Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several things you should consider when traveling with a powered chair. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you numerous questions regarding your chair's dimensions, battery type and how to handle it.
Be sure to have all of this information at hand before you travel to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and safely stowed on planes. The FAA can approve them for travel on planes and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. They will also be able maneuver on rough surfaces, such as deceleration stripes, gravel, brick or muddy road. They may also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending that permits them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the boarding gate. However, it is essential to contact them prior to time to make sure they are aware of your requirements and confirm that they can meet your needs. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of your departure time which is crucial in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. This space is limited and on an initial-come first-serve basis. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair as federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless it is equipped with an effective design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also request to check-in at least an hour before your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent details about your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed for comfortable and safe travel. These electric chairs can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines regarding battery size and handling, as well as stowage. If you are planning to travel with the airline of your preference, you should contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These experts can assist you in planning your travel itinerary and provide you with the latest information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety and then place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed and that it is safely stored upright.
Depending on your airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following information: your name, address, phone number, and model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment in case it is lost or damaged during your travels. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will assist you in staying in your seat during transfers with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
You should always arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure the proper stowage of your equipment is accomplished. If you are able you can arrive at least two hours earlier than your departure time. This is especially crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This lets you check in early and provides plenty of time for the airline representative 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 during your flight. This will give you possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for damages. Consider bringing along cushions to make the trip as comfortable as you possibly can. The use of a cushion for your seat is especially important for flights that will last more than an hour, since it reduces pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, boarding a plane can be an overwhelming experience. However, with proper preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, traveling with a power chair is attainable.
Speak to an airline representative prior to making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best method to check in your chair, whether it is at the ticket counter or the gate. In either case, it's recommended that you arrive at least one hour before your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to examine your equipment and make sure that it will be safely towed for your trip.
Depending on the type of click here power chair you have It could be necessary to disassemble it for transport. In this case it is helpful to have get more info instructions for assembly and disassembly the go to help airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair. This includes website 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 leave for the airport, and to make sure all of the controls are working properly.
Once you arrive at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the airplane. Airlines are not allowed to charge you extra for the stowing of assistive devices such as power chairs. This is a great benefit for passengers with disabilities since it allows them to avoid costly expenses.
An airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can be able to fit into the aircraft aisle when the plane lands. You will then be able to get off the plane and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as you can, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with the proper planning and following the guidelines, you can enjoy exploring new locations. It is essential to keep in mind that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair, you won't be able to travel with the freedom it offers.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for those with mobility problems. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, however it's essential to follow your airline's policies for bringing and stowing your chair on the plane. Contact the airline in advance to find out their policy on power chairs and to ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, as that you prepare it to travel. Certain airlines might require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and some may require you to have a doctor's recommendation on file before they will allow you to fly using your electric chair. Some airlines may also demand that you disassemble the battery-powered part of your chair and place it in a protective case.
Get to the airport at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, including the owner's manual as well as any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid to the airport. This will help speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
When you arrive at the airline ticket counter or gate, make sure to communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Provide a description of your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you might require like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or the possibility of transferring it to the aircraft using a specialized cart. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book a direct flight to minimize the number of times your device is moved between places.
When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment along with electric wheelchair 25 stone your checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra fees for storing a wheelchair get more info or scooter. Take a picture of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.