A Comprehensive Guide To Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair From Beginning To End
A Comprehensive Guide To Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair From Beginning To End
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few things to consider when traveling with powered chairs. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you numerous questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type as well as how it should be handled.
Be sure to have this information at hand before you travel to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA will approve them for air travel, and they can be stowed 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 can also be equipped with a unique drive system which allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the gates for boarding. However, it is important to contact them prior to time to ensure that they are aware of your requirements and confirm that they can meet those requirements. Some airlines require you to arrive one hour prior to your scheduled departure time, which is important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes that allows for the stowage and storage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. This space is limited and on an initial-come first-serve basis. The federal regulations also require that all batteries added to the system be checked by the scooter or wheelchair. They must be shut off unless they are specifically designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require to check-in one hour prior to your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions and other helpful details about your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to provide the most secure and comfortable way to travel. They can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and stowage. If you plan to travel with the airline of your 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 travel itinerary and provide you with the latest information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety and then place it into a carryon bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed and that it is safely stored upright.
Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, address, your number, and the wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment in case it gets lost or mishandled during your trip. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will assist you in staying in your chair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure the proper storage of your equipment is completed. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better if possible particularly during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This allows you to check in earlier and gives plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Before you travel, take a picture of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage in obtaining compensation for damages from the airline. It is also advisable to bring a seat cushion with you to ensure that your flight is as relaxing as possible for you. Seat cushions are especially important for flights that last more than an hour. They reduce the pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline can be intimidating. Air travel with a power chair is possible with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Speak to an airline representative before making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best way to check-in your chair regardless of whether it's at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it is recommended that you arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure it is safely stowed for your journey.
Depending on the kind of power chair you own, it may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it's important to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions on hand to help the airline employees handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any accessories that can be removed prior to when you go to the airport and also to ensure that all the controls are working properly.
When you arrive at the airport the electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra fees for the stowing of assistive devices such as electric chairs. This is a great benefit for those with disabilities since it allows them to save money.
An airline employee will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that will fit on the aisle of the aircraft here once the plane arrives. You will then be able to get off the plane and your power wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as you can or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with the right planning and following the rules you can have fun exploring new destinations. It is essential to keep in mind 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 packed, and this can be stressful for those with mobility problems. If you have a wheelchair or a scooter could make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it's essential to follow the airline's policies regarding bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact the airline prior to your departure to ask about their policy and to get any questions answered.
Most airlines will allow you to take an electric wheelchair on your flight as you've prepared it for travel. Some airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a doctor's letter before they will allow you to fly with a electric wheelchair. Some airlines will also require you to take apart the battery-powered component of your wheelchair and place it in a case that is protected.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, such as your owner manual and any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up check-in process and help avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the airline ticket counter or gate, be sure to be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Explain the kind of wheelchair you're using and any necessary accessories, such as 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 an adapted cart. If you're taking a transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, you should try to make a direct flight which will minimize the number of times your equipment will be moved between locations.
Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment along with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair, like they do with your luggage. Take a photo of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.