Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are many things to consider. The staff at the airport and at the airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to use it.
Make sure you have this information ready before you go to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that meet air travel regulations.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stored on planes. They will typically have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stowed underneath the plane as checked luggage. They'll also be able to navigate on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes, bricks or muddy roads. They could also have a patent-pending power drive system that permits them to maneuver in tight spaces or lifts.
Airlines will assist you for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the boarding gate. It is however important to contact them ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet your needs. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour ahead of your departure time, which is especially important during busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of a mobility scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited and is first come first served. Federal regulations also require that any additional batteries be inspected by a scooter or wheelchair. They must be shut off unless they are designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask to check-in at least an hour prior to your flight time to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other information regarding your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to provide a safe and convenient way to travel. These electric 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 the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can assist you in planning your travel itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines will require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is safely stowed in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you use, you may need to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, address, your number, and your wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it gets lost or is mishandled during your journey. You might also think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which help you remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airline and airport personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. Being earlier than that is even better, especially during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and gives the representative of the airline plenty of time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you travel and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during your flight. This will give you leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for any damages. It is also advisable to bring a seat cushion with you to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as it can be for you. Seat cushions are especially important for flights that last more than an hour. They will reduce pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been accepted by the airline can be intimidating. Air travel with a power chair is achievable with right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Speak to an airline representative before booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best way to check-in your chair, whether it is at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it's recommended that you arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This gives the airline ample time to examine your equipment and ensure that it will be stowed safely for your journey.
Depending on the type of power chair you have, it may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. If this is the case, it is important to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions in order to aid the here airline employees handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable items prior to you leave for the airport and to ensure all controls are in working order.
When you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the plane. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra for stowing assistive devices like power chairs. This is a wonderful benefit for people with disabilities, as it helps them avoid unnecessary expenses.
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 lands. Then, you will be able to get off the plane and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as is possible, either at the jet bridge or at the get more info gate.
It might be difficult to travel in an electric chair, but with the right planning and following the rules you will be able to enjoy exploring new places. It is crucial to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your amazon power chairs chair, you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be extremely stressful for those with mobility issues. If you have an electric or wheelchair could make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's guidelines for taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact the airline prior to your departure to inquire about their policies and ask any questions.
Most airlines will let you bring an electric chair on your flight, so provided you prepare it properly for travel. Some airlines require that you charge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a doctor's letter prior to allowing you to fly with a powered wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require you to remove the battery-powered component of your wheelchair and place it in a case that is protected.
Get to the airport at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your flight. It's also a cheap electric wheelchairs good idea to bring any documentation, like your owner's manual or instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid to the airport. This will help speed up the check-in process and prevent any confusion regarding your airline's wheelchair policies.
When you reach the airline ticket counter or gate, make sure to be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Discuss your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you may require, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or the possibility of transferring it to the plane using an appropriate cart. If you're taking a transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, try to make a direct flight which will reduce the number of times your equipment is moved between locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, read more it's stored in the cargo compartment along with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair, just as they would with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, make sure you take a photograph before you leave the airport and immediately inform the airline.