Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several aspects to take into consideration when traveling with a powered chair. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you numerous questions regarding your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.
Be sure to have all of these details in hand prior to you travel to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that comply with air travel regulations.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and stowed safely on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for travel on planes, and they can be stored in the airplane as checked baggage. They can also move on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration stripes, brick or muddy road. They could also have an exclusive power drive system that enables them to maneuver in tight spaces or lifts.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the boarding gates. However, it is important to contact them ahead of time to ensure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet those needs. Some airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to your departure time, which is especially important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is limited and on the basis of first-come-first-serve. The federal regulations also require that all batteries added to the system be checked with the scooter or wheelchair. They must be shut off unless they are specifically designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour before your flight to ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain assembly/disassembly information and other helpful information regarding your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are made for comfortable and safe travel. These power chairs can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines regarding battery size and handling, as well as stowage. If you are planning to travel with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These experts can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair for safety purposes and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed, and it is stowed upright.
Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, address, your telephone number, and the wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event that it gets lost or is mishandled during your journey. You might also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that aid you in staying in your wheelchair when you transfer with airport and airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport 2 hours prior to your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment storage. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better especially during busy holiday times 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.
Take a photo of your wheelchair before you travel. This serves as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for any damages. You should consider bringing cushions to make your flight as comfortable as you possibly can. Cushions for seats are essential for flights that last more than an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those who travel with an approved electric wheelchair, getting on a plane is an intimidating experience. Traveling with a power chair is possible with the right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Contact an airline representative prior to making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They will be able to help you navigate in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to get your seat at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour prior to your flight is recommended. This gives the airline ample time to examine your equipment and ensure it will be stowed safely here for your trip.
Depending on the kind of chair you own It could be necessary to disassemble it check here for transport. If this is the case, it is important to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions available to assist staff of the airline handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any detachable accessories before you go to the airport, and to make sure all of the controls are functioning properly.
Once you arrive at an airport the electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and stowed. 25 stone capacity electric wheelchair Airlines are not allowed to charge extra check here for the stowing of assistive devices such as electric chairs. This is a great feature for passengers with disabilities, since it allows them to save money.
After the plane has landed at the airport, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to one that is able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you can disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the nearest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft or at the jetbridge or the gate.
It might be difficult to travel with an electric chair, but with right planning and following guidelines, you can enjoy exploring new places. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if not comfortable in your chair, you'll not be able to fully take advantage of the freedom that travel offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be extremely stressful for those who have mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, however it's important to adhere to the guidelines of your airline for transporting and stowing your chair on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your departure to inquire about their policy and ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow passengers to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight, so provided it's prepared for travel. Certain airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will require a physician's letter to allow you to fly with a power wheelchair. Some airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered component of your wheelchair and place it in a protective case.
When you more info arrive at the airport, make sure you arrive at least two hours before your departure time to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, like the owner's manual as well as any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
Upon arriving at the ticket counter or gate, make sure to clearly communicate your mobility requirements. Explain your wheelchair and any other accessories you might require like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage or if it will be transferred to the plane using an appropriate cart. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book an express flight to reduce the number times your equipment is moved between locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane it will be stored in the cargo compartment, just like checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. Take a photo of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.