Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few aspects to take into consideration when traveling with an electric chair. The airport staff and the airline will inquire about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to handle it.
Make sure you have these details ready before you go to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs 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. In addition, they will be able to navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or roads that are muddy. They could also have a patent-pending power drive system that allows them to navigate in tight spaces, or elevators.
Airlines will assist you with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate for boarding. It is however important to contact them ahead of time to make sure they are aware of your requirements and confirm that they can meet those requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to your scheduled departure, which is especially important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is limited and operated on the basis of first-come-first-serve. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected in conjunction with the scooter or wheelchair, because federal regulations require they must be removed from the device unless the chair is equipped with a secure design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to bringing an electric wheelchair or scooter aboard their flights. They also require to check-in one hour prior to your flight so that they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful information about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are made for safe and convenient travel. These power chairs can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline guidelines for battery size and handling, as well as stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These experts can help you plan your itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair for safety purposes and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that the battery is securely tucked away in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, your address, your number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment if it gets lost or mishandled during your trip. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will assist you in staying in your chair while you travel with airport personnel as well as 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 can you can arrive at least two hours earlier than your departure time. This is especially important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This allows you to check in earlier and gives ample time for the airline representative to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Before you leave and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will help you in obtaining compensation for damages from the airline. Consider bringing along cushions to make the trip as comfortable as you can. A seat cushion is particularly important when you travel for longer than an hour, because this will minimize pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, getting on a plane could amazon power chairs be a daunting prospect. Traveling with a power chair check here is achievable with proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Talk to an airline representative prior to making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best way to check into your seat regardless of whether it's at the ticket counter or the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour before your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure that it's safely and properly stored for your trip.
Based on the model of power chair you own It may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it's helpful to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly in order to aid the airline employees handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. Also, take off any removable items and make sure whether all controls function before you leave for the airport.
Once you arrive at an airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra for stowing assistive devices such as electric chairs. This is a huge benefit for passengers with disabilities as it allows them to avoid costly expenses.
Once the plane is in the air in the air, a representative from the airline will be in a position to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to fit in the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you will be able to get off the plane and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric chair can be daunting, but with careful planning and adherence to guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new locations with ease. The most important thing to remember is that if you're not comfortable moving around in your chair, you'll never enjoy the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for those with mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, however it is important to follow the guidelines of your airline for transporting and stowing your chair on the plane. Contact the airline in advance to find out their policy regarding mobility wheelchair electric power chairs and to ask any questions.
Most airlines will allow you to take an electric wheelchair on your flight as long as it's properly prepared for travel. Certain airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to taking off and others will need a doctor's letter prior to allowing you to fly with a power wheelchair. Some airlines may also require you to remove the battery-powered portion of your chair and put it in a case that is protected.
When you arrive at the airport, make sure you arrive at least two hours prior to your departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. Bring any documentation you might need to the airport, including your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will speed up check-in process and avoid confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the airline ticket counter or at the gate, be sure to communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Explain your wheelchair and any other accessories you might require for example, sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or whether it will be transported to the aircraft using a specialized cart. If you're taking a transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, you should try to make a direct flight which will reduce the amount of times your equipment is moved between locations.
Once your wheelchair is in the more info plane it will be stored in website the cargo compartment, just like checked baggage. 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 in the event that it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.