Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are many things to consider. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you numerous questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Be sure to have all this information in your possession prior to you travel to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that comply with 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. The FAA can approve them for travel on planes, and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. In addition, they will be able to move on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips brick or muddy roads. They could also be equipped with a patent-pending power drive system that allows them to move in tight spaces or lifts.
Airlines will provide assistance with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the boarding gate. It is essential to contact the airline prior to your departure to ensure that they are aware of any specific needs and confirm that they will be able to accommodate the requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to the time of departure This is particularly important during busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is not large enough and it's first come, first serve. They also require that any extra batteries be checked as part of the scooter or wheelchair, because federal regulations require they must be removed from the device unless the chair is equipped with an effective design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to you bring an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask that you check in one hour prior to your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent information regarding 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. These power chairs are made to fold and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and storage. If you're planning to fly with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These experts can assist you in planning your travel itinerary and provide you with the latest information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety purposes and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that the battery is securely tucked away in a straight position.
Depending on the airline you use depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, your address, your phone number, and your wheelchair model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment in case it gets lost or mishandled during your trip. You may also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will allow you to remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airport and airline personnel.
You should arrive at at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure the proper stowage of your equipment is completed. If you are able be there earlier than two hours prior to your scheduled departure time. This is especially crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This allows you to check in early and allows the representative of the airline plenty of time to help you stow your chair.
Before you leave, take a picture of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for any damages from the airline. You should also think about bringing an extra cushion for your seat, so that the flight is as relaxing as possible for you. cheap electric wheelchairs A seat cushion is especially important for flights that last over an hour, as it reduces pressure on your skin and help prevent 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 proper preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, flying with your power chair is feasible.
Before booking your flight, talk to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can assist you website in the best way to check-in your chair whether at the here counter for tickets or the gate. In either case, arriving one hour before your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure it is safely and properly stored for your trip.
Based on the model of power chair you own It could be necessary to disassemble it for transport. In this situation, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the go to help airline employees who handle your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. It is also recommended to remove any accessories that are removable and make sure that all controls work before you leave for the airport.
Once you are at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the airplane. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra fees to store assistive devices, like electric chairs. This is a great feature for people with disabilities, because it can help them avoid unnecessary expenses.
An airline employee can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that will fit on the aisle of the aircraft when the plane arrives. Then, you will be able to get off the plane and your wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with the right planning and following guidelines you can have fun exploring new locations. It is crucial to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to enjoy the freedom it offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for those who have mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, however it's important to adhere to your airline's policies for the transportation and storage of your chair on board the airplane. Contact the airline in advance to learn about their policies on power chairs, and to ask any questions.
Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair for your flight, as long as you prepare it for here travel. Certain airlines may require you to discharge the batteries before boarding, and some may require you to have a doctor's recommendation on file before they will allow you to fly using your electric chair. Certain airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery-powered portion of your chair and place it into a protective case.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours before the time of departure to ensure that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before flight. Bring any documentation you may require to the airport, including your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will help speed up the check-in process and make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
When you arrive at the ticket counter of your airline or at the gate, be sure to communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Explain check here the kind of wheelchair you own and any other accessories you may require, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be storing your wheelchair in a specific cart or examining it for storage. If you're transferring to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to book a direct flight, which will reduce the number of times your equipment is moved between various locations.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment as checked luggage. 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. Take a picture of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.