A Comprehensive Guide To Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair From Beginning To End
A Comprehensive Guide To Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair From Beginning To End
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are many aspects to be considered. The airport staff and airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair, battery type, and how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information ready prior to your trip to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with air travel regulations.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines can be safely transported and stowed on planes. They will typically have an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stowed underneath the plane as checked luggage. Additionally they'll be able to navigate on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or muddy roads. They may also be equipped with a patented drive system that allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter until the boarding gate. However, it is important to contact them prior to time to ensure that they are aware of your needs and confirm that they can meet those requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive at least an hour prior to your scheduled departure, which is especially important during busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their aircrafts to allow the stowage and storage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited and operates on the basis of first-come-first-serve. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair as federal regulations require that they be disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with a safe design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask to check-in at least an hour before your flight so that they can ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather 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 comply with airline guidelines for 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 latest information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety. You can then put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is secured in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you use depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, address, your phone number, as well as 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 also want to think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which aid you in staying in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure the proper stowage of your equipment is done. If possible, electric lightweight wheelchair arrive earlier than two hours prior to your departure time. This is especially important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This allows you to check in earlier and gives plenty of time for the airline representative to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you travel to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during your flight. This will give you leverage in obtaining compensation for the damages from the airline. You should also think about bringing an extra cushion for your seat to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights that last more than an hour. They can reduce pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, the process of boarding a plane can be a daunting prospect. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is possible with the proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, talk to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best method to check into your seat, whether it is at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it is recommended that you arrive at least one hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure it is safely and properly stored for your journey.
Based on the power chair you have It may be necessary to disassemble the chair prior to transportation. If this is the case, it is important to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to help the airline employees handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. You should also remove any removable accessories and check whether all controls function before you depart for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and then stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging you a cost to store assistive devices like electric wheelchairs. This is a wonderful benefit for people with disabilities, since it allows them to avoid costly expenses.
When the plane lands at the airport, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your power wheelchair to one that is able to fit down the aircraft aisle. Then, you can disembark, and your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the shortest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or the gate.
It might be difficult to travel with an electric chair, but with the right planning and following the rules you can have fun exploring new locations. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you're uncomfortable in your chair, you'll never enjoy the freedom that traveling affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for people with mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, however it is important to follow your airline's policies for transporting and stowing your chair on board the airplane. Contact the airline in advance to inquire about their policy regarding power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair for your flight, as provided you prepare it correctly to travel. Some airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will need a doctor's letter prior to allowing you to fly with your powered wheelchair. Some airlines will also require you to disassemble the battery-powered portion of your chair and put it inside a protective case.
When you arrive at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. Bring any documentation you might require to the airport, like your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will make it easier for the check-in process and make sure that there is no confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.
Upon arriving at the ticket counter or gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Be sure to describe the kind of wheelchair you own and any accessories you require, such as cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or if it will be transferred to the aircraft using a specialized cart. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book a direct flight to minimize the number of times your device is moved between places.
When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment along with your checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment arrives damaged, you must capture a photo before leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.