Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few aspects to take into consideration when traveling with an electric chair. The airport staff and at the airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to handle it.
Be sure to have all this information at hand before you head to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are able to be safely transported and stored on planes. They will typically have an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore they'll be able to maneuver on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or roads that are muddy. They may also have a patented power drive system that permits them to move in tight spaces or lifts.
Airlines will assist you for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate to board. It is essential to contact the airline prior to your departure to ensure they are aware of any special needs and confirm that they can meet these requirements. Some airlines require you to arrive an hour before your departure time This is crucial during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes that allows for the stowage and storage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited and on an initial-come first-serve basis. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected as part of the wheelchair or scooter, because federal regulations require they must be removed from the device unless the chair is equipped with a secure design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require to check-in one hour prior to your flight time so that they can ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. Additionally, they request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions and other helpful information about your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to offer a safe and convenient method of travel. They can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines regarding battery size and handling, as well as stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These experts can assist you in planning your travel itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date details regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require you to take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is secured in a upright position.
Depending on the airline you fly with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, your address, your telephone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment in case it should become lost or damaged during your travels. You might also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which help you remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airport and airline personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. If possible you can arrive earlier than two hours check here prior to the time you plan to depart. This is especially important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and gives the airline representative ample time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you travel, take a picture of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during your flight. This will give you the possibility of pursuing compensation from read more the airline for damages. You should consider bringing a seat cushion to make the flight as comfortable as possible. Using a seat cushion is especially important for flights that will last more than an hour, since it will reduce pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those who travel using an approved airline electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane is an overwhelming experience. However, with the proper preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, air travel with a power chair is feasible.
Speak to an airline representative prior to booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They will be able to guide you in the best direction, whether you prefer to make your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour before your flight is suggested. This gives the airline ample time to inspect your equipment and make sure that it is safely stored to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the type of power chair you own It could be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. In this situation it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the table to aid airline personnel who will handle your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair, including the owner's manual as well as warranty information. You should also take off any removable items and make sure that all controls are functioning before leaving for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the airplane. The airlines are not allowed to charging an additional cost to store assistive devices like electric wheelchairs. This is an get more info excellent benefit for people with disabilities, as it helps them save money.
After the plane has landed in the air, a representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you can disembark, and your wheelchair is returned to you at the nearest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft or at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
A trip with an electric wheelchair may seem daunting, but with the right planning and adherence to guidelines, it is possible to experience the joy of exploring new destinations with ease. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if uncomfortable in your chair, you'll never be able to take advantage of the freedom that travel offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for passengers with mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience more info less stressful for you, however it's important to adhere to the policies of your airline regarding the transportation and storage of your chair on board the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your travels to ask about their policy and get any questions answered.
Most airlines will allow you to bring an electric wheelchair on your flight as long as it's properly prepared for travel. Some airlines might require you to recharge the batteries before boarding, and some will need to have a doctor's note in order to allow you to fly with your electric chair. Some airlines may also require that you remove the battery-powered portion of your chair and place it into an enclosure that is protected.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that read more your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to departure. Bring any documents you require to the airport, like your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will make it easier for the check-in process and prevent any confusion regarding your airline's wheelchair policies.
When you reach the ticket counter of your airline or at the gate, be sure to be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide the type of wheelchair you have and any accessories you require, such as cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be placing your wheelchair in a specific cart or checking it for storage. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book a direct flight to minimize the number times your equipment is moved between locations.
Once your wheelchair is in the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment along with your checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment is damaged, you must take a photograph before you leave the airport and immediately notify the airline.