Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several things you should consider when traveling with powered chairs. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you a lot of questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have all of this information in your possession prior to you leave for the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that comply with air travel regulations.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be carried and stowed securely on airplanes. They typically come with an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. They will also be able navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration stripes, roads that are muddy or brick. They could also have a patented power drive system that permits them to maneuver in tight spaces or lifts.
Airlines will assist you with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter until the boarding gate. However, it is essential to contact them ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of your needs and confirm that they can meet those requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour before the departure time you have scheduled, which is important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. This space is limited and operated on a first-come, first-serve basis. They also require that any additional batteries be checked as part of the wheelchair or scooter, as federal regulations require that they are disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a secure design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when you bring electric wheelchairs or scooters on their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour prior to your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other information regarding your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed for comfortable and safe travel. These chairs are designed to fold up and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling, and storage. If you plan to travel with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist you in preparing your itinerary and give you the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines ask that you take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that the battery is securely tucked away in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you fly with depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, address, your telephone number, and the wheelchair model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment in case it gets lost or damaged during your trip. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will assist you in staying in your chair while you travel with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
You should arrive at at two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that proper stowage of your equipment is completed. Arriving earlier than this is even better if possible, especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and gives the airline representative plenty of time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you travel to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during your flight. This will give you possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for damages. You should consider bringing an extra click here cushion for your seat to make the flight as comfortable as you possibly can. Seat cushions are especially important for flights that last more than an hour. They will reduce pressure on your skin, electric wheelchair 25 stone preventing soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline can be intimidating. Traveling on a plane with a powered transportable electric wheelchair chair is achievable with proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Contact an airline representative prior to making your booking to find out more about the policies and click here procedures. They can guide you on the best method to check into your seat, whether it is at the ticket counter or the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour prior to your flight is suggested. This gives the airline ample time to examine your equipment and ensure it is safely stored for your journey.
Depending on the type of power chair you own, it may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it is helpful to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly in order to aid the airline employees handling your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair, like the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also recommended to remove any removable accessories and ensure that all controls are functioning before you depart for the airport.
Once you arrive at the airport the electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge you extra to store assistive devices, such as electric chairs. This is an excellent benefit for people who have disabilities, as it allows them to save money.
After the plane has landed at the airport, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to slide in the aisle of the aircraft. After disembarking, your wheelchair will be returned to you at the shortest possible location to the aircraft door or at the jetbridge or the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with the proper planning and travel electric wheelchair following the guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new places. It is essential to keep in mind that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to travel with the freedom it offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for people who suffer from mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the experience less stressful for you, but it's important to adhere to the policies of your airline regarding the transportation and storage of your chair on board the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your departure to inquire about their policies and to get any questions answered.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, as long as you prepare it correctly to travel. Some airlines might require you to recharge the batteries before boarding, and some may require you to have a doctor's recommendation in order to let you fly with your power chair. Some airlines may also demand that you take down the battery powered portion of your chair and place it into a protective case.
Get to the airport at least two hours before your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, such as the owner's manual as well as any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid, to the airport. This will speed up check-in and prevent confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you reach the airline ticket counter or at the gate, be sure to explain your mobility needs clearly. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any other accessories you may need, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage or the possibility of transferring it to the aircraft with a specialized cart. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book a direct flight to minimize the amount of times your equipment is moved between different locations.
Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it will be 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. If your equipment is damaged, be sure to capture a photo before leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.