Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many things you should consider when traveling with an electric chair. Airport and airline staff will ask you a lot of questions regarding your chair's dimensions and battery type as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have this information ready prior to your trip to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that are compliant with the requirements for air travel.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that 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. In addition, they will be able to maneuver on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or roads that are muddy. They may also have a patent-pending power drive system that allows them to navigate in tight spaces, or elevators.
Airlines will assist you with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the gate for boarding. However, it is essential to contact them prior to time to make sure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm that they are able to meet those requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to the time of departure, which is especially important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. This space is limited and operates on a first-come, first-serve basis. The federal regulations also demand that all extra batteries be checked by the scooter or wheelchair. They must be removed unless they are specifically designed 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 prior to your flight so that they can ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful details about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are made for comfortable and safe travel. They can be folded and comply with 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 representatives can assist you in preparing your itinerary and give you the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair for safety purposes and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals aren't exposed, and that it is stored upright.
Depending on the airline you use, you may need to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, your address, your phone number, and your wheelchair model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment in case it is lost or mishandled during your trip. You may also consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will help you remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to the departure time you have scheduled to ensure proper stowage of your equipment is completed. Arriving earlier than this is even better if possible, especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This lets you check-in early and gives the airline representative ample time to help you stow your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair before you travel. This can be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will help you in obtaining compensation for damages from the airline. Consider bringing along cushions to make your flight as comfortable as you can. Seat cushions are especially important when you travel for more than an hour. They reduce pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.
Check-In
The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been accepted by the airline can be daunting. But, with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, flying with your power chair is attainable.
Before you book your flight, talk to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They will be able to guide you in the right direction, no matter website if you prefer to make your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour before your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it is properly and properly stored for your journey.
Depending on your power chair It website may be necessary for you to disassemble it prior to transportation. In this instance it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the go to help airline employees who handle your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable accessories before you leave for the airport and to ensure all the controls are functioning properly.
When you arrive at an airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and stowed. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra fees to store assistive devices, like power chairs. This is an excellent benefit for those with disabilities since it allows them to avoid unnecessary expenses.
A representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which can fit down the aircraft aisle when the plane lands. Then, you can disembark, and your wheelchair is returned to you at the nearest possible location to the door of the here aircraft, either at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
A trip with an electric wheelchair may seem daunting, but with the right planning and adherence to guidelines, it is possible to experience the joy of exploring new places with ease. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if not comfortable moving around in your chair, you'll not be able to fully more info take advantage of the freedom that travel offers.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for passengers who suffer from mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, but it is important to follow your airline's policies for transporting and stowing your chair on board the airplane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your travels to inquire about their policies and get any questions answered.
Most airlines will allow passengers to bring an electric wheelchair on your flight, so provided it's prepared for travel. Some airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a physician's letter before they will allow you to fly with your power wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require you to remove the battery-powered part of your chair and put it in a case that is protected.
Get to the airport at least website two hours before your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your flight. Bring any documentation you might require to the airport, such as your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in process and can prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
Upon arriving at the ticket counter or gate, make sure to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Explain the kind of wheelchair you own and any necessary accessories, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair for stowage or whether it will be transported to the plane using an appropriate cart. If you're going to transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, try to take a direct flight which will reduce the amount of times your equipment will be transferred between locations.
Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo compartment along with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair, like they do with your luggage. Take a photo of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.