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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric WheelchairThere are several things you should consider when traveling with a powered chair. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you a lot of questions regarding your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have all these details in hand prior to you travel to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and stowed safely on airplanes. They usually have a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore they'll be able to maneuver on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or roads that are muddy. They can also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending that permits them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the boarding gates. However, it is important to contact them ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of your requirements and to confirm that they are able to meet those requirements. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of the time of departure, which is especially important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is limited and on an initial-come first-serve basis. The federal regulations also require that any additional batteries be checked with the wheelchair or scooter. They must be shut off unless they are designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before 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. Additionally, they request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and 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 an efficient and safe way to travel. They can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline standards for battery size handling, stowage, and handling. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist in planning your trip and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety and then place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals aren't exposed, and that it is safely stowed upright.
Depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following details such as your name address, address, phone number, and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it is lost or mishandled on your trip. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will assist you in staying in your chair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport 2 hours prior to your departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. If you can be there earlier than two hours before your departure time. This is especially crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and gives the representative of the airline plenty of time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you travel and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your device is damaged during your flight. This will give you the ability to seek compensation from the airline for damages. You should also consider bringing cushions for your seats, so that the flight is as comfortable as it can be for you. Seat cushions are especially important for flights lasting over an hour. They reduce pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline can be a daunting task. However, with the proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, traveling with your power chair is attainable.
Before booking your flight, speak to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best way to check-in your chair whether at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it's recommended that you arrive at least one hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure that it's safely and electric wheelchair power chair properly stored for your journey.
Based on the model of power read more chair you own, it may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. In this case, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the table to aid airline personnel who will handle your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any detachable accessories before you leave for the airport and also to ensure that all controls are working properly.
Once you are at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. Airlines are not permitted attendant controlled electric wheelchair to charge extra fees to store assistive devices, such as power chairs. This is a wonderful benefit for people with disabilities, because it can help them avoid unnecessary expenses.
An airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that 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 nearest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric check here wheelchair may seem daunting, but with careful planning and adhering to the guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new lightweight electric wheelchair destinations with ease. The most important thing to remember is that if you're not comfortable in your chair, you will never take advantage of the freedom that travel offers.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. If you have an electric or wheelchair could make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow the airline's guidelines regarding bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your departure to ask about their policy and ask any questions.
Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair on your flight, so long as you prepare it correctly for travel. Certain airlines might require you to charge the batteries before boarding, and some will require you to have a medical note on file before they will allow you to fly with your power chair. Some airlines may also demand that you take down the battery powered portion of your chair and place it into a case that is safe.
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. Bring any documents you require to the airport, like your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in process and can make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
When you reach the airline ticket counter or at the gate, be sure you communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any other accessories you may require like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be placing your wheelchair in a specific cart or checking it for stowage. If you're going to transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to book a direct flight, which will reduce the amount of times your equipment will be moved between various locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane it will be stored in the cargo compartment along with your checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra to store your scooter or wheelchair the same way they would with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, make sure you capture a photo prior to leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.