Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many things you should consider when traveling with powered chairs. The staff at the airport and at the airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions and battery type, as well as how to use it.
Make sure you have all this information in your possession prior to you leave for the airport. Make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that comply with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and stowed safely on airplanes. The FAA can approve them for use on flights, and they can be kept under the plane as checked baggage. Additionally they'll be able to move on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips brick or muddy roads. They may also be equipped with a unique drive system that allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the gate for boarding. It is essential to contact the airline in advance to ensure that they are aware of any special needs and confirm that they will be able to accommodate these requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour before your scheduled departure, which is especially important during peak 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 serve. The 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 designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also request that you check-in an hour prior to your flight time so that they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent details about your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are made for safe and convenient travel. These power chairs are made to fold up and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and storage. If you're planning to travel with the airline of your preference, you should contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can assist you in planning your trip and give you the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines will require you to remove your wheelchair's battery to ensure safety and put it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is securely tucked away in a straight position.
Depending on your airline depending on your airline, you might be asked to label your wheelchair with the following details including your name address, address, phone number and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event that it gets lost or is mishandled during your journey. You might also think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that help you remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airport and airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. If you are able, arrive earlier than two hours before the time you plan to depart. This is particularly important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This allows you to arrive early and allows ample time for the representative of the airline to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Before you travel, take a picture of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for any damages. You should consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to make the trip as comfortable as possible. A seat cushion is especially important when you travel for more than an hour, since this will minimize the pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those who travel here with an airline approved electric wheelchair, boarding a plane can be an overwhelming experience. Air travel with a power chair is feasible with proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Speak to an airline representative before booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They will be able to guide you in the right direction, whether you prefer to get your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour before your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, check here and ensure that it's safely stowed to be ready for your trip.
Based on the power chair you have, it may be necessary to disassemble it before transportation. In this instance, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the go to help airline personnel handling your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair, including the owner's manual as well as warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any removable items and make sure whether all controls function before you leave for the airport.
Once you are at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the airplane. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra to store assistive devices, such as power chairs. This is a great benefit for passengers with disabilities since they can avoid costly expenses.
A representative from the airline can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which can be able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft once the plane lands. After disembarking, your powered wheelchair is returned to you at heavy duty electric wheelchairs the nearest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft or at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
A trip with an electric wheelchair can seem intimidating, but with proper planning and adhering to the guidelines, you can be able to experience the joy of exploring new locations without difficulty. The most important thing to remember is that if you're uncomfortable in your chair, you will not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that travel affords.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for people who have mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the experience less stressful for you, however it is important to follow website the policies of your airline regarding the transportation and storage of your chair on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to find out their policy regarding power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Most airlines will let you bring an electric chair on your flight, as provided you prepare it for travel. Certain airlines may require you to discharge the batteries before boarding, and some will require you to have a medical note on file prior to being able to let you fly with your motorized chair. Some airlines will also require you to disassemble the battery-powered component of your wheelchair and place it in a protective case.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before departure. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, like your owner manual and any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This click here will speed up the check-in process and avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the airline's ticket counter or gate, make certain to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Be sure to describe the type of wheelchair you have and any necessary accessories like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or whether it will be transported to the aircraft using an adapted cart. If you're transferring to the plane with your electric wheelchair, you should try to book a direct flight, which will reduce the amount of times your equipment will be transferred between different locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment as checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment is damaged, make sure you capture a photo prior to leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.