Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few things to consider when traveling with an electric chair. The staff at the airport and the airline will inquire about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to use it.
Be sure to have all this information in your possession prior to you travel to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and stowed securely on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for use on flights, and they can be kept under the plane as checked baggage. Additionally, they will be able to move on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or roads that are muddy. They could also be fitted with a drive system that is patent-pending which allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the boarding gates. However, it is important to contact them ahead of time to ensure they are aware of your needs and confirm that they can meet your needs. Some airlines require you to be at least one hour prior to the departure time you have scheduled This is crucial during busy travel periods.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes for the stowage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is limited, and it's first come first served. The federal regulations also require that any additional batteries be inspected by a wheelchair or scooter. They must be shut off unless they are specifically designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour prior to your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain assembly/disassembly information and other helpful information regarding your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure 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 the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist in planning your trip and give you the most current information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety. You can then put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery terminals aren't exposed, and it is stowed upright.
Depending on your airline depending on your airline, you might be required to label your wheelchair with the following information including your name address, number and model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment if it gets lost or damaged during your travels. You may also think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will help you remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airline and airport 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, arrive earlier than two hours prior to the time you plan to read more depart. This is particularly important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This lets you check-in early and gives the airline representative plenty of time to help you stow your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair prior to traveling. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage in obtaining compensation for any damages from the airline. You should consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to make the trip as comfortable as you possibly can. Using a seat cushion is particularly important for flights that last more than an hour, since it reduces pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft 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 using your electric chair is possible.
Before booking your flight, talk to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They'll be able to help you navigate in the right direction, regardless of whether you prefer to get your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour prior to your flight is suggested. This allows the airline plenty of time to examine your equipment and ensure that it will be safely towed for your trip.
Depending on your power chair It may be necessary for you to disassemble it before it is transported. In this instance, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the table to aid airline employees who handle your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. Also, remove any accessories that are removable and check that all controls work before you depart for the airport.
Once you are at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. The airlines are prohibited from check here charging you an additional fee to stow assistive devices, such as electric wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for passengers with disabilities, since it allows them to save money.
Once the plane is in the air in the air, a representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit in the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you can disembark, and your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the nearest possible location to the aircraft door, either at the jetbridge or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric wheelchair can seem intimidating, but with proper planning and adhering to the guidelines, it is possible to experience the joy of exploring new places without difficulty. The most important thing to remember is that if you're uncomfortable in your chair, you will never take advantage of the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for people with mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, but it's important to adhere to your airline's policies for the transportation and storage of your chair on board the airplane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact the airline prior to your departure to inquire about their policy and ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, as long as you prepare it for travel. Certain airlines might require you to charge 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. get more info Some airlines will also require you to take apart the battery-powered portion of your chair and then place it inside a protective case.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before departure. Bring any documentation you may require to the airport, such as your manual or any directions for here assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in process and avoid confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the counter for tickets to airline or at the gate, be sure to communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Explain your click here wheelchair and any other accessories you may require, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage or if it will be transferred to the plane using an appropriate cart. If you're going to transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, try to book a direct flight, which will minimize the amount of times your equipment will be moved between locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment, just like checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you extra to store your scooter or wheelchair, just as they would with your luggage. Take a photograph of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.