Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are many things to take into consideration. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you a lot of questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information ready before you go to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with the air travel regulations.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and stowed securely on planes. The FAA can approve them for air travel, and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to move on rough surfaces like deceleration stripes, gravel, roads that are muddy or brick. They can also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending that allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter to the gate for boarding. However, it is essential to contact them ahead of time to ensure they are aware of your needs and to confirm that they are able to meet your needs. Certain airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to your scheduled departure which is crucial during busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is limited, and it's first come, first serve. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected in conjunction with the scooter or wheelchair as federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless the chair is equipped with a secure design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when taking an electric wheelchair or scooter on their flights. They also require that you check in 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 representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions as well as other useful details about your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to offer the most secure and comfortable way to travel. These power chairs are made to fold and meet airline guidelines regarding 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 experts can help you plan your itinerary and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety purposes and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals aren't exposed, and it is placed upright.
Depending on the airline you fly with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, address, your number, and your wheelchair model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment in case it is lost or damaged during your trip. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will help you remain in your seat during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better if possible particularly during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This lets you check in early and provides ample time for the airline representative to assist you with stowing your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair prior to traveling. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for any damages from the airline. You should also consider bringing cushions for your power chairs seats, so that the flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Seat cushions are particularly 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 airplane with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline may be intimidating. But, with the right preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, air travel with your power chair is attainable.
Contact an airline representative before making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best method to check in your chair, whether it is at the ticket counter or the gate. In any case, it is recommended to arrive at least one hour before your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure that it is properly and properly stored to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the type of power chair you own It could be required to disassemble it prior to transport. In this situation, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly click here and disassembly in hand to assist the airline personnel who will handle your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair, including the owner's manual as well as warranty information. It is also recommended to remove any accessories that are removable and check that all controls work before leaving for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the airplane. The airlines are not allowed to charging you a cost to store assistive devices like power wheelchairs. This is a wonderful benefit for passengers with disabilities, because it can help them avoid costly expenses.
An airline employee can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit down the aisle of the aircraft once the cheap electric wheelchairs plane lands. You will then be able to get electric wheelchair uk off the plane and your wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as possible or 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 guidelines, you can be able to experience the joy of exploring new locations easily. The most important thing to remember is that if you're uncomfortable in your chair, you will never enjoy the freedom that travel offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stress-inducing for you, but it's important to adhere to the policies of your airline regarding bringing and stowing your chair on the airplane. Contact the airline in advance 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 properly to travel. Certain airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will require a doctor's letter to allow you to fly with a power wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery powered portion of your wheelchair, and place it in a protective case.
Get to the airport at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure 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 of your mobility aid to the airport. This will make it easier for the process of checking in and will make sure that there is no confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.
When you arrive at the ticket counter of your airline or at the gate, be sure you communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Provide a description electric scooter wheelchair of your wheelchair and any accessories you may require, such as seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair for stowage or whether it will be transported to the aircraft using an appropriate cart. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book an direct flight to cut down on the number of times your device is moved between different locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo area along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you extra to store your wheelchair or scooter, just as they would with your luggage. Take a photo of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.