Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few things you should consider when traveling with powered chairs. The staff at the airport and at the airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to handle it.
Make sure you have all of these details in hand prior to you travel to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that comply with air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and stowed safely on planes. They will typically have an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stored under the plane as checked luggage. Furthermore they'll be able to navigate on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips brick or muddy roads. They could also be equipped with an exclusive power drive system that enables them to move in tight spaces or lifts.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the gates for boarding. It is however important to contact them ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of your needs and to confirm they can meet those requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to your departure time This is particularly important during busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes for the stowage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited, and it's first come, first served. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected in conjunction with the scooter or wheelchair, since federal regulations require that they be disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a safe design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when bringing electric wheelchairs or scooters aboard their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour before your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions and other helpful information about your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are made for secure and comfortable travel. They can be folded and comply with airline guidelines regarding battery size handling, stowage, and handling. If you are planning to travel with your airline of choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. 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 assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain 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 done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is securely tucked away in a straight position.
Depending on the airline you use, you may need to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, address, your telephone number, and the wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it gets lost or is mishandled on your trip. You may also consider purchasing aftermarket slings like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will allow you to remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airport and airline personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better particularly during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This lets you check-in early and gives the airline representative plenty of time to help you stow 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 pursuing compensation for damages from the airline. You should consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to make your flight as comfortable as you possibly can. Cushions for seats are essential for flights lasting over an hour. They reduce pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline may be a daunting task. However, with proper preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, traveling with a power chair is feasible.
Contact an airline representative before making your reservation to learn more about the policies and small electric wheel chair procedures. They can guide you on the best method to check-in your chair regardless of whether it's at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour prior to your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure that it is properly stored to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the type of chair you own, it may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it is important to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions on hand to help the airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. It more info is also a good idea to remove any accessories that can be removed prior to when you go to the airport, and to make sure all the controls are working properly.
When you arrive at the airport the electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold check here and electric wheelchair wheels then stowed. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you an additional cost to store assistive devices, such as electric wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for those with disabilities since they can save money.
Once the plane is in the air, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to fit down the aircraft aisle. After disembarking, your wheelchair will be returned to you at the nearest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft or at the jetbridge or the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with right planning and following the rules, you can enjoy exploring new places. 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
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be extremely stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. If you have mobility scooters or wheelchairs could make your experience more enjoyable. However, it is essential to follow the airline's guidelines regarding bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to find out their policy on power chairs, and to ask any questions.
Most airlines will allow you to take an electric wheelchair on your flight as provided it's prepared for travel. Some airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will need a doctor's letter prior to allowing you to fly with a power wheelchair. Some airlines may also demand that you take down the battery-powered part of your chair and place it into a case that is safe.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours before the time of departure to ensure that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your departure. It's important to bring any documentation, including your owner manual and any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will make it easier for the process lightweight electric wheelchair uk of checking in and will make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the counter for tickets or gate, make sure to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Provide the kind of wheelchair you own and any accessories you require like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be storing your wheelchair in a separate cart or examining it for storage. If you're taking a transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, you should try to make a direct flight which will cut down on the number of times your equipment will be transferred between different locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment along with your checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you extra to store your scooter or wheelchair just as they would with your luggage. Take a photograph of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.