Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several things to consider when traveling with powered chairs. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you a lot of questions regarding your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Be sure to have all of these details in hand prior to you travel to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that comply with air travel regulations.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be carried and safely stowed on planes. They typically come with an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be tucked under the plane as checked luggage. They'll also be able to move on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes, bricks or muddy roads. They may also have a patent-pending power drive system that enables them to navigate in tight spaces, or lifts.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the boarding gates. It is crucial to contact the airline in advance to ensure that they are aware of any specific requirements and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate the requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of your scheduled departure, which is especially important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes that allows for the stowage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited and on an initial-come first-serve basis. Federal regulations also require that all batteries added to the system be checked with the scooter or wheelchair. They must be disconnected unless they are specifically designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when bringing electric wheelchairs or scooters on their flights. They also request that you check in one hour prior to your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions and other helpful information about your mobility or power chair. scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to offer an efficient and safe way to 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 the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in preparing your itinerary and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety. You can then put it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is secured in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you travel with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, address, your phone 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 on your trip. You may want to buy aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will assist you in staying in your seat during transfers with airport personnel and airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport 2 hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. Arriving earlier than this is even better, especially during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This allows you to check in earlier and gives plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you in stowing your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair prior to travel. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will help you in pursuing compensation for any damages from the airline. You should consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to make the flight as comfortable as possible. Seat cushions are especially important for flights that last more than an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline can be daunting. Air travel with a power chair is achievable with proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Speak to an airline representative before making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best method to check-in your chair whether at the counter for tickets or the gate. In either case, it's recommended that you arrive at least one hour before your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure that it is properly stored for your journey.
Depending on the kind of chair you own It may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. In this situation it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the go to help airline employees who handle your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any accessories that can be removed prior to when you go to the airport and to ensure all controls are in working order.
Once you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the plane. The airlines are not allowed to charging you a fee to stow assistive devices, such as power wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for those who have disabilities, as they can avoid costly expenses.
When the plane lands in the air, a representative from the airline will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to one that is able to fit in the aisle of the aircraft. You will then be able to disembark, 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 gate.
It might be difficult to travel with an electric chair, but with right planning and following the rules you will be able to enjoy exploring new locations. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you are uncomfortable in your chair, you'll never take advantage of the freedom that travel affords.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, however it's essential to follow heavy duty electric wheelchair uk your airline's policies for bringing and stowing your chair on board the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact your airline before your trip to inquire about their policies and ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow passengers to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your trip as provided it's prepared for travel. Some airlines might require you to recharge the batteries before boarding, and some will require you to have a doctor's note in order to allow you to fly with your power chair. Some airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery powered portion of your wheelchair, and place it in a protective case.
Get to the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure so that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to flight. 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 the check-in process and make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
When you reach the counter for tickets to airline or at the gate, be sure to be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Explain the kind of wheelchair you own and any accessories you require like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or whether it will be transported to the aircraft with an adapted cart. If you're going to transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, you should try to make a direct flight which will cut down on the amount of times your equipment will be moved between locations.
Once your wheelchair is in the plane it will be stored in the cargo compartment, just like checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you extra to store your wheelchair or scooter, like they do with your luggage. Take a photograph of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.