Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several things to consider when traveling with powered chairs. The staff at the airport and the airline will inquire about the dimensions of your chair, battery type, and how to handle it.
Make sure you have all of this information at hand before you travel to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and safely stowed on airplanes. The FAA will allow them to be used for air travel, and they can be stowed under the plane as checked baggage. Additionally they'll be able to move on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or roads that are muddy. They may also have an exclusive power drive system that allows them to move in tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the boarding gates. However, it is essential to contact them prior to time to ensure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm that they are able to meet those needs. Some airlines require you to be at least an hour before your departure time which is essential in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is limited and operates on the basis of first-come-first-serve. Federal regulations also require that all batteries added to the system be checked with the wheelchair or scooter. They must be shut off unless they are designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also request that you check-in an hour prior to your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent information regarding your mobility or power chair. scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are made for safe and convenient travel. These power chairs can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines regarding battery size handling, stowage, and handling. If you plan to fly with your airline of choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist you in preparing your itinerary and give you the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide you with assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety. You can then put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is safely stowed in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you use depending on your airline, you might be required to label your wheelchair with the following information: your name, address, phone number, and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment if it should become lost or damaged during your travels. You might also consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will help you remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airline and airport personnel.
You should arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure the proper storage of your equipment is done. If you are able, arrive at least two hours earlier than the here time you plan to depart. This is especially crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This lets you check in earlier and gives ample time for the representative of the airline to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you leave and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged on the flight. This will give you possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for any damages. You should also consider bringing cushions for your seats so that your journey is as relaxing as possible for you. Cushions for seats are essential for flights that last more than an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be intimidating. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is feasible with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, speak to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. more info They'll be able to help you navigate in the right direction, no matter if 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 inspect your equipment, and ensure that it is properly stored to be ready for your trip.
Based on the model of power chair you own It could be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. If this is the case, it is helpful to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly available to assist airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any detachable items prior to you leave for the airport and also to ensure that all the controls are in working order.
When you arrive at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed 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 huge benefit for those with disabilities since it helps them save money.
An airline employee can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that will fit on the aircraft aisle when the plane arrives. After disembarking, your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric wheelchair can seem daunting, but with careful planning and adhering to guidelines, you can be able to experience the joy of exploring new places easily. The most important thing to remember is that if not comfortable moving around in your chair, you'll never enjoy the freedom that traveling affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for those with mobility issues. If you're using a wheelchair or a scooter can make your experience more enjoyable. However, it is essential to follow the airline's policies regarding taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline in advance to find out their policy on power chairs, and to ask any questions.
Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair on your flight, as that you prepare it properly to travel. Some airlines might require you to discharge the batteries before boarding, and some will require you to have a medical note on file before they will let you fly with your power chair. Certain airlines may also require that you remove the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair, and place it in an enclosure that is protected.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair more info before departure. It's important to bring any documentation, like the owner's manual as well as any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and can help avoid confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.
When you reach the ticket counter of your airline or gate, make sure to be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Explain the type of wheelchair you have and any necessary accessories like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether they will be placing your wheelchair in a specific cart or examining it for storage. If you're transferring to the plane using your electric wheelchair, you should try to take a direct flight which will reduce the number of times your equipment will be transferred between different locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane it will be stored in the cargo compartment as checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of your scooter or wheelchair, the same way they would with your luggage. Take a photograph of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.