Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several aspects to take into consideration when traveling with an electric chair. Airport and airline staff will ask you numerous questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have this information prepared before you travel to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and stowed securely on airplanes. They typically come with a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stowed underneath the plane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to navigate on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes roads that are muddy or brick. They could also have a patent-pending power drive system that permits them to move in tight spaces or lifts.
Airlines will assist you with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter to the gate to board. It is however important to contact them prior to time to make sure they are aware of your requirements and confirm that they can meet those requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour before your scheduled departure, which is especially important during busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes for the stowage of a mobility scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited and on a first-come, first-serve basis. The federal regulations also require that all batteries added to the system be checked by the wheelchair or scooter. They must be shut off unless they are specifically designed to prevent 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 to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other information about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to offer an efficient and safe way to travel. These power chairs can be folded and are in line with airline standards for battery size and handling, as well as stowage. If you're planning to travel with your airline of choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist in planning your itinerary and give you the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety. You can then put it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that the battery is safely stowed in an upright position.
Based on your airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following information including your name address, address, phone number and model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it gets lost or damaged during your travels. You may want to buy aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will help you remain in your seat during transfers with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport 2 hours prior to your departure to ensure proper equipment storage. Being earlier than that is even better if possible especially during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This lets you check in early and provides plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you with stowing your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair before you travel. This serves as proof if your device is damaged check hereget more info on the flight. This will give you leverage in pursuing compensation for damages from the airline. You should consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to make the trip as comfortable as you can. A seat cushion is essential when you travel click here for more than an hour, since this will minimize the pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline can be a daunting task. But, with the right preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, air travel using your electric chair is feasible.
Speak to an airline representative prior to making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They will be able to help you navigate in the right direction, regardless of whether you prefer to get your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour before your flight is suggested. This gives the airline ample time to examine your equipment and make sure that it is safely stored for your journey.
Depending on the kind of power chair you have, it may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. In this instance it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to assist the airline personnel who will handle your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair, including the owner's manual as well as warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable items prior to you travel to the airport and also to ensure that all of the controls are working properly.
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 for stowing assistive devices like power chairs. This is an excellent benefit for those with disabilities because it can help them avoid costly expenses.
When the plane lands, an airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that is able to slide into the aisle of the aircraft. You will then be able to get off the plane and your wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as you can, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines you will be able to website enjoy exploring new places. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you're not comfortable moving around in your chair, you will not be able to fully take advantage of the freedom that travel offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be very stressful for people with mobility issues. If you're using a wheelchair or a scooter could make your trip 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 ahead of time to inquire about their policy on power chairs, and to ask any questions.
Most airlines allow you to bring an electric chair on your flight, as that you prepare it more info correctly to travel. Some airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a physician's letter before they will allow you to travel with your electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered part of your wheelchair and place it inside a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours prior to the time of departure so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, including your owner manual and any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
On arrival at the ticket counter or gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Explain the type of wheelchair you have and any other accessories you may require like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be placing your wheelchair in a specific cart or checking it for stowage. If you're taking a transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, try to take a direct flight which will reduce the number of times your equipment will be transferred between locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment as checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment is damaged, you must capture a photo prior to leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.