Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few things you should consider when traveling with powered chairs. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you many questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have all these details in hand prior to you leave for the airport. Make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with the air travel regulations.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and stowed safely on airplanes. The FAA can approve them for travel on planes, and they can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. They can also maneuver on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes, roads that are muddy or brick. They could also be fitted with a unique drive system which allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the gates for boarding. It is essential to call the airline ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate the requirements. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of the time of departure which is crucial in busy 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 not large enough and it's first come, first served. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair, as federal regulations require that they are disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a safe design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to taking an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour before your flight to ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. They also request to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and 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 an efficient and safe method of travel. They can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines for battery size handling, stowage, and handling. If you're planning to travel with the airline of your choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist you in planning your trip and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide you with assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety and then place it into a carryon bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed and it is stowed upright.
Depending on your airline depending on your airline, you might be asked to label your wheelchair with the following details such as your name address, number and model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment in case it gets lost or damaged during your travels. You might also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will allow you to remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airline and airport personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. If you are able be there at least two hours earlier than your scheduled departure time. This is especially crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This lets you check-in early and gives the airline representative plenty of time to help you stow your chair.
Before you leave and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during the flight. This will help you in obtaining compensation for damages from the airline. It is also advisable to bring cushions for your seats so that your journey is as comfortable as it can be for you. Cushions for seats are essential for flights lasting over an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin more info preventing soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, the process of boarding a plane can be an overwhelming experience. Traveling with a power chair is possible with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Contact an airline representative before making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They will be able to guide you in the right direction, whether you website prefer to check-in your seat at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour prior to your flight is suggested. This allows the airline plenty of time to inspect your equipment and make sure that it will be stowed safely for your journey.
Depending on the model of your power chair It could be necessary to disassemble it prior to transportation. If this is the case, it's beneficial to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to help the airline personnel handling your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair, like the owner's manual as well as warranty information. You should also remove any removable accessories and check that all controls are functioning before you depart for the airport.
When you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and then stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging you an additional cost to store assistive devices, such as power wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for those with disabilities as it allows them to avoid unnecessary costs.
After the plane has landed in the air, a representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit in the aisle of the aircraft. You will then be able to get off the plane and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as is possible, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
A trip with an electric wheelchair may seem daunting, but with careful planning and adherence to guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new destinations with ease. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you're not comfortable moving around in your chair, you'll never be able to take advantage of the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be extremely stressful for those who have check here mobility issues. If you're using a wheelchair or a scooter could make your 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. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your departure to ask about their policy and ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair for your flight, so long as you prepare it to travel. Some airlines might require you to recharge the batteries before boarding, and some will require you to have a doctor's recommendation on file before they will allow you to fly using your motorized chair. Some airlines may also require that you remove the battery powered portion 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 your departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documentation you might require to the airport, including your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will speed up check-in process and avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you reach the counter for tickets to airline or at the gate, be sure to explain your mobility needs clearly. Provide the kind of wheelchair you're using and any accessories you require, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or the possibility of transferring it to the plane using an adapted cart. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book a direct flight to minimize the number times your equipment is moved between different locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. Take a picture of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.