Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are several things to take into consideration. Airport and airline staff will ask you a lot of questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have this information ready prior to your trip to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be carried and safely stowed on airplanes. The FAA can approve them for use on flights, and they can be kept under the plane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to maneuver on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes, roads that are muddy or brick. They could also be equipped with a patented power drive system that enables them to maneuver in tight spaces or lifts.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the boarding gates. It is essential to contact the airline in advance to ensure they are aware of any special needs and to confirm that they can meet them. Some airlines require you to arrive an hour before your departure time which is essential in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. This space is limited and is first come first served. The federal regulations also demand that any additional batteries be checked by the wheelchair or scooter. They must be disconnected unless they are designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when taking an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour before your flight, so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent information about your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to provide the most secure and comfortable method of travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and stowage. If you are planning to travel with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These experts can help you plan your travel itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date details regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines will require you to remove your wheelchair's battery to ensure safety and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is securely tucked away in a upright position.
Depending on your airline or airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following details including your name, address, phone number and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it is lost or mishandled on your trip. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to assist you in staying in your seat during transfers with airport personnel and airline personnel.
You should always arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure proper stowage of your equipment is completed. Being earlier than that is even better especially during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and allows the representative read more of the airline plenty of time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you leave, take a picture of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during your flight. This will help you in obtaining compensation for any damages from the airline. Consider bringing along an extra cushion for your seat to make your flight as comfortable as possible. Cushions for seats are essential when you travel for more than an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane could be a daunting prospect. Traveling with a power chair is feasible with right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Contact an airline representative before booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best method to check into your seat, whether it is at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it's recommended that you arrive at least one hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to check your equipment and ensure it will be safely towed to be ready for your trip.
Depending on your power chair It may be necessary for you to disassemble it prior to it is transported. In this case it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly hand to assist the 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 remove any removable accessories and make sure whether all controls function before you leave for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport, your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and then stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra to store assistive check here devices, like electric chairs. This is an excellent benefit for those with disabilities as it helps them avoid unnecessary expenses.
A representative from the airline can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can be able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft when the plane lands. You can then disembark and your wheelchair is returned to you at the shortest possible location to the door of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric chair can be daunting, but with click here careful planning and adhering to guidelines, it is possible to experience the joy of exploring new destinations with ease. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you're uncomfortable in your chair, you will never be able to enjoy the freedom that traveling provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for those who suffer from mobility problems. If you're using an electric or wheelchair, it can make your trip more enjoyable. However, it is crucial to adhere to the airline's policies regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to inquire about their policy on power chairs, and to inquire about any questions.
Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized chair for your flight, as long as you prepare it to travel. Some airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a physician's letter to amazon power chairs allow you to fly with a powered wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery powered portion of your chair, and then place it in an enclosure that is protected.
Once you're at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours prior to the best electric wheelchairs time of departure so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. It's important to bring any documentation, such as your owner's manual or instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
On arrival at the airline's ticket counter or gate, make certain to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Explain the kind of wheelchair you're using and any necessary accessories like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether they will be storing your wheelchair in a specific cart or checking it for stowage. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book an express flight to reduce the number times your equipment is moved between places.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane it will be stored in the cargo compartment, just like checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of your wheelchair or scooter, just as they would with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, make sure you take a picture of it prior to leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.