Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many aspects to take into consideration when traveling with powered chairs. Airport and airline staff will ask you a lot of questions regarding your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information ready before you go to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with air travel regulations.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be carried and stowed securely on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for use on flights and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to maneuver on rough surfaces like deceleration stripes, gravel, bricks or muddy roads. They could also have an exclusive power drive system that allows them to navigate in tight spaces, or lifts.
Airlines will assist you for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the gate for boarding. It is however important to contact them ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of your needs and to confirm that they are able to meet those requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour ahead of your scheduled departure This is particularly important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes that allows for the stowage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited and on an initial-come first-serve basis. They also require that any extra batteries be checked as part of the wheelchair or scooter, as federal regulations require that they are disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with a safe design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour before your flight, to ensure proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions as well as other useful details about your mobility or power chair. scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to provide a safe and convenient method of travel. These chairs are designed to fold and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling, and stowage. If you're planning to travel with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can help you plan your travel itinerary and provide you with the latest information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines ask that you remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed and it is stored upright.
Depending on the airline you fly with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, your address, your phone number, and your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment in case it should become lost or mishandled during your trip. 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 during transfers with airport personnel and airline personnel.
You should always arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to get more info your scheduled departure time to ensure the proper stowage of your equipment is accomplished. If possible you can arrive earlier than two hours before your scheduled departure time. This is especially crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This allows you to arrive early and allows plenty of time for the airline representative to assist you in stowing your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair before you travel. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you ability to seek compensation from the airline for any damages. It is also advisable to bring a seat cushion with you, so that the flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Seat cushions are especially important when you travel for more than an hour. They reduce pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.
Check-In
For those who travel with an approved electric wheelchair, boarding a plane can be a daunting prospect. Air travel with a power chair is feasible with proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Talk to an airline representative before making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best method to check in your chair regardless of whether it's at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour before your flight is recommended. This gives the airline ample time to inspect your equipment and ensure it will be safely towed for your trip.
Depending on the model of your power chair It could be necessary for you to disassemble it before transportation. If this is the case, it's helpful to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly available to assist airline personnel handling your chair. It is check here also an excellent idea to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair, such as the owner's manual as well as warranty information. It is also recommended to remove any accessories that are removable and check that all controls work 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 you an additional cost to store assistive devices, like power wheelchairs. This is a great feature for passengers with disabilities, because it can help them save money.
Once the plane is in the air at the airport, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to one that is able website to fit down the aircraft aisle. You will here then be able to disembark, and your power wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as is possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric chair can be daunting, but with the right planning and adherence to guidelines, it is possible to experience the joy of exploring new destinations with ease. The most important thing to remember is that if you're not comfortable moving around in your chair, you'll never enjoy the freedom that traveling affords.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for those with mobility issues. If you're traveling with a wheelchair or a scooter, it can make your trip more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow the airline's guidelines for the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to inquire about their policy regarding power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Most airlines will allow passengers to bring an electric wheelchair on your trip as long as it's properly prepared for travel. Certain airlines may require you to recharge the batteries prior to boarding and some will need to have a doctor's recommendation on file prior to being able to let you fly with your electric chair. Some airlines may also require that you take down the battery powered portion of your chair, and place it into a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours prior to the time of departure so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documentation you may require to the airport, like your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
On arrival at the counter for tickets or at here the gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility requirements. Discuss your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you may require like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or if it will be transferred to the plane using a specialized cart. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book an express flight to reduce the number times your equipment is moved between different locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo area along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair just as they would with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, make sure you capture a photo before leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.