Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to take into consideration. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you many questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have these details prepared before you travel to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that comply with the requirements for air travel.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and stowed safely on planes. They usually have an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stowed underneath the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore, they will be able to navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or muddy roads. They could also be fitted with a drive system that is patent-pending which allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter until the gate to board. However, it is essential to contact them prior to time to ensure they are aware of your requirements and confirm that they can meet your needs. Certain airlines require you to be at least an hour before the departure time you have scheduled, which is important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes that allows for the stowage and storage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is limited and it's first come first served. The federal regulations also require that any additional batteries be checked by the wheelchair or scooter. They must be removed unless they are designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also request to check-in one hour prior to your flight so that they can ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather assembly/disassembly information and other helpful information about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure comfortable and safe travel. These chairs are designed to fold and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in planning your trip 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 a straight position.
Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, your address, your telephone number, and your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it gets lost or is mishandled on your trip. You may want to buy aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to help you remain in your seat during transfers with airport personnel and airline personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better particularly during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This allows you to arrive early and allows ample time for the airline representative to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you travel to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage in obtaining compensation for the damages from the airline. It is also advisable to bring an extra cushion for your seat to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as it can be for you. The use of a cushion for your seat is especially important for flights that last over an hour, as this will minimize pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline may be a daunting task. However, with the proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, air travel with your power chair read more is possible.
Talk to an airline representative before making read more your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They will be able to guide you in the best direction, no matter if you prefer to get your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour prior to your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure that it's safely stored for your journey.
Depending on the model of your power chair It could be necessary to disassemble the chair prior to transportation. In this instance it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to assist the airline personnel handling your chair. Attach check here any safety or maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. Also, remove any accessories that are removable and make sure whether all controls function before leaving for the airport.
When you arrive at an airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging an additional fee to stow assistive devices, such as more info power wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for those with disabilities as they can save money.
An airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which can be able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft once the plane arrives. Then, you will be able to get off the plane and your wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as is possible, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric wheelchair may seem intimidating, but with proper planning and adhering to the guidelines, it is possible to experience the joy of exploring new locations without difficulty. The most important thing to remember is read more that if not comfortable moving around in your chair, you'll not be able to fully take advantage of the freedom that travel affords.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for people who have mobility issues. If you're traveling with an electric or wheelchair could make your experience more enjoyable. However, it's essential to follow the airline's guidelines for taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline in advance to learn about their policies on power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, so provided you prepare it properly to travel. Certain airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will need a doctor's letter to allow you to travel with your powered wheelchair. Some airlines will also require you to disassemble the battery-powered part of your chair and then place it inside a protective case.
When you arrive at the airport, make sure you arrive at least two hours prior to your scheduled 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 of your mobility aid to the airport. This will help speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
When you arrive at the ticket counter of your airline or gate, be sure you be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide 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 be keeping your wheelchair in a separate cart or checking it for stowage. If you're transferring to the plane with your electric wheelchair, you should try to take a direct flight which will cut down on the amount of times your equipment will be transferred between locations.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment, just like checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra fees for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. Take a photo of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.