Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to take into consideration. The airport staff and airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions and battery type, as well as how to use it.
Make sure you have these details ready prior to your trip to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that meet the requirements for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stowed on planes. The FAA can approve them for travel on planes and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. Furthermore they'll be able to maneuver on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or muddy roads. They could also be fitted with a patented drive system which allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter until the gate to board. It is crucial to contact the airline in advance to make sure they are aware of any specific needs and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate these requirements. Some 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 cabins for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is limited and operates on a first-come, first-serve basis. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected in conjunction with the scooter or wheelchair, since federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless the chair is equipped with an effective design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also request that you check-in an hour prior to your flight time to ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other information about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to offer a safe and convenient method of travel. These chairs are designed to fold, and they comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and storage. If you're planning to travel with the airline of your choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives 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. Some airlines ask that you take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed and it is placed upright.
Based on your airline depending on your airline, you might be asked to label your wheelchair with the following information such as your name address, number and model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment if it should become lost or damaged during your trip. You might also think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will aid you in staying in your wheelchair while you travel with airline and airport personnel.
You should arrive at the airport 2 hours prior to your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. Being earlier than that is even better particularly during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This lets you check-in early and allows the airline representative ample time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair prior to traveling. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline in case of damages. You should consider bringing cushions to make your flight as comfortable as you possibly can. A seat cushion is essential for flights that will last more than an hour, since it will reduce pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is accepted by the airline can be a daunting task. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is feasible with right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Contact an airline representative prior to making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best method to check into your seat, whether it is at the counter for tickets or the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour before your flight is recommended. This allows the here airline plenty of time to check your equipment and make sure that it will be stowed safely to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the model of your power chair, it may be necessary to disassemble it prior to transport. In this situation, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the table to aid airline employees who handle your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair, like the owner's manual and warranty information. You should also remove any accessories that are removable and check that all controls are functioning before you leave for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and then stowed. The airlines aren't allowed to charging an additional fee to stow assistive devices, such as electric wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for people with disabilities as they can avoid unnecessary costs.
An airline employee can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that will fit on the aircraft aisle when the plane lands. Then, you will be able to board the plane, and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as you can in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
Traveling with an electric wheelchair may seem daunting, but with the right planning and adherence to guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the thrill of exploring new locations without difficulty. It is crucial to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair, you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for people who have mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stressful for you, but it's essential to follow the guidelines of your airline for bringing and stowing your chair on the airplane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact the airline prior to your departure to ask about their policy and get any questions answered.
Most airlines will let you bring an electric chair on your flight, as provided you prepare it read more properly for travel. Some airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will require a doctor's letter to allow you to fly with your power wheelchair. Some airlines may also demand that you remove the battery-powered portion of your chair and place it in a protective case.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours before the time of departure to ensure that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, such as the owner's manual as well as any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will make it easier for the check-in process and make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
When you reach the airline ticket counter or gate, be sure to be get more info able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Be sure to describe the kind of wheelchair you own and any other accessories you may require like cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair here for stowage or whether it will be transported to the plane using an appropriate cart. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book an express flight to reduce the number of times your device is moved between different locations.
Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo compartment with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra fees check here for storing a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment arrives damaged, you must take a photograph prior to leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.