Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few things you should consider when traveling with an electric chair. Airport and airline staff will ask you a lot of questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have this information prepared before you travel to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that meet the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and stowed securely on airplanes. They usually have an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be tucked under the plane as checked baggage. They can also move on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes, roads that are muddy or brick. They could also have an exclusive power drive system that permits them to navigate in tight spaces, or elevators.
Airlines will assist you with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the gate for boarding. It is however important to contact them prior to time to make sure they are aware of your needs and to confirm that they are able to meet your needs. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour before your scheduled departure which is crucial during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes for the stowage of a mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited and is first come, first serve. The federal regulations also require that all extra batteries be inspected by a scooter or wheelchair. They must be removed unless they are designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair on their flights. They also require that you check in an hour before your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions and other helpful details about your mobility or power chair. scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure secure and comfortable travel. They can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline standards for battery size handling, stowage, and handling. If you're planning to fly with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can help you plan your itinerary and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair for safety purposes and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed and that it is safely stowed upright.
Depending on the airline you use depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, your address, your phone number, and the wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event that it is stolen or mishandled during your journey. You may want to buy aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will assist you in staying in your chair during transfers with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure to ensure proper equipment storage. Being earlier than that is even better, especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This lets you arrive early and allows ample time for the representative of the airline to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair prior to travel. This can be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will help you in obtaining compensation for any damages from the airline. Consider bringing along cushions to make the trip as comfortable as possible. Cushions for seats are essential for flights lasting over an hour. They reduce the pressure on your skin making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane could be an intimidating experience. Air travel with a power chair is achievable with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the best direction, no matter if you prefer to get your seat at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour prior to your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it's safely stowed for your trip.
Depending on the type of power chair you own It could be required to disassemble it prior to transport. In this case it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the go to help airline employees who handle your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any detachable items prior to you travel to the airport and also to ensure that all controls are in working order.
Once you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you an additional fee to stow assistive devices, such as power wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for people with disabilities since it helps them avoid costly expenses.
A representative from the airline will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit down the aisle of the aircraft when the plane lands. After disembarking, your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the shortest possible location to the door of the aircraft or at the jetbridge or the gate.
A trip with an electric wheelchair can seem daunting, but with the right planning and adherence to guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new locations with ease. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you're uncomfortable in your chair, you'll never take advantage of the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for people who suffer from mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, however it's essential to follow your airline's policies for bringing and stowing your chair on board the airplane. Contact the airline ahead more info of time to inquire about their policy on power chairs, and to ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring an electric chair on your flight, so long as you prepare it correctly for travel. Certain airlines may require you to charge the batteries before get more info boarding, and some may require you to have a doctor's note in order to allow you to fly using your electric chair. Some airlines may also demand that you disassemble the battery-powered part of your wheelchair, and place it into a case that is safe.
Once you're at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. Bring any documentation you might need to the airport, such as your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will speed up check-in and prevent confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
On arrival at the ticket counter or gate, be sure to communicate here clearly your mobility needs. Explain your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you may need for example, sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair for stowage or the possibility of transferring it to the aircraft with an adapted cart. If you're taking a transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, make sure to book a direct flight, which will reduce the number of times your equipment will be transferred between various locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo area along with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you additional fees for the storage of your wheelchair or scooter, like they do with your luggage. Take a photograph of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.