Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are a few aspects to be considered. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you many questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have this information ready prior to your trip to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that comply with the air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and stowed safely on planes. They typically come with an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. In addition, they will be able to maneuver on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips brick or muddy roads. They can also be equipped with a patented drive system which allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the boarding gates. However, it is essential to contact them ahead of time to make sure they are aware of your needs and confirm that they can meet those requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour before your departure time, which is especially important 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 wheelchair or mobility scooter. This space is limited and it's first come first served. They also require that any additional batteries be checked as part of the scooter or wheelchair, because federal regulations require they be disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with a secure design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair on their flights. They also require to check-in one hour prior to your flight to ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. They also request to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions as well as other useful information regarding your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to provide a safe and convenient way to travel. These electric chairs can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline guidelines regarding battery size handling, stowage, and handling. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in planning your itinerary and give you the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety. You can then put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals aren't exposed, and it is stowed upright.
Depending on the airline you use, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following details: your name address, address, phone number, and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it is lost or damaged during your travels. You may also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will allow you to remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airport and airline personnel.
You should always arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the departure time you have scheduled to ensure the proper storage of your equipment is done. Being earlier than that is even better if possible read more especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and provides ample time for the representative of the airline to assist you with stowing your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair before you travel. This serves as proof if your device gets damaged during the flight. This will help you in pursuing compensation for any damages from the airline. You should consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to make the flight as comfortable as you can. Using a seat cushion is essential for flights that will last more than an hour, since it reduces the pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline can be daunting. However, with the proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, air travel using your electric chair is possible.
Before you book your flight, talk to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best method to check into your seat, whether it is at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour prior to your flight is recommended. This gives the airline ample time to inspect your equipment and ensure that it will be safely towed to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the kind of power chair you have It could be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. If this is the case, it is beneficial to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to help the airline employees handling your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair, such as the owner's manual or warranty information. It is also recommended to remove any removable accessories and check whether all controls function before you depart for the airport.
When you arrive at an airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra for the stowing of assistive devices like electric chairs. This is a great benefit for passengers who have disabilities, as they can avoid unnecessary costs.
After the plane has landed, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your power wheelchair check here to a wheelchair that is able to slide down the aircraft aisle. Then, you will be able to disembark, and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel website with an electric chair, but with right planning and following the rules you will be able to enjoy exploring new locations. It is important to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to travel with the freedom it affords.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for passengers who suffer from mobility problems. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the experience less stress-inducing for you, but it's essential to follow your airline's policies for transporting and stowing your chair on board the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact the airline prior to more info your departure to ask about their policy and ask any questions.
Most airlines allow you to take a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight as you've prepared it for travel. Certain airlines might require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and some may require you to have a doctor's note on file prior to being able to allow you to fly with your motorized chair. Certain airlines may also require you to disassemble the battery-powered part of your chair and put it in a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours prior to your departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, such as the owner's manual as well as any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid to the airport. This will make it easier for the check-in process and help avoid confusion about your here airline's wheelchair policies.
When you arrive at the counter for tickets to airline or gate, make sure to communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Explain your wheelchair and any accessories you might require like 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 using a specialized cart. If you're going to transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, make sure to book a direct flight, which will reduce the number of times your equipment will be moved between locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo compartment along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair the same way they would with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, you must take a picture of it before you leave the airport and immediately inform the airline.