Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to take into consideration. The staff at the airport and airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions and battery type, as well as how to use it.
Make sure you have these details in hand prior to you head to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that comply with air travel regulations.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are able to be safely transported and stowed on planes. They usually have a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stowed underneath the plane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to move on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration stripes, roads that are muddy or brick. They could also have a patent-pending power drive system that allows them to move in tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the boarding gates. It is important to contact the airline in advance to ensure that they are aware of any specific requirements and to confirm that they can meet them. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour before the time of departure which is crucial in busy 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 not large enough and is first come, first served. The federal regulations also demand that all batteries added to the system be checked by the scooter or wheelchair. They must be shut off unless they are specifically designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to taking an electric wheelchair or scooter aboard their flights. They also require that you check in one hour before your flight, so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions as well as other useful information regarding your mobility or power chair. scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are made for comfortable and safe travel. These chairs are designed to fold up and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can assist you in preparing your itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also give you assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines require you to take the wheelchair's battery out of the way to ensure safety and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed and it is stored upright.
Depending on the airline you travel with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, your address, your number, and your wheelchair model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment in case it should become lost or mishandled during your trip. You may also want to think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that aid you in staying in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure heavy duty electric wheelchairs to ensure proper equipment stowage. If you are able you can arrive earlier than two hours prior to your departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This allows you to check in early and provides ample time for the representative of the airline to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you leave, take a picture of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage in obtaining compensation for the damages from the airline. Consider bringing along cushions to make your flight as comfortable as possible. The use of a cushion for your seat is especially important for flights that will last longer than an hour, because it will reduce pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane could be an overwhelming experience. However, with proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, air travel using your electric chair is possible.
Before booking your flight, talk to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best method click here to check into your seat whether at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour before your flight is suggested. This allows the airline plenty of time to inspect your equipment and make sure that it will be safely towed for your journey.
Depending on the model of your power chair, it may be necessary for you to disassemble it prior to it is transported. If this is the case, it is beneficial to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions on hand to help the airline personnel handling your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair, such as the owner's manual or warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any detachable items prior to you go to the airport and also to ensure that all the controls are working properly.
Once you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and stowed. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra for stowing assistive devices like electric chairs. This is a great feature for people with disabilities, since it allows them to save money.
Once the plane is in the air at the airport, an airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit in the aisle of the aircraft. You can then disembark and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the shortest possible location to the aircraft door cheapest electric wheelchairs or at the jetbridge or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with right planning and following the rules, you can enjoy exploring new destinations. It is crucial to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to travel with the freedom it affords.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for those with mobility problems. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, but it's essential to follow the guidelines of your airline for transporting and stowing your chair on board the airplane. Contact the airline prior to departure to learn about their policies on power chairs, and to ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, so long as you prepare it to travel. Certain airlines might require you to charge the batteries prior to boarding and some will require you to check here have a doctor's recommendation on file prior to being able to allow you to fly with your motorized chair. Some airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered part of your wheelchair and place it inside a protective case.
Get cheap electric wheelchairs to the airport at least two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before departure. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, such as your owner's manual or instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid to the airport. This will speed up check-in process and help avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the ticket counter of your airline or gate, make sure to explain your mobility needs clearly. Discuss your wheelchair and any other accessories you may need like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether they will be keeping your wheelchair in a special cart or checking it for storage. If you're going to transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, try to book a direct flight, which will minimize the number of times your equipment is moved between locations.
Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo area along with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair, the same way they would with your luggage. Take a picture of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.