Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are several things to take into consideration. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you a lot of questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type as well as how to handle it.
Be sure to have these details in hand prior to you leave for 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 safely stowed on planes. They usually have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel and can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. They can also move on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration stripes, roads that are muddy or brick. They may also be equipped with a unique drive system that permits them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter until the gate to board. However, it is important to contact them ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of your needs and confirm that they can meet those needs. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour before your scheduled departure time, which is important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is limited and is first come, first served. The federal regulations also demand that any additional batteries be checked by the scooter or wheelchair. They must be disconnected unless they are designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask to check-in at least an hour prior to your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent details about your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to offer a safe and convenient way to travel. These electric chairs can be folded and comply with airline guidelines for battery size and handling, as well as stowage. If you are planning to travel with your airline of choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist in preparing your itinerary and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require you to remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed and that it is safely stored upright.
Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, your address, your number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment in case it gets lost or damaged during your travels. 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 airline and airport personnel.
You should always arrive at the airport at two hours before the departure time you have scheduled to ensure that proper stowage of your equipment is done. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better if possible particularly during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This lets you check in early and provides plenty of time for the airline representative to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you travel to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during your flight. This will give you leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for any damages. Consider bringing along cushions to make the flight as comfortable as you can. Using a seat cushion is particularly important for flights that last over an hour, as it will reduce the pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
If you are website traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, getting on a plane is a daunting prospect. However, with proper preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, flying using your electric chair is feasible.
Speak to an airline representative before click here making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They get more info will be able to guide you 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, it's recommended that you arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This gives the airline ample time to inspect your equipment and ensure it will be safely towed to be ready for your trip.
Based on the power chair you have, it may be necessary to disassemble the chair prior to transportation. In this case, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the go to help airline employees who handle your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any removable items and ensure that all controls are functioning before you depart for the airport.
When you arrive at an airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and then stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge you extra for stowing assistive devices like electric chairs. This is a great benefit for those with disabilities as it allows them to avoid costly expenses.
Once the plane is in the air at the airport, an airline employee 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 click here disembark, and your wheelchair is returned to you at the shortest possible location to the aircraft door or at the jetbridge or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric wheelchair may seem daunting, but with careful planning and adherence to guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new locations easily. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if uncomfortable in your chair, you will not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that traveling offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for passengers with mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stress-inducing for you, but it is important to follow the guidelines of your airline for bringing and stowing your chair on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact your airline before your trip to inquire about their policy and to get any questions answered.
Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized chair for your flight, so long as you prepare it properly to travel. Certain airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will require a physician's letter to allow you to fly with your power wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require that you remove the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair, and then place it in a case that is safe.
Once you're at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's important to bring any documentation, such as the owner's manual as well as any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will make it easier for the check-in process and prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
If you are at the ticket counter of your airline or gate, make sure get more info to be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Discuss your wheelchair and any accessories you might require, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage or if it will be transferred to the aircraft with a specialized cart. If you're taking a transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, make sure to make a direct flight which will cut down on the number of times that your equipment will be transferred between locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo compartment with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. Take a photo of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.