Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several aspects to take into consideration when traveling with a powered chair. The airport staff and the airline will inquire about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Be sure to have all of these details in hand prior to you travel to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that are compliant with the requirements for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are able to be safely transported and stowed on planes. They typically come with a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stowed underneath the plane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to 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 that allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the gates for boarding. It is crucial to contact the airline in advance to make sure they are aware of any specific requirements and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate these requirements. 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 special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes that allows for the stowage and storage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. This space is limited and on an initial-come first-serve basis. The federal regulations also require that any additional batteries be inspected by a wheelchair or scooter. They must be disconnected unless they are designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour prior to your flight so that they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions and other helpful information about your mobility or power chair. scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to provide a safe and convenient way to travel. They can be folded and comply with airline guidelines for battery size handling, stowage, and handling. If you are planning to travel with your airline of choice, make contact with 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 regarding battery requirements. They can also provide you with instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines require that you 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 terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is securely tucked away in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you use, you may need to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, address, your phone number, and your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it is lost or mishandled on your trip. You may also want to look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that aid you in staying in your wheelchair 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 storage. If you are able be there at least two hours earlier than your departure time. This is especially important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This allows you to check in early and provides plenty of time for the airline representative to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair prior to travel. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for any damages. Consider bringing along a seat cushion to make your flight as comfortable as possible. Cushions for seats are essential for flights lasting over an hour. They reduce pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is accepted by the airline can be a daunting portable power chair task. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is achievable with proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Before booking your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best method to check in your chair whether at the ticket counter or the gate. In either case, it's recommended that you arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it's safely stored for your journey.
Depending on the model of your power chair It may be necessary to disassemble it before it is transported. In this case it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the table to aid airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any removable items and make sure that all controls are functioning before you depart for the airport.
When you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and then stowed. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra fees for the stowing of here assistive devices like power chairs. This is a huge benefit for those with disabilities since it allows them to save money.
An airline employee can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which will fit on the aircraft aisle when the plane arrives. You can then disembark and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the closest possible location to the door of the aircraft or at the jetbridge or the gate.
A trip with an electric wheelchair can seem intimidating, but with proper planning and adhering to the guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the thrill of exploring new places without difficulty. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you're not comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that travel offers.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for those with mobility issues. If you have an electric or wheelchair can make your trip more enjoyable. However, it is crucial to adhere to the airline's guidelines for taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline ahead of time to find out their policy regarding power chairs and to ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring an electric chair on your flight, so that you prepare it correctly for travel. Certain airlines might require you to recharge the batteries prior to boarding and some will require you to have a doctor's note on file prior more info to being able to check here allow you to fly using your electric chair. Some airlines may also require here that you take down the battery powered portion of your chair, and then place it in an enclosure that is protected.
When you arrive at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, such as the owner's manual as well as any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and avoid confusion regarding 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. Discuss your wheelchair and any other accessories you might require like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be storing your wheelchair in a separate cart or examining it for storage. If you're transferring to the plane with your electric wheelchair, try to make a direct flight which will cut down on the number of times your equipment will be transferred between different locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment as checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra fees for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. Take a photograph of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.