Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several things to consider when traveling with powered chairs. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you a lot of questions regarding your chair's dimensions, battery type and how it should be handled.
Be sure to have all of this information at hand before you leave for the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines can be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for travel on planes and they can be stowed under the plane as checked baggage. In addition they'll be able to navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips brick or roads that are muddy. They may also be equipped with a unique drive system that permits them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate for boarding. It is crucial to call the airline ahead of time to ensure they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they are able to meet them. Some airlines require that you arrive one hour prior to the departure time you have scheduled, which is important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. This space is limited and operated on the basis of first-come-first-serve. The federal regulations also demand that all extra batteries be checked with the wheelchair or scooter. They must be shut off unless they are designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before you bring electric wheelchairs or scooters on their flights. They also ask to check-in one hour prior to your flight time 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, as well as other pertinent details about your mobility or power chair. scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to offer a safe and convenient method of travel. These power chairs are made to fold, and they meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These experts can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines will require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals aren't exposed, and that it is stored upright.
Based on your airline depending on your airline, you might be required to label your wheelchair with the following details: your name address, address, phone number and model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment if it gets lost or damaged during your travels. You may also want to think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that allow you to remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at at least two hours prior to the departure time you have scheduled to ensure the proper storage of your equipment is done. If you are able be there earlier than two hours prior to your scheduled departure time. This is particularly crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This allows you to check in early and gives the representative of the airline plenty of time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you travel and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you the leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for any damages. You should also think about bringing a seat cushion with you to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as it can be for you. Cushions for seats are essential for flights that last more than an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline may be a daunting task. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is possible with the right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Before booking your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They will be able to help you navigate in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to make your seat at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it is recommended to arrive at least an hour before your flight. This gives the airline ample time to inspect your equipment and make sure that it will be stowed safely for your journey.
Based on the power chair you have, it may be necessary for you to disassemble it before it is transported. In this case it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the table to aid airline personnel who will handle your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair, such as the owner's manual as well as warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any detachable accessories before you go to the airport and to ensure all controls are in working order.
When you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. Airlines are not permitted to charge you extra to store assistive devices, like electric chairs. This is a great 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 able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to slide in the aisle of the aircraft. You can then disembark and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the closest 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 the right planning and following guidelines you can have fun exploring new destinations. It is important to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to travel with the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for people who have mobility issues. If you're traveling with mobility scooters or wheelchairs, it can make your trip more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's guidelines for 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 prior to your travels to inquire about their policy and ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to take an electric wheelchair on your trip as provided it's prepared for travel. Some airlines require you to discharge 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 component of your wheelchair and place it in a case that is protected.
Once you're at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. Bring any documentation you may need to the airport, such as your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will speed up check-in process and help avoid confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you reach the airline ticket counter or at the gate, carer controlled electric wheelchair be sure to be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Be sure to describe the kind of wheelchair you own and any necessary accessories like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be keeping your wheelchair in a special cart or examining it for storage. If you're taking a transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, you should try to book a direct flight, which will reduce the number of times your equipment will be transferred between locations.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane it will be stored in the cargo compartment, just like checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra fees for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. Take a photo of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.