Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several things you should consider when traveling with powered chairs. The staff at the airport and the airline will inquire about the dimensions of your chair, battery type, and how to handle it.
Make sure you have all of this information in your possession prior to you leave for the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that comply with the requirements for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be carried and stowed securely on airplanes. The FAA will allow them to be used for air travel, and they can be stowed under the plane as checked baggage. They will also be able move on rough surfaces, such as deceleration stripes, gravel, roads that are muddy or brick. They can also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending that permits them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the boarding gates. It is however important to contact them ahead of time to make sure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet those needs. Some airlines require you to arrive an hour before the departure time you have scheduled, which is important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of a mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited and operates on an initial-come first-serve basis. Federal regulations also require that all batteries added to the system be checked with the scooter or wheelchair. They must be removed unless they are specifically designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask that you check in one hour before your flight to ensure 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 regarding your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to provide the most secure and comfortable way to travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold and meet airline guidelines 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 give you the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines will require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals aren't exposed, and that it is safely stowed upright.
Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, address, your telephone number, and the wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it gets lost or is mishandled on your trip. You might also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will help you remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airline and airport personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at two hours before the time of departure to ensure that proper stowage of your equipment is done. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This lets you arrive early and allows plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you with read more stowing your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair prior to traveling. This will serve as proof if your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you the possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for damages. You should also think about bringing an extra cushion for your seat to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as it can be for you. The use click here of a cushion for your seat is especially important when you travel for more than an hour, since it will reduce pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline can be daunting. But, with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, traveling with a power chair is attainable.
Before booking your flight, talk to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best method to check in your chair regardless of whether it's cheapest electric wheelchairs at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, it is recommended to arrive at least an hour before your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure that it's safely stowed for your trip.
Based on the model of power chair you have, it may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it is beneficial to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to help the airline employees handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any detachable items prior to you go to the airport, and to make sure all of the controls are functioning properly.
Once you are at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the plane. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra fees for stowing assistive devices such as power chairs. This is an excellent benefit for passengers with disabilities, since it allows them to avoid unnecessary expenses.
An airline employee will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit down the aisle of the aircraft once the plane arrives. Then, you will be able to disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as you can or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
A trip with an electric wheelchair may seem intimidating, but with proper planning and adhering to the guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new destinations without difficulty. It is essential to keep in mind that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair, you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be extremely stressful for people who suffer from mobility issues. If you're using an electric or wheelchair can make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it's crucial to adhere to the airline's policies regarding taking your chair with you and storing it on the more info plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your travels to inquire about their policies and to get any questions answered.
Most airlines allow you to bring an electric chair on your flight, so long as you prepare it correctly for travel. Certain airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to taking website off and others will need a doctor's letter prior to allowing you to travel with your electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also demand that you take down the battery-powered part of your chair, and place it in an enclosure that is protected.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, including your owner's manual or instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid to the airport. This will help speed up the process of checking in and will prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
Upon arriving at the airline's ticket counter or at the gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Provide a description of your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you may need like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be keeping your wheelchair in a special cart or examining it for stowage. If you're going to transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to book a direct flight, which will minimize the number of times your equipment will be moved between different locations.
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 the airlines from charging extra for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. Take a photograph of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.