Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many things you should consider when traveling with powered chairs. The airport staff and at the airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair, battery type, and how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information in your possession prior to you head to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and stowed safely on planes. They usually have a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be tucked under the plane as checked luggage. In addition they'll be able to navigate on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips brick or muddy roads. They could also be fitted with a drive system that is patent-pending which allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the boarding gates. It is crucial to contact the airline in advance to make sure they are aware of any special needs and to confirm that they are able to meet these requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour ahead of your departure time which 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. This space is limited, and it's first come, first serve. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected in conjunction with the scooter or wheelchair since federal regulations require that they be disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a secure design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to bringing electric wheelchairs or scooters aboard their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour before your flight so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful information about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure secure and comfortable travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold, and they meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling, and stowage. If you're planning to travel with the airline of your preference, you should contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair for safety purposes and place it into a carryon bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed, and that it is stored upright.
Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, address, your phone number, and your wheelchair model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment if it is lost or damaged during your travels. You may also consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which help you remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that proper stowage of your equipment is completed. If possible you can arrive earlier than get more info two lightweight wheelchair electric hours before the time you plan to depart. This is particularly crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and allows the airline representative ample time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair prior to traveling. This can be used as proof in the event that your device gets damaged during the flight. This will help you in here pursuing compensation for damages from the airline. Consider bringing along a seat cushion to make the trip as comfortable as possible. Seat cushions are particularly important when you travel for more than an hour. They will reduce pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane is an intimidating experience. But, with the right preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, traveling with your power chair is attainable.
Contact an airline representative before making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best way to check into your seat whether at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it's recommended to arrive at least one hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to examine your equipment and make sure that it will be safely towed to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the kind of power chair you own It may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. In this case, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the go to help airline personnel who will handle your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as read more well as warranty information. You should also remove any removable accessories and make sure whether all controls function before leaving for the airport.
Once you arrive at the airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging you an additional cost to store assistive devices, such as electric wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for people with disabilities since it allows them to avoid unnecessary costs.
After the plane has landed in the air, a representative from the airline will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit in the aisle of the aircraft. You can then disembark and your wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric wheelchair can seem daunting, but with careful planning and adhering to guidelines, you can be able to experience the joy of exploring new locations without difficulty. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if not comfortable moving around in your chair, you'll never enjoy the freedom that traveling affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for those who have mobility problems. If you're traveling with an electric or wheelchair could make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow the airline's guidelines regarding taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact your airline prior to your travels to ask about their policy and to get any questions answered.
Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair for your flight, as that you prepare it correctly for travel. Some airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a physician's letter lightest electric wheelchair prior to allowing you to fly with your powered wheelchair. Some airlines may also demand that you take down the battery powered portion of your chair, and place it in a protective case.
Get to the airport at least two hours before the time of departure to ensure that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to departure. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, such as your owner manual and any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid to the airport. This will help speed up the check-in process and prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
On arrival at the airline's ticket counter or at the gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Explain the kind of wheelchair you own and any necessary accessories, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage or whether it will be transported to the aircraft with an adapted cart. If you're transferring to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to make a direct flight which will minimize the number of times your equipment is moved between different locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment along with your checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you extra to store your scooter or wheelchair, just as they would with your luggage. Take a photograph of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.