Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many things to consider when traveling with a powered chair. The staff at the airport and airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to use it.
Be sure to have this information at hand before you travel to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with the regulations for air travel.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stowed on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for air travel and they can be kept under the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore they'll be able to navigate on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or roads that are muddy. They could also be fitted with a unique drive system which allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate for boarding. It is essential to call the airline ahead of time to make sure they are aware of any specific requirements and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate these requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour ahead of your departure time, which is especially important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is not large enough and is first come first served. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected in conjunction with the scooter or wheelchair since federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless it is equipped with a secure design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require that you check in one hour before your flight, to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions and other helpful information about your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure comfortable and safe travel. These chairs are designed to fold and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling, and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist in planning your itinerary and give you the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is safely stowed in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you use or airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following details such as your name, address, phone number and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it is lost or mishandled on your trip. You might also think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will allow you to remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airline and airport personnel.
You should arrive at at two hours before the time of departure to ensure that the proper storage of your equipment is completed. Being earlier than that is even better if possible particularly during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This lets you check-in early and gives the representative of the airline plenty of time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you leave to another destination, take a photo of more info your wheelchair to prove in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for the damages from the airline. Consider bringing along an extra cushion for your seat to make the trip as comfortable as you possibly can. Cushions for seats are essential for flights that last more than an hour. They reduce the pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those who travel with an approved electric wheelchair, getting on a plane is an overwhelming experience. transportable electric wheelchair Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is possible with the right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, talk to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best method to check in your chair, whether it is at the counter for tickets or the gate. In either case, it is advised to arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to inspect your equipment and ensure that it is safely stored for your journey.
Depending on the type of chair you own It could be required to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it's helpful to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to help the staff of the airline handling your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair, like the owner's manual or warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any accessories that can be removed prior to when you travel to the airport, and to make sure all of the more info controls are in working order.
Once you are at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. The airlines are not allowed to charging you an additional cost to store assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is a wonderful benefit for passengers with disabilities, as it helps them save money.
After the plane has landed in the air, a representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your power wheelchair to one that is able to fit down the aircraft aisle. After disembarking, your wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft or at the jetbridge or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric wheelchair may seem intimidating, but with proper planning and adherence to guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new locations without difficulty. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if not comfortable in your chair, you will never be able to take advantage of the freedom that travel affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for website those who suffer from mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stress-inducing for check here you, but it is important to follow the policies of your airline regarding the transportation and storage of your chair on board the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact the airline prior to your travels to ask about their policy and get any questions answered.
Most airlines will allow you to bring an electric wheelchair on your flight, so long as it's properly prepared for travel. Some airlines might require you to recharge the batteries prior to boarding and some will require you to have a medical note on file before they will let you fly with your power chair. Certain airlines may also require you to disassemble the battery-powered portion of your chair and put 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 prior to your departure. It's important to bring any documentation, such as the owner's manual as well as any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will speed up check-in process and avoid confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
Upon arriving at the airline's ticket counter or gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Be sure to describe the kind of wheelchair you're using and any other accessories you may require like cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage or if it will be transferred to the aircraft with a specialized cart. If you're transferring to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to book a direct flight, which will minimize the number of times your equipment will be moved between different locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. Take a photograph of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.