Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to take into consideration. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you a lot of questions about your chair's dimensions, battery type and how it should be handled.
Be sure to have all these details in hand prior to you travel to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that comply with air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stowed on planes. The FAA will approve them for use on flights, and they can be stored in the airplane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to navigate on rough surfaces such as deceleration stripes, gravel, roads that are muddy or brick. They could also be equipped with a patent-pending power drive system that allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or lifts.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the gates for boarding. However, it is important to contact them ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of your requirements and to confirm that they are able to meet those needs. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour before the time of departure This is particularly important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is limited, and it's first come, first served. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair because federal regulations require they be disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with an effective design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour before 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 give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions and other helpful details about your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed for comfortable and safe travel. These chairs are designed to fold, and they comply with airline guidelines for 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. These experts can assist you in planning your travel plans and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair for safety purposes and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals aren't exposed, and it is placed upright.
Based on your airline or airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following information: your name address, number, and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it is lost or damaged during your travels. You may also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which aid you in staying in your wheelchair while you travel with airline and airport personnel.
You should arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that the proper stowage of your equipment is accomplished. Arriving earlier than this is even better, especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and gives the representative of the airline plenty of bariatric electric wheelchair time to help you stow your chair.
Before you leave, take a picture of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged on the flight. This will help you to seek compensation for the damages from the airline. It is also advisable to bring a seat cushion with you to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Seat cushions are especially important for flights that last more than an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
If you are click here traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane is a daunting prospect. Traveling with a power chair is achievable with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, talk to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and attendant controlled electric power wheelchair procedures. They can help you navigate in the right direction, whether you prefer to get your seat at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour before your flight is recommended. This allows the airline plenty of time to examine your equipment and ensure that it will be safely towed for your journey.
Depending on the kind of power chair you have It may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. In this instance, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the go to help airline personnel who will handle your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair, such as the owner's click here manual or warranty information. Also, take off any removable items and make sure that all controls work before you depart for the airport.
Once you arrive at the airport, your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and then stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge you extra for stowing assistive devices such as power chairs. This is a huge benefit for passengers with disabilities since it helps them save money.
A representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which will fit on the aisle of the aircraft when the plane lands. Then, you can disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the shortest possible location to the door of the aircraft or at the jetbridge or at the gate.
Traveling with an electric wheelchair may seem intimidating, but with proper planning and adhering to the guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new locations with ease. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you're not comfortable in your chair, you'll never enjoy the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. If you're using mobility scooters or wheelchairs could make your experience more enjoyable. However, it's essential to follow the airline's policies regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to find out their policy on power chairs, and to ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, as that you prepare it correctly to travel. Some airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a physician's letter before they will allow you to fly with a electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also demand that you remove the battery-powered part of your chair, and place it in a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours before the time of departure to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documents you require to the airport, like your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in process and avoid confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the counter for tickets to airline or gate, be sure you explain your mobility needs clearly. Be sure to describe the kind of wheelchair you're using and any necessary accessories, such as cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage or whether it will be transported to the aircraft using an adapted cart. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book an direct flight to here cut down on the number times your equipment is moved between different locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo area along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you additional fees for the storage of your scooter or wheelchair just as they would with your luggage. Take a picture of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.