Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are many things to take into consideration. Airport and airline staff will ask you numerous questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.
Be sure to have this information at hand before you travel to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that meet the requirements for air travel.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and stowed safely on planes. The FAA can approve them for use on flights and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. Additionally, they will be able to navigate on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips brick or muddy roads. They could also be equipped with a patent-pending power drive system that permits them to navigate in tight spaces, or lifts.
Airlines will provide assistance with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter until the gate to board. It is crucial to call the airline ahead of time to ensure they are aware of any special needs and confirm that they will be able to accommodate them. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour before your scheduled departure, which is especially important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. This space is limited and on an initial-come first-serve basis. They also require that any extra batteries be checked as part of the scooter or wheelchair, as federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless the chair is equipped with a secure design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask that you check in an hour prior to your flight so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions and other helpful details about your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to provide an efficient and safe method of travel. These electric chairs can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and stowage. If you're planning to travel with the airline of your choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist in preparing your itinerary and give you the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety. You can then put it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that the battery is safely stowed in a upright position.
Depending on the airline you fly with depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, your address, your phone number, and your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event that it is lost or damaged during your travels. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will assist you in staying in your chair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This allows you to arrive early and allows plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you travel, take a picture of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your device is more info damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage in obtaining lightweight wheelchairs electric compensation for any damages from the airline. It is also advisable to bring cushions for your seats, so that the flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Using a seat cushion is essential when you travel for over an hour, as this will minimize the pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that is accepted by the airline can be intimidating. However, with proper preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, traveling with your power chair is possible.
Contact an airline representative before making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to get your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it's recommended to arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure it is safely stowed for your trip.
Based on the power chair you have It could be necessary to disassemble it before transport. If this is the case, it is important to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly in order to aid the staff of the airline handling your chair. Attach any click here safety and maintenance wheelchair lightweight electric documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any accessories that can be removed prior to when you travel to the airport, and to make sure all controls are in working order.
Once you arrive at an airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and then stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra to store assistive devices, such as electric chairs. This is a great feature for people with disabilities, since it allows them to avoid unnecessary expenses.
Once the plane is in the air, an airline employee will be able to transfer you from your power wheelchair to one that can fit down the aircraft aisle. You will then be able to board the plane, and your power wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as is possible in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric chair can be daunting, but with careful planning and adherence to heavy duty electric wheelchairs guidelines, you can be able to experience the joy of exploring new destinations with ease. It is crucial to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to travel with the freedom it offers.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the journey less stress-inducing for you, but it's important to adhere to your airline's policies for transporting and stowing your chair on the airplane. 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 will let you bring a motorized chair for your flight, so that you prepare it correctly to travel. Some airlines might require you to recharge the batteries before boarding, and some will require you to have a medical note on file before they will allow you to fly with your electric chair. Some airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered component of your chair and then place it in a protective case.
When you arrive at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, such as your owner's manual or instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up check-in and prevent confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
When you reach the airline ticket counter or gate, make sure to be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide the type of wheelchair you have and any accessories you require, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be storing your wheelchair in a specific cart or examining it for stowage. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book an direct flight to cut down on the number of times your device is moved between locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo compartment along with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. Take a photograph of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.