Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several things you should consider when traveling with powered chairs. The staff at the airport and at the airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to use it.
Be sure to have this information at hand before you leave for the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance 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 will typically have a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stored under the plane as checked luggage. They'll also be able to move on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration stripes, roads that are muddy or brick. They could also have a patented power drive system that enables them to navigate in tight spaces, or lifts.
Airlines will provide assistance for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the boarding gate. It is crucial to contact the airline in advance to ensure that they are aware of any special needs and confirm that they are able to meet these requirements. Some airlines require you to be at least one hour prior to your departure time This is crucial during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes for the stowage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is limited and operated on an initial-come first-serve basis. The federal regulations also demand that all extra batteries be inspected by a scooter or wheelchair. They must be shut off unless they are designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when you bring electric wheelchairs or scooters on their flights. They also request that you check in an hour before your flight, to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions and other helpful information regarding your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to offer a safe and convenient way to travel. These electric chairs can be folded and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can assist you in planning your travel plans and provide you with the latest information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety and then place it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is secured in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following information: your name, address, phone number, and model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment if it gets lost or damaged during your trip. You might also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that allow you to remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. If you are able be there earlier than two hours prior to your departure time. This is particularly crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This lets you check-in early and allows the representative of the airline plenty of time to help you stow your chair.
Before you leave to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during your flight. This will give you leverage to pursue compensation from the airline in case of damages. You should consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to make your flight as comfortable as you possibly can. Seat cushions are especially important when you travel for more than an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that has been accepted by the airline can be a daunting task. However, with the proper preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, flying with your power chair is possible.
Speak to an airline representative before making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the right direction, regardless of whether you prefer to get your seat at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour before your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure it is safely and properly stored to be ready for your trip.
Based on the power chair you have It could be necessary to disassemble it before transportation. If this is the case, it's beneficial to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly available to assist airline employees handling your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair, like the owner's manual or warranty information. Also, take off any removable items and ensure that all controls work before you leave for the airport.
When you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and then stowed. Airlines are not allowed to charge you extra for stowing assistive devices like power chairs. This is a great feature for people with disabilities, because it can help them save money.
A representative from the airline will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which will fit on the aircraft aisle when the plane arrives. After disembarking, your wheelchair will be returned to you at the closest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft or at the jetbridge or the gate.
Traveling with an electric wheelchair may seem intimidating, but with proper planning and adherence to guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the thrill of exploring new destinations easily. It is crucial to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for passengers who have mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, but it's important to adhere to your airline's policies for the transportation and storage of your chair on board the plane. Contact the airline prior to power chairs for outdoors departure to inquire about their policy regarding power chairs and to ask any questions.
Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair for your flight, so that you prepare it correctly for travel. Some airlines might require you to recharge the batteries prior to boarding and some will require you to have a doctor's note in order to allow you to fly using your electric chair. Certain airlines may also require you to disassemble the battery-powered component of your chair and then place it in a case that is protected.
Get to the airport at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure so that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to flight. Bring any documentation you may need to the airport, such as your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at bariatric electric wheelchair the airline's ticket counter or gate, make sure to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any website accessories you may require, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether they will be keeping your wheelchair in click here a separate cart or examining it for storage. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book an direct flight to cut down on the amount of times your equipment is moved between locations.
Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for storing a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment arrives damaged, be sure to take a picture of check here it before you leave the airport and immediately inform the airline.