Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are several things to consider. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you many questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have all of these details in hand prior to you leave for the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that comply with the regulations for air travel.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stowed on planes. They typically come with an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stowed underneath the plane as checked baggage. They will also be able move on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration stripes brick or muddy road. They could also be fitted with a patented drive system that permits them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the gate for boarding. It is crucial to contact the airline prior to your departure to ensure they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they are able to meet the requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive at least an hour prior to your departure time This is particularly important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is limited and operated on an initial-come first-serve basis. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected in conjunction with the scooter or wheelchair, since federal regulations require that they are disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a safe design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also request to check-in one hour prior to your flight time so that they can ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent information about your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure secure and comfortable travel. These power chairs are made to fold up and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in planning your travel itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information on 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. You can then 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 or airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following information such as your name address, address, phone number, and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it is stolen or damaged during your travels. You may also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which help you remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
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 if possible especially during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This lets you arrive early and allows ample time for the airline representative to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair prior to traveling. This serves as proof if your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for damages from the airline. You should consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to make the flight as comfortable as possible. Seat cushions are especially important for flights lasting over an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, the process of boarding a plane can be a daunting prospect. Traveling with a power chair is feasible with right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, talk to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can guide you in the right direction, whether you prefer to check-in your chair at the check here ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, it is recommended that you arrive at least one hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure that it is properly stowed to be ready for your trip.
Based on the model of chair you own It may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. In this situation, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the go to help airline employees who handle your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair, like the owner's manual and warranty information. Also, take off any removable items and make sure that all controls work before you leave for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the airplane. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra for the stowing of assistive devices like power chairs. This is a huge benefit for those who have disabilities, as it helps them avoid unnecessary costs.
An airline employee will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one click here that can be able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft when the plane lands. After disembarking, your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the shortest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft or at the jetbridge or the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with right planning and following the rules you can have fun exploring new places. The most important thing to remember is that if not comfortable moving around in your chair, you will not be able to fully take advantage of the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be extremely stressful for people who have mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, but it's important to click here adhere to the guidelines of your airline for bringing and stowing your chair on the airplane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact your airline prior to your travels to inquire about their policy and ask any questions.
Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair for your flight, as long as you prepare it properly for travel. Some airlines might require you to charge the batteries prior to boarding and some may require you to have a doctor's recommendation on file prior to being able to let you fly with your power chair. Some airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery powered portion of your chair, and place it in a case that is safe.
When you arrive at the airport, make 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 recommended to bring any documentation, like your owner's manual or 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 reach the airline ticket counter or gate, be sure to communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Explain the kind of wheelchair you own and any other accessories you may require, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will here be keeping your wheelchair in a separate cart or checking it for storage. If you're taking a transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, try to make a direct flight which will minimize the number of times that your equipment is moved between various locations.
After your get more info wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo compartment along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment is damaged, be sure to capture a photo before you leave the airport and immediately inform the airline.