Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several aspects to take into consideration when traveling with a powered chair. Airport and airline staff will ask you numerous questions about your chair's dimensions, battery type and how it should be handled.
Make sure you have these details in hand prior to you head to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that meet the requirements for air travel.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and stowed securely on airplanes. The FAA will allow them to be used for travel on planes, and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to maneuver on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration stripes, brick or muddy road. They may also be equipped with a unique drive system which allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the boarding gate. However, it is important to contact them prior to 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 important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes for the stowage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited and operated on a first-come, first-serve basis. The federal regulations also demand that all batteries added to the system be checked by the scooter or wheelchair. They must be shut off unless they are designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to taking an electric wheelchair or scooter aboard their flights. They also request that you check-in an hour prior to your flight so that they can 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
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are made for secure and comfortable travel. These power chairs are made to fold, and they conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and stowage. If you plan to fly with your airline of choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These experts can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the latest information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety purposes and place it into a carryon bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is secured in a upright position.
Depending on the airline you use depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, address, your number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it is stolen or mishandled during your journey. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will allow you to remain in your chair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
You should always arrive at at least two hours prior to the departure time you have scheduled to ensure that the proper storage of your equipment is completed. Arriving earlier than this is even better if possible, especially during busy holiday times or during 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.
Take a picture of your wheelchair prior to travel. This can be used as proof in the event check here that your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for damages from the airline. It is also advisable to bring cushions for your seats to ensure that your flight is as relaxing as possible for you. Cushions for seats are essential for flights that last more than an hour. They reduce the pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, boarding a plane can be an intimidating experience. However, with proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, air travel using your electric chair is feasible.
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 regardless of whether it's at the ticket counter or the gate. In either case, arriving one hour prior to your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure it is safely and properly stored for your trip.
Depending on your power chair It could be necessary for you to disassemble the chair prior to transportation. In this situation it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the table to aid airline personnel handling your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair, such as the owner's manual or warranty information. You should also take off any removable items and make sure that all controls are functioning before you read more depart for the airport.
Once you are at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the airplane. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra fees for the stowing of assistive devices like power chairs. This is an excellent benefit for passengers with disabilities, as it helps them avoid unnecessary expenses.
A representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that will fit on the aisle of the aircraft once the plane lands. After disembarking, your wheelchair will be returned to you at the nearest possible location to the door of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or the gate.
It might be difficult to travel in an electric chair, but with the right planning and following the rules you will be able to enjoy exploring new places. The most important thing to remember is that if uncomfortable in read more your chair, you will never take advantage of the freedom that travel affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for passengers who have mobility issues. If you're using a wheelchair or a scooter could make your trip more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow the airline's guidelines for the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. Contact the airline ahead of time to learn about their policies regarding power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, as that you prepare it correctly to travel. Some airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a physician's letter prior to allowing you to fly with a power wheelchair. Some airlines will also require you to remove the battery-powered component of your here chair and put it in a protective case.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your flight. Bring any documentation you may require to the airport, such as your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
On arrival at the ticket counter or at the gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Be sure to describe the kind of wheelchair you own and any necessary accessories like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be keeping your wheelchair in a specific cart or checking it for storage. If you're taking here a transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, make sure to book a direct flight, which will minimize the number of times that your equipment will be transferred between various locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane it will be stored in the cargo compartment, just like checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you extra to store your scooter or wheelchair like they do with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, make sure you take a picture of it before you leave the airport and immediately notify the airline.