Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are many things to take into consideration. The staff at the airport and the airline will inquire about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information ready before you go to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that comply with the air travel regulations.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines can be safely transported and stowed on planes. They typically come with non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel. They can be tucked under the plane as checked baggage. Additionally they'll be able to maneuver on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or roads that are muddy. They can also be equipped with a patented drive system which allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate for boarding. It is essential to call the airline ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of any special needs and to confirm that they can meet the requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour before your departure time This is crucial during busy travel periods.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is limited and operated on a first-come, first-serve basis. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected as part of the wheelchair or scooter, because federal regulations require they be disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a safe design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also request that you check in an hour prior to your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent information regarding your mobility or power chair. scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to offer the most secure and comfortable method of travel. These chairs are designed to fold up and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling, and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in planning your trip and give you the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines ask that you remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed and that it is stowed upright.
Depending on the airline you fly with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, your address, your telephone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event that it is lost or mishandled on your trip. You might also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will allow you to remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airline and airport personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. If you can you can arrive earlier than two hours before the time you plan to depart. This is especially crucial during busy holiday times 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.
Take a photo of your wheelchair prior to travel. This serves as proof if your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you the possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for any damages. It is also advisable to bring an extra cushion for your seat to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Seat cushions are especially important for flights lasting over an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be a get more info daunting task. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is possible with the proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Talk to an airline representative before booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They will be able to guide you in the best direction, regardless of whether you prefer to check-in your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour prior to your flight is recommended. This allows the airline plenty of time to inspect your equipment and ensure it will be stowed safely for your journey.
Depending on your power chair It could be necessary for you to disassemble the chair prior to 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 and maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. You should also take off any removable items and electric wheel chairs make sure that all controls are functioning before leaving for the airport.
Once you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the plane. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you an additional cost to store assistive devices, like power wheelchairs. This is a wonderful benefit for passengers with disabilities, because it can help them avoid costly expenses.
A representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that will fit on the aisle of the aircraft once the plane arrives. Then, you can disembark, and your wheelchair is returned to you at the nearest possible location to the aircraft door, either at the jetbridge or at the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with right planning and following the rules, you can enjoy exploring new locations. It is here essential to keep in mind that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair, you won't be able to travel with the freedom it affords.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. If you're traveling with an electric or wheelchair could make your trip more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow the airline's policies regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact the airline before your trip to inquire about their policies and to get any questions answered.
Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair for your flight, as that you prepare it for travel. Some airlines require that you charge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a doctor's letter prior to allowing you to travel with your powered wheelchair. Some airlines may also require you to disassemble the battery-powered portion of your chair and then read more place website it in a case that is protected.
When you arrive at the airport, be sure to 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. It's recommended to bring any documentation, such as your owner's manual or assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid to the airport. This will make it easier for the process of checking in and will help avoid confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.
Upon arriving at the ticket counter or gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Explain your wheelchair and any accessories you may need for example, seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be keeping your wheelchair in a separate cart or examining it for stowage. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book an express flight to reduce the number times your equipment is moved between places.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo area along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment arrives damaged, you must take a photograph prior to leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.