
When you arrive at the counter for tickets or gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Explain your wheelchair and any accessories you might require like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage or the possibility of transferring it to the plane using an appropriate cart. If you're going to transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, you should try to make a direct flight which will reduce the amount of times your equipment is moved between various 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 does not permit airlines to charge you extra to store your wheelchair or scooter, just as they would with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, make sure you take a photograph before you leave the airport and immediately notify the airline.