Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few aspects to take into consideration when traveling with powered chairs. Airport and airline staff will ask you numerous questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have all this information at hand before you leave for the airport. Make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with the air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines can be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA can approve them for travel on planes, and they can be stowed under the plane as checked baggage. In addition, they will be able to move on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or muddy roads. They may also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending that allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter until the gate to board. It is important to contact the airline prior to your departure to ensure that they are aware of any special needs and confirm that they will be able to accommodate these requirements. Some airlines require that you arrive one hour prior to the departure time you have scheduled which is essential during busy travel periods.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is limited and is first come, first serve. Federal regulations also require that all extra batteries be inspected by a wheelchair or scooter. They must be removed unless they are specifically designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to taking an electric wheelchair or scooter aboard their flights. They also request that you check-in an hour prior to your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent information regarding your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure safe and convenient travel. They can be folded and comply with airline standards for battery size handling, stowage, and handling. If you plan to travel with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist in preparing your itinerary and give you the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with 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 carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed, and that it is safely stored upright.
Depending on your airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following information such as your name address, number and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it gets lost or is mishandled during your journey. You might also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will aid you in staying in your wheelchair while you travel with airline and airport personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours before your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better if more info possible particularly during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This allows you to arrive early and allows ample time for the representative of the airline to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you travel, take a picture of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during your flight. This will help you in obtaining compensation for any damages from the airline. You should also consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat, so that the flight is as comfortable as possible for you. The use of a cushion for your seat is especially important for flights that will last more than an hour, since get more info it will reduce pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline can be intimidating. However, with the proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, air travel with your power chair is possible.
Speak to an airline representative prior to making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They can assist you in 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, it is recommended to arrive at least an hour before your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to check your equipment and ensure it is safely stored for your trip.
Depending on the type of power chair you own It could be necessary to disassemble it for transport. In this case it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in hand to assist read more the airline personnel who will handle your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair, like the owner's manual or warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any detachable items prior to you go to the airport and to ensure all the controls are in working order.
When you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and then stowed. Airlines are more info not allowed to charge extra for the stowing of assistive devices like power chairs. This is an excellent benefit for passengers who have disabilities, as they can save money.
After the plane has landed, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to slide into the aisle of the aircraft. You will then be able to board the plane, and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as you can in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
It might be difficult to travel with an electric chair, but with right planning and following the rules, you can enjoy exploring new places. It is essential to keep in mind 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 people with mobility issues. If you're using a wheelchair or a scooter can make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it is essential to follow the airline's policies regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your departure to ask about their policy and get any questions answered.
Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, as that you prepare it properly for travel. Some airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a physician's letter prior to allowing you to fly with a power wheelchair. Some airlines will also require you to take apart the battery-powered portion 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 the time of departure to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documentation you might need to the airport, including your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will speed up check-in process and avoid confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the counter for tickets or gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Explain your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you may need, such as 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 using an adapted cart. If you're transferring to the plane using your electric wheelchair, make sure to book a direct flight, which will reduce the number of times that your equipment will be moved between locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo compartment with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you additional fees for the storage of your scooter or wheelchair, like they do with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, make sure you take a check here picture of it before you leave the airport and immediately inform the airline.