Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many aspects to take into consideration 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 all of this information at hand before you leave for the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that meet the regulations for air travel.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and stowed securely on planes. They usually have a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stored under the plane as checked luggage. They'll also be able to maneuver on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes, bricks or muddy roads. They may also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending that permits them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the gates for boarding. It is essential to call the airline ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of any specific needs and confirm that they can meet these requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour before your scheduled departure, which is especially important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes that allows for the stowage of a mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited and is first come, first serve. The federal regulations also demand that any additional batteries be inspected by a wheelchair or scooter. They must be removed unless they are designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to taking an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also require that you check in an hour before your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get assembly/disassembly information and other helpful details about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed for secure and comfortable travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold, and they comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and storage. If you are planning to travel with the airline of your choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can assist you in planning your travel itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide you with assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety. You can then put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that 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 details including your name address, address, phone number and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it is lost or mishandled on your trip. You might also consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which help you remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. If you are able you can arrive earlier than two hours before your scheduled departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This get more info lets you check in early and provides ample time for the airline representative to assist you with stowing your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair prior to traveling. This serves as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for any damages from the airline. You should also think about bringing an extra cushion for your seat to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as it can be for you. Seat cushions are especially important for flights that last more than an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been accepted by the airline can be a daunting task. However, with proper preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, air travel with your power website chair is possible.
Talk to an airline representative before making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They will be able to help you navigate in the right direction, whether you prefer to check-in your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour before your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it is properly stowed website for your trip.
Based on the power chair you have It could be necessary to disassemble it before transportation. In this case it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly hand to assist the airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance website documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. Also, remove any accessories that are removable and check that all controls are functioning before you depart for the airport.
When you arrive at an airport the electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging you a cost to store assistive devices like electric wheelchairs. This is a wonderful benefit for people with disabilities, because it can help them save money.
A representative from the airline can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit down the aisle of the aircraft when the plane lands. Then, you will be able to board the plane, and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as you can in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric wheelchair can seem daunting, but with careful planning and adhering to guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the thrill of exploring new places easily. The most important thing electric wheelchair price to keep in mind is that if not comfortable in your chair, you'll never enjoy the freedom that traveling affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be extremely stressful for people who have mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stress-inducing for you, but it's important to adhere to the guidelines of your airline for the transportation and storage of your chair on board the airplane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact the airline before your trip to ask about their policy and ask any questions.
Most airlines allow you to take a motorized wheelchair with you on your trip as long as it's properly prepared for travel. Some airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will need a doctor's letter to allow you to travel with your power wheelchair. Some airlines may also require you to disassemble the battery-powered component of your chair and then place it in a protective case.
When you arrive at the airport, make sure you arrive at least two hours prior to your departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, such as your owner manual and any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and avoid confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
If you are at the airline ticket counter or gate, be sure to explain your mobility needs clearly. Discuss your wheelchair and any other accessories you may require, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether they will be placing your wheelchair in a special cart or checking it for stowage. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book an express flight to reduce the number of times your device is moved between locations.
Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo area along with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra to store your wheelchair or scooter, like they do with your luggage. Take a photo of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.