Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are a few aspects to be considered. Airport and airline staff will ask you numerous questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Be sure to have all of this information at hand before you leave for the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that are compliant with the requirements for air travel.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines can be safely transported and stowed on planes. They will typically have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel. They can be tucked under the plane as checked baggage. They can also navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration stripes, brick or muddy road. They may also have a patent-pending power drive system that permits 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 gates for boarding. It is essential to contact the airline prior to your departure to make sure they are aware of any specific needs and confirm that they will be able to accommodate the requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of the time of departure This is particularly 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. The space is not large enough and is first come, first serve. They also require that any extra batteries be checked as part of the wheelchair or scooter, since federal regulations require that they are disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with an effective design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair on their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour before your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful information regarding your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to provide the most secure and comfortable method of travel. These chairs are designed to fold up and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling, and stowage. If you plan to travel with the airline of your choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can assist you in preparing your itinerary and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety and then place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed and that it is safely placed 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 the wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event that it is stolen or mishandled during your journey. You might also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which aid you in staying in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
You should always arrive at at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that proper stowage of your equipment is completed. If you website arrive earlier than this, it is even better if possible, especially during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and gives the airline representative plenty of time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you leave to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you the possibility of pursuing check here compensation from the airline for any damages. It is also advisable to bring a seat cushion with you so that your journey is as relaxing as possible for you. Cushions for seats are essential when you travel for more than an hour. They reduce pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline may be intimidating. Air travel with a power chair is achievable with proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, speak to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best way to check in your chair whether at the ticket counter or the gate. In any case, it is advised to arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to check your equipment and make sure that it will be safely towed for your trip.
Depending on your power chair It may be necessary for you to disassemble it before transport. In this situation it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the table to aid airline employees who handle your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. Also, take off any removable items and check that all controls work before leaving for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the plane. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra for stowing assistive devices like power chairs. This is a huge benefit for passengers who have disabilities, as they can avoid costly expenses.
An airline employee can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which will fit on the aircraft aisle when the plane arrives. After disembarking, your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the shortest possible location to the door of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
It might be difficult to travel in an electric chair, but with the right planning and following guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new places. It is essential to keep in mind that read more if you do not feel comfortable in your chair, you won't be able to travel with the freedom it affords.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for passengers who have mobility problems. A wheelchair or a scooter light weight electric wheelchair can make the experience less stress-inducing for you, but it is important to follow your airline's policies for the transportation and storage of your chair on the airplane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact the airline before your trip to ask about their policy and ask any questions.
Most airlines allow passengers to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight, so you've prepared it for travel. Certain airlines might require you to charge the batteries prior to boarding and some may require you to have a doctor's recommendation on file prior to being able to allow you to fly with your motorized chair. Some airlines may also require you to remove the battery-powered component of your chair and then place it in a protective case.
When you arrive at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documents you require to the airport, including your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will help speed up the check-in process and can make sure that there is no confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.
When you arrive at the get more info airline's ticket counter or gate, make sure to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Discuss your wheelchair and any other accessories you might require, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or the possibility of transferring it to the plane using an appropriate cart. If you're transferring to the plane using your electric wheelchair, try to take a direct flight which will cut down on the amount of times your equipment will be moved between different 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 airlines from charging extra to store your wheelchair or scooter, like they do with your luggage. Take a photo of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.