Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to consider. Airport and airline staff will ask you numerous questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have this information ready prior to your trip to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that comply with air travel regulations.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed 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 and can be tucked under the plane as checked luggage. They can also move on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration stripes 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 scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the boarding gate. It is however important to contact them ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of your needs and to confirm they can meet your needs. Certain airlines require you to arrive at least an hour prior to your scheduled departure, which is especially important during busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is not large enough and is first come, first serve. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected in conjunction with the wheelchair or scooter, as federal regulations require that they be disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with an effective design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before taking an electric wheelchair or scooter on their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour before your flight, so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent details about your mobility or power chair. scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to offer an efficient and safe method of travel. These power chairs are made to fold, and they meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling, and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in preparing your itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety purposes and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is secured in an upright position.
Depending on your airline depending on your airline, you might be required to label your wheelchair with the following details including your name, address, phone number and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it is lost or damaged during your travels. You may want to buy aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will assist you in staying in your chair while you travel with airport personnel and airline personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours before your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. If you can be there earlier than two hours before your departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and allows the airline representative plenty of time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair prior to traveling. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for the damages from the airline. You should also consider bringing cushions for your seats to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as it can be for you. Seat cushions are particularly important when you travel for more than an hour. They will reduce pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been accepted by the airline can be intimidating. But, with the right preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, air travel with a power chair is feasible.
Contact an airline representative prior to booking heavy duty power chair your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide power chairs you in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to make your seat at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it is recommended to arrive at least one hour before your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure it is safely stored to be ready for your trip.
Depending on your power chair It may be necessary for you to disassemble it before transportation. If this is the case, it is beneficial to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly available to assist staff of the airline handling your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair, like the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any detachable items prior to you go to the airport and to ensure all of the controls are functioning properly.
When you arrive at the airport the electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and then stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge you extra to store assistive devices, such as electric chairs. This is a huge benefit for passengers with disabilities since they can avoid unnecessary costs.
A representative from the airline can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which can be able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft once the plane lands. You will then be able to board amazon power chairs the plane, and your wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as is possible in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with the right planning and following the rules you will be able to enjoy exploring new destinations. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you are uncomfortable in your chair, you'll never enjoy the freedom that travel offers.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for people here with mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, but it's important to adhere to the guidelines of your airline for the transportation and storage of your chair on the plane. Contact the airline in advance to find out their policy on power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Most read more airlines will let you bring an electric chair on your flight, so that you prepare it for travel. Some airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will need a doctor's letter before they will allow you to fly with your electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also demand that you take down the battery-powered portion of your chair and then place it in an enclosure that is protected.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at least two hours before 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 on the assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will speed up check-in and prevent confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the counter for tickets to airline or gate, be sure you explain your mobility needs clearly. Explain your wheelchair and any other accessories you may need for example, seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage or the possibility of transferring it to the plane using a specialized cart. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book an direct flight to cut down on the number of times your device is moved between different locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it will be 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 a scooter or wheelchair. Take a picture of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.