Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several aspects to take into consideration when traveling with a powered chair. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you numerous questions regarding the dimensions of your chair, battery type and how to handle it.
Make sure you have these details in hand prior to you head to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that meet air travel regulations.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are able to be safely transported and stored on planes. They usually have an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be tucked under the plane as checked baggage. They will also be able move on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes, brick or muddy road. They could also be equipped with a patent-pending power drive system that permits them to navigate in tight spaces, or lifts.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the boarding gates. It is however important to contact them ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of your needs and confirm that they can meet your needs. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour before your departure time, which is especially important during busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is limited and operated on the basis of first-come-first-serve. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected as part of the wheelchair or scooter, since federal regulations require that they are disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with an effective design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when taking electric wheelchairs or scooters aboard their flights. They also ask to check-in one hour prior to your flight to ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful details about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to offer an efficient and safe method of travel. They can be folded and comply with airline guidelines regarding battery size handling, stowage, and handling. If you are planning to travel with the airline of your choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can assist you in preparing your itinerary and give you the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require that you 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 securely tucked away in a straight position.
Depending on the airline you fly with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, address, your phone number, and your wheelchair model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment in case it should become lost or damaged during your trip. You may want to buy aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will assist you in staying in your seat during transfers with airport personnel and airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in electric mobility chairs for adults good stowage. If you are able, arrive earlier than two hours prior to your scheduled departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and allows the airline representative ample time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you leave and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged on the flight. This will give you the possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for damages. You should consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to make your flight as comfortable as you can. Seat cushions are especially important for flights that last more than an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane is a daunting prospect. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is achievable with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Contact an airline representative prior to making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best way to check into your seat regardless of whether it's at the counter for tickets or the gate. In either case, it's recommended to arrive at least one hour before your flight. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure it is safely stored to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the kind of chair you own It may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. If electric automatic wheelchair this is the case, it is beneficial to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly available to assist airline personnel handling your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair, like the owner's manual or warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable accessories before you go to the airport and to ensure all controls are working properly.
Once you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and then stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra for stowing assistive devices such as electric chairs. This is an excellent benefit for people with disabilities since it allows them to 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 can fit into the aisle of the aircraft. You will then be able to disembark, and your powered wheelchair will more info be returned to you close to the aircraft door as you can, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
A trip with an electric wheelchair can seem daunting, but with the right planning and adhering to the guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new destinations with ease. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you're uncomfortable in your chair, you'll not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that travel offers.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for people with mobility issues. If you have an electric or wheelchair, it can make your trip more enjoyable. However, it is essential to follow the airline's guidelines regarding taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to inquire about their policy on power chairs, and to ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your trip as you've prepared it for travel. Certain airlines may require you to recharge the batteries prior to boarding and some will need to have a doctor's recommendation on file prior to being able to allow you to fly with your power chair. Some airlines may also require website that you remove the battery-powered part of your chair, and place it in an enclosure that is protected.
When you arrive at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours prior to your departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. Bring any documentation you might require to the airport, including your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will help speed up the check-in process and can prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the ticket counter of your airline or gate, make sure to be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any other accessories you may require like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or the possibility of transferring it to the aircraft using a specialized cart. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book a direct flight to minimize the number times your equipment is moved between places.
Once your wheelchair is in the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment, just like checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair, just as they would with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, be check here sure to take a photograph prior to leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.