Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are a few aspects to be considered. The staff at the airport and airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information ready before you go to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that meet the regulations for air travel.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are able to be safely transported and stowed on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for use on flights, and they can be stowed under the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore they'll be able to navigate on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or roads that are muddy. They could also be fitted with a drive system that is patent-pending which allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate to board. It is however important to contact them ahead of time to ensure they are aware of your needs and to confirm that they are able to meet your needs. Certain airlines require you to arrive one hour prior to your scheduled departure time This is crucial during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is limited and operates on an initial-come first-serve basis. The federal regulations also demand that any additional batteries be checked by the wheelchair or scooter. They must be removed unless they are specifically designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair on their flights. They also request to check-in at least an hour before your flight to ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful details about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure comfortable and safe travel. These power chairs are made to fold up and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in planning your travel itinerary and provide you with the latest information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety and then place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is securely tucked away in a upright position.
Depending on the airline you use depending on your airline, you might be asked 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 quickly and accurately identify the equipment if it is lost or damaged during your travels. You may also want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will help you remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airline and airport personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at at two hours before the departure time you have scheduled to ensure the proper storage of your equipment is accomplished. Being earlier than that is even better, especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This lets you check-in early and allows the airline representative plenty of time to assist you with stowing power chairs uk your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair before you travel. This serves as proof if mobility electric chair your device is damaged during the flight. This will read more give you the possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for damages. You should also think about bringing an extra cushion for your seat to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as possible for heavy duty electric wheelchair you. Cushions for seats are essential when you travel for more than an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, the process of boarding a plane can be an intimidating experience. Traveling with a power chair is feasible with proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Speak to an airline representative prior to making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best way to check-in your chair whether at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it is advised to arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure it is safely stored to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the model of your power chair It could be necessary for you to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it's helpful to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions available to assist staff of the airline handling your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair, such as the owner's manual or warranty information. You should also remove any removable accessories and make sure whether all controls function before you depart for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and then stowed. Airlines are not allowed to charge you extra to store assistive devices, such as electric chairs. This is a huge benefit for people who have disabilities, as it allows them to save money.
When the plane lands, an airline employee will be able to transfer you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to fit down the aircraft aisle. You can then disembark and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the nearest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or at the gate.
Traveling with an electric wheelchair may seem daunting, but with careful planning and adherence to guidelines, it is possible to experience the joy of exploring new locations easily. The most important thing to remember is that if you are uncomfortable in your chair, you will never enjoy the freedom that traveling affords.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for people with mobility issues. If you're using a wheelchair or a scooter, it can make your trip more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow the airline's policies regarding bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to learn about their policies on power chairs and to ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, so provided you prepare it properly to travel. Some airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a doctor's letter to allow you to fly with a electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also require you to remove the battery-powered component of your chair and put it in a case that is protected.
Once you're at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours before your scheduled departure time so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. Bring any documentation you may need to the airport, like your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in and prevent confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
If you are at the counter for tickets to airline or gate, make sure you communicate your mobility check here requirements clearly. Explain the kind of wheelchair you're using and any accessories you require like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or the possibility of transferring it to the plane using an appropriate cart. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book a direct flight to minimize the amount of times your equipment is moved between locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment, just like checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you extra to store your scooter or wheelchair, the same way they would with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, you must capture a photo before leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.