Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several things to consider when traveling with an electric chair. The staff at the airport and at the airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to use it.
Be sure to have all this information in your possession prior to you head to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that comply with the air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines can be safely transported and stowed on planes. They will typically have an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stowed underneath the plane as checked luggage. They will also be able navigate 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 navigate in tight spaces, or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the boarding gates. It is however important to contact them prior to time to make sure they are aware of your requirements and confirm that they can meet those needs. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of the time of departure This is particularly important during busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. This space is limited and is first come, first serve. The federal regulations also demand that all extra batteries be inspected by a 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 require to check-in one hour before your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions as well as other useful information about your mobility or power chair. scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed for comfortable and safe travel. These chairs are designed to fold and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and stowage. If you're planning to travel with the airline of your choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist in planning your trip and give you the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety. You can then 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 fly with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, your address, your phone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it gets lost or is damaged during your travels. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to allow you to remain in your seat during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. Arriving earlier than this is even better if possible especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This lets you arrive early and allows plenty of time for the airline representative 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 wheelchair is damaged on the flight. This will give you possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for any damages. You should also consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat so that your journey is as relaxing as possible for you. A seat cushion is essential for flights that last over an hour, as it reduces read more pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been accepted by the airline can be daunting. Traveling with a power chair is possible with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Before booking your flight, talk to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best method to check into your seat, whether it is at the counter for tickets or the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour before your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure that it is properly and properly stored to be ready for your trip.
Depending on your power chair, it may be necessary to disassemble it before transport. If this is the case, it's beneficial to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions available to assist staff of the airline handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. Also, take off any removable items and ensure that all controls are functioning before you depart for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. Airlines are not permitted to charge you extra for the stowing of assistive devices like power chairs. This is a huge benefit for those with disabilities since it allows them to save money.
After the plane has landed at the airport, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your power wheelchair to one that can fit in the aisle of the aircraft. After disembarking, your wheelchair will be returned to you at the shortest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with the right planning and following the rules you can have fun exploring new locations. 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 affords.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stress-inducing for you, but it's important to adhere to the guidelines of your airline for transporting and stowing your chair on the airplane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your travels to inquire about their policy and get any questions answered.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, so long as you prepare it to travel. Some airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a doctor's letter to allow you to fly with a electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also require you to disassemble the battery-powered part of your chair and put it inside a protective case.
Get to the airport at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to flight. Bring any documentation you might require to the airport, like your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will speed up check-in process and help avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
On arrival at the airline's ticket counter or gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Explain 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 the possibility of transferring it to the aircraft with an adapted cart. If you're going to transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, try to make a direct flight which will minimize the amount of times your equipment will be transferred between locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo area along with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of your scooter or wheelchair, like they do with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, make sure you capture a photo before you leave the airport and immediately notify the airline.