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 numerous questions regarding your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have these details ready prior to your trip to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that comply with the air travel regulations.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and stowed safely on airplanes. The FAA will allow them to be used for travel on planes, and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. In addition they'll be able to maneuver on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or muddy roads. They may also have an exclusive power drive system that allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or lifts.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the boarding gates. However, it is essential to contact them prior to time to make sure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet those requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive one hour prior to your scheduled departure time which is essential during busy travel periods.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. This space is limited and it's first come first served. The federal regulations also require that any additional batteries be inspected by a scooter or wheelchair. They must be disconnected unless they are specifically designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask to check-in one hour prior to your flight time so that they can ensure proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request to fill out 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 made for secure and comfortable travel. These power chairs can be folded and are in line with airline standards for battery size and handling, as well as stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist in planning your itinerary and give you the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines ask that you remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and put it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is secured in a upright position.
Based on your airline depending on your airline, you might be required to label your wheelchair with the following details including your name address, address, phone number, and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event that it is lost or mishandled on your trip. You may also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that help you remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airline and airport personnel.
You should arrive at the airport 2 hours before your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. Being earlier than that is even better if possible particularly during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This allows you to arrive early and allows plenty of time for the airline representative to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Before you leave, take a picture of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged during your flight. This will give you leverage in pursuing compensation for the damages from the airline. Consider bringing along cushions to make the flight as comfortable as you possibly can. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights that last more than an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, getting on a plane could be an overwhelming experience. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is achievable with right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the best direction, regardless of whether you prefer to make your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour before your flight is recommended. This allows the airline plenty of time to check your equipment and make sure that it is safely stored for your trip.
Based on the power chair you have, it may website be necessary to disassemble it before transport. In this instance, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the go to help airline personnel who will handle your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair, including the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any accessories that can be removed prior to when you leave for the airport and also to ensure that all controls are functioning properly.
Once you arrive at the airport the electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging you an additional cost to store assistive devices like electric wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for those with disabilities since it allows them to avoid costly expenses.
An airline employee will be able transfer you from your click here powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which can be able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft when the plane arrives. After disembarking, your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible location to the aircraft door or at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with the right planning and following the rules, you can enjoy exploring new destinations. It is essential to keep in mind that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to enjoy the freedom it offers.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for passengers who have mobility issues. If you're traveling with mobility scooters or wheelchairs could make your experience more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow the airline's guidelines regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to find out their policy on power get more info chairs, and to ask any questions.
Most airlines allow passengers to bring an electric wheelchair on your trip as provided it's prepared for travel. attendant controlled electric wheelchair Some airlines may require you to charge the batteries prior to boarding and some may require you to have a doctor's recommendation on file before they will allow you to fly using your motorized chair. Certain airlines may also require that you remove the battery-powered portion of your chair and place it into a case that is safe.
Get to the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, like 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 process of checking in and will prevent any confusion regarding your airline's wheelchair policies.
When you arrive at the ticket counter or gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility requirements. Explain the kind of wheelchair you're using and any other accessories you may require like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or if it will be transferred to the plane using an appropriate cart. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book a direct flight to minimize here the number of times your device is moved between places.
Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo area along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of your scooter or wheelchair, the same way they would with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, you must take a photograph before leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.