Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several aspects to take into consideration when traveling with powered chairs. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you a lot of questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Be sure to have all of this information at hand before you head to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that are compliant with the regulations for air travel.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines can be safely transported and stored on planes. They will typically have an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be tucked under the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore they'll be able to maneuver on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or muddy roads. They may also be equipped with a unique drive system that allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the gates for boarding. It is essential to call the airline ahead of time to ensure they are aware of any special needs and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate them. Certain airlines require you to arrive at least an hour prior to your scheduled departure which is crucial in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes that allows for the stowage of a wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is limited and on an initial-come first-serve basis. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair because federal regulations require they be disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a secure design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before you bring an electric wheelchair or scooter aboard their flights. They also ask to check-in one hour prior to your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions as well as other useful information regarding your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed for safe and convenient travel. These power chairs are made to fold and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These experts can assist you in planning your travel plans and provide you with the most up-to-date information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety purposes and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that the battery is securely tucked away in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you fly with depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, your address, your phone number, and your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it gets lost or is damaged during your travels. You may also think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that help you remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
You should always arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that the proper storage of your equipment is completed. If you can you can arrive at least two hours earlier than the time you plan to depart. This is particularly crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This lets you check in early and provides ample time for the representative of the airline to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you leave, take a picture of your wheelchair to 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. You should consider bringing cushions to make the flight as comfortable as possible. Seat cushions are small electric wheelchair especially important when you travel for more than an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that is approved electric wheelchair heavy duty by the airline may be daunting. Traveling with a power chair is feasible with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best way to check-in your chair whether at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour prior to your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure it is safely and properly stored for your journey.
Depending on the type of power chair you have, it may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. In this situation it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the table to aid airline personnel handling your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair, including the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any detachable items prior to you travel to the airport and to ensure all of the controls are functioning properly.
Once you arrive at an airport your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and then stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging you an additional here cost to store cheap electric wheelchairs assistive devices, like power wheelchairs. This is a great benefit for passengers who have disabilities, as it allows them to avoid costly expenses.
A representative from the airline can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can be able to fit into the aircraft aisle when the plane arrives. After disembarking, your wheelchair is returned to you at the nearest possible location to the click here aircraft door or at the jetbridge or at the gate.
Traveling with an electric chair can be daunting, but with careful planning and adhering to the guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new places with ease. It is important to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair, you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for passengers with mobility problems. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stressful for you, however it's important to adhere to 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.
Most airlines allow you to bring an electric wheelchair on your flight as you've prepared it for travel. Certain airlines may require you to recharge the batteries prior to boarding and some will need to have a doctor's recommendation on file prior to being able to allow you to fly with your power chair. Certain airlines may also require that you take down the battery-powered part of your chair, and place it into a protective case.
When you arrive at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours before your scheduled departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. It's important to bring any documentation, like your owner's manual or assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will make it easier for the check-in process and help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
On arrival at the counter for tickets or gate, make sure to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any other accessories you may require for example, seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be keeping your wheelchair in a separate cart or examining it for stowage. If you're transferring to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to make a direct flight which will cut down on the amount of times your equipment is moved between different locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane it will be stored in the cargo compartment along with your checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra fees for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. If your equipment is damaged, you must take a picture of it before leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.