Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are many aspects to be considered. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you many questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.
Be sure to have all of these details in hand prior to you leave for the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that comply with the regulations for air travel.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are able to be safely transported and stowed on planes. They typically come with a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. Additionally they'll be able to navigate on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or roads that are muddy. They can also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending that allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate to board. However, it is important to contact them prior to time to ensure that they are aware of your needs and confirm that they can meet those needs. Certain airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to the time of departure, which is especially important in busy 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 an initial-come first-serve basis. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected in conjunction with the scooter or wheelchair as federal regulations require that they be disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a safe design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask to check-in at least an hour prior to your flight time so that they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get assembly/disassembly information and other helpful details about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are made for secure and comfortable travel. These power chairs are made to fold and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling, and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in preparing your itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also give you assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines require you to remove your wheelchair's battery to ensure safety and put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals aren't exposed, and that it is stowed upright.
Depending on your airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following information including your name address, number, and model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment in case it gets lost or mishandled during your trip. You may want to buy aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to assist you in staying in your chair during transfers with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure the proper stowage of your equipment is completed. Arriving earlier than this is even better if possible particularly during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This lets you check in early and provides ample time for the airline representative to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair before you travel. This can be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you the possibility of pursuing compensation from the here airline for any damages. Consider bringing along a seat cushion to make your flight as comfortable as possible. Seat cushions are especially important when you travel for more than an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, the process of boarding a plane can be an intimidating experience. But, with the right preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, flying using your electric chair is feasible.
Speak to an airline representative before making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best way to check in your chair regardless of whether it's at the counter for tickets or the gate. In either case, read more it is recommended to arrive at least one hour before your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to examine your equipment and ensure it will be safely towed to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the kind of power chair you own It could be necessary to disassemble it for transport. If this is the case, it's helpful to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions in order to aid the airline employees handling your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair, such as the owner's manual and warranty information. You should also remove any accessories that are removable and check whether all controls function before you leave for the airport.
Once you are at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra fees for the stowing of assistive devices such as power chairs. This is an excellent benefit for passengers with disabilities, because get more info it can help them avoid unnecessary expenses.
When the plane lands at the airport, an airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to slide into the aisle of the aircraft. You will then be able to board the plane, and your wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as possible, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
Traveling with an electric wheelchair can seem daunting, but with the right planning and adhering to the guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the thrill of exploring new destinations easily. It is important to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair, you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for people with mobility issues. If you're traveling with an electric or wheelchair, it can make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it is crucial to adhere to the airline's guidelines for taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline ahead of time to learn about their policies on power chairs, and to ask any questions.
Most airlines will get more info let you bring an electric chair on your flight, so that you prepare it for travel. Certain airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will require a physician's letter prior to allowing you to fly with a electric wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require that you remove the battery-powered portion of your chair and place it in a case that is safe.
Once you're at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documentation you may require to the airport, including your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in and prevent confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
On arrival at the airline's ticket counter or gate, make sure to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Explain your wheelchair and any other accessories you may need for example, seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or if it will be transferred to the plane using an adapted cart. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book an direct flight to cut down on the number of times your device is moved between places.
When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment, just like checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you additional fees for the storage of your wheelchair or scooter, just as they would with your luggage. Take a picture of website your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.