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 at the airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information in your possession prior to you head to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with the regulations 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 an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be tucked under the plane as checked luggage. Additionally they'll be able to navigate on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or roads that are muddy. They could also have a patent-pending power drive system that enables them to maneuver in tight spaces or lifts.
Airlines will provide assistance with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the gate for boarding. However, it is important to contact them ahead of time to ensure they are aware of your requirements and confirm that they can meet those needs. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of the time of departure which is crucial during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of a mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited and operated on a first-come, first-serve basis. Federal regulations also require that all batteries added to the system be inspected by a wheelchair or scooter. They must be shut off unless they are designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also require to check-in at least an hour before your flight so that they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent 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. These chairs are designed to fold and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can assist you in planning your trip and give you the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines ask that you take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals aren't exposed, and that it is safely stowed upright.
Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, your address, your number, and the wheelchair model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it is lost or damaged during your trip. You may want to buy aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will allow you to remain in your seat during transfers with airport personnel and airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport 2 hours prior to your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment storage. If you can you can arrive at least two hours earlier than your departure time. This is especially important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This allows you to check in earlier and gives plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Before you leave, take a picture of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for damages. You should small electric wheel chair also think about bringing a seat cushion with you, so that the flight is as relaxing as possible for you. Cushions for seats are essential for flights that last more than an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline may be intimidating. Traveling with a power chair is feasible with right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Before booking your flight, speak to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to get your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it's advised to arrive at least one hour prior to your flight. This gives the airline ample time to examine your equipment and ensure that it is safely stored for your trip.
Depending on the model of your power chair It may be necessary to disassemble the chair prior to transport. If this is the case, it is important to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions on hand to help the staff of the airline handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. Also, remove any removable accessories and make sure that all controls are functioning before you leave for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the airplane. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra fees for stowing assistive devices like power chairs. This is an excellent benefit for passengers with disabilities, since it allows them to avoid costly expenses.
A representative from the airline will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can be able to fit into the aircraft aisle when the plane lands. Then, you can disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the closest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or the gate.
The idea of using an electric chair can be daunting, but with the right planning and adherence to guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the thrill of exploring new destinations with ease. 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 offers.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for passengers with mobility problems. If you have mobility scooters or wheelchairs could make your trip more enjoyable. However, it's essential to follow the airline's guidelines regarding bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline ahead of time to learn about their policies on power chairs, and to inquire about any questions.
Most airlines allow you to bring an electric chair on your flight, so that you prepare it correctly for travel. Certain airlines may require you to discharge the batteries before boarding, and some will require you to have a medical note in order to allow you to fly with your power chair. Certain airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery-powered part of your chair and place it in an enclosure that is protected.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours before your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before departure. It's important to bring any documentation, such as your owner manual and any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid, to the airport. This will speed up the process of checking in and will make sure that there is no confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.
When you reach the counter for tickets to airline or at the gate, be sure to communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Provide the kind of wheelchair you own and any necessary accessories, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or if it will be transferred to the plane using an appropriate cart. If you're transferring to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to book a direct flight, which will reduce the amount of times your equipment will be moved between locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you extra for storing your wheelchair or scooter, just as they would with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, you must take a picture of it prior to leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.