Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many aspects to take into consideration when traveling with powered chairs. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you a lot of questions regarding the dimensions of your chair, battery type and how it should be handled.
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 air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are able to be safely transported and stored on planes. They will typically have an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be tucked under the plane as checked luggage. In addition they'll be able to move on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or roads that are muddy. They may also be equipped with a patented drive system which allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the gates for boarding. It is essential to contact the airline in advance to ensure that they are aware of any specific needs and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate these requirements. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of your departure time, which is especially important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is not large enough and is first come, first serve. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected in conjunction with the wheelchair or scooter, because federal regulations require they must be removed from the device unless it is equipped with an effective design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour prior to your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions as well as other useful information regarding your mobility or power chair. scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed for secure and comfortable travel. These power chairs can be folded 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 on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety. You can then put it into a carryon bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals aren't exposed, and that it is safely stored upright.
Depending on your airline or airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following information: your name address, number and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it gets lost or is mishandled on your trip. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will help you remain in your seat during transfers with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. Being earlier than that is even better particularly during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This lets you check in earlier and gives plenty of time for the airline representative to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you leave to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your wheelchair is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage in obtaining compensation for the damages from the airline. Consider bringing along an extra cushion for your seat to make your flight as comfortable as you can. Seat cushions are especially important for flights lasting over an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be daunting. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is possible with the proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Contact an airline representative prior to booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best method to check in your chair, whether it is at the counter for tickets 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 ensure it is safely stored to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the kind of chair you own It may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. If this is the case, it is beneficial to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions in order to aid the airline employees handling your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair, such as the owner's manual as well as warranty information. Also, take off any removable items and make sure that all controls work before leaving for the airport.
When you arrive at an airport your electric chair will be small electric wheel chair loaded into the cargo hold and stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge you extra for the stowing of assistive cost of electric wheelchair devices like power chairs. This is a great feature for passengers 25 stone capacity electric wheelchair with disabilities, since it allows them to save money.
A representative from the airline can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit down the aisle of the aircraft when the plane arrives. After click here disembarking, your wheelchair will be returned to you at the shortest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft or at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
A trip with an electric wheelchair can seem daunting, but with careful planning and adhering to the guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new destinations easily. The most important thing to remember is that if you are uncomfortable in your chair, you will never be able to enjoy the freedom that traveling provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for people who have mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, but it's essential to follow your airline's policies for transporting and stowing your chair on board the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to find out their policy on power chairs, and to ask any questions.
Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair on your flight, so that you prepare it properly to travel. Certain airlines may require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and some will require you to have a medical note on file prior to being able to allow you to fly with your motorized chair. Some airlines will also require you to remove the battery-powered part of your chair and then place it in a case that is protected.
When you arrive at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours before the time of departure to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documents you need to the airport, like your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will make it easier for the check-in process and can make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
When you arrive at the ticket counter or gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide the kind of wheelchair you own and any other accessories you may require, such as cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or whether it will be transported to the aircraft with an adapted cart. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book an direct flight to cut down on the amount of times your equipment is moved between locations.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane it will be stored in the cargo compartment, just like checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you additional fees for the storage of your scooter or wheelchair, just as they would with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, you must capture a photo before you leave the airport and small electric wheelchairs immediately notify the airline.