Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are several things to consider. The airport staff and at the airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information in your possession prior to you head to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stowed on planes. They usually have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel and can be tucked under the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore they'll be able to maneuver on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or roads that are muddy. They may also have a patented power drive system that allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or lifts.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the boarding gates. However, it is essential to contact them ahead of time to make sure they are aware of your needs and to confirm they can meet those requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive one hour prior to 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 not large enough and it's first come first served. Federal regulations also require that any additional batteries be checked with the scooter or wheelchair. They must be shut off unless they are designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour before your flight, so 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 information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other information about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to provide a safe and convenient method of travel. These chairs are designed to fold and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and storage. If you are planning to fly with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist you in preparing your itinerary and give you the most current information on battery requirements. They can also give you assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair for safety purposes and place it into a carryon bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed, and that it is placed upright.
Depending on the airline you fly with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, address, your telephone number, and the wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it is lost or mishandled during your journey. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will help you remain in your chair during transfers with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure the proper stowage of your equipment is accomplished. Arriving earlier than this is even better if possible, especially during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and gives the airline representative plenty of time to help you stow your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair before you travel. This will serve as proof if your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for any damages. You should also think about bringing a seat cushion with you so that your journey is as relaxing as possible for you. Cushions for seats are essential for flights that last more than an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin preventing soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane is an overwhelming experience. However, with proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, air travel with a power chair is attainable.
Before booking your flight, you website should speak with an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best way to check in your chair, whether it is at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour before your flight is recommended. This allows the airline plenty of time to inspect your equipment and make sure that it is safely stored for your journey.
Depending on the model of your power chair, it may be necessary to disassemble it before transport. In this case, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the go to help airline employees who handle your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. Also, remove any removable accessories and make sure whether all controls function before you depart for the airport.
When you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and stowed. Airlines are not allowed to charge you extra for the stowing of assistive devices such as get more info power chairs. This is a great feature for people with disabilities, as it helps them save money.
Once the plane is in the air at the airport, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to slide down the aircraft aisle. You can then disembark and your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the nearest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
Traveling with an electric wheelchair can seem intimidating, but with proper planning and adhering to guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the thrill of exploring new places easily. It is essential to keep in mind that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it check here offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for people who suffer from mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stress-inducing for you, but it is important to follow your airline's policies for bringing and stowing your chair on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact the airline prior to your travels to inquire about their policies and ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair for your flight, as long as you prepare it for 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 more info battery-powered portion of your wheelchair, and then place it in an enclosure that is protected.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure so that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to flight. It's important to bring any documentation, such as your owner manual and any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.
If you click here are at the ticket counter of your airline or gate, be sure you explain your mobility needs clearly. Explain your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you might require like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether they will be storing your wheelchair in a special cart or checking it for stowage. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book a direct flight to minimize the amount of times your equipment is moved between locations.
Once your wheelchair is in the plane it will be stored in the cargo compartment, just like checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra to store your scooter or wheelchair, like they do with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, be sure to capture a photo prior to leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.