Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few things you should consider when traveling with an electric chair. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you numerous questions about your chair's dimensions, battery type and how to handle it.
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 comply with the requirements for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stowed on planes. They will typically have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. They can also maneuver on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes roads that are muddy or brick. They may also have an exclusive power drive system that permits them to navigate in tight spaces, or lifts.
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 contact the airline in advance to make sure they are aware of any specific needs and to confirm that they can meet them. Certain airlines require you to 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 passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is not large enough, and it's first come first served. The federal regulations also demand that all extra batteries be checked with the scooter or wheelchair. They must be shut off unless they are designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour prior to your flight so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful information about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to provide an efficient and safe way to travel. These chairs are designed to fold, and they conform to airline standards 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. They can assist you in preparing your itinerary and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide you with instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines require you to 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 the battery is secured in a straight position.
Depending on the airline you fly with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, your address, your phone number, and the wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it is stolen or damaged during your travels. You may also consider purchasing aftermarket slings like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will help you remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airline and airport personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that the proper stowage of your equipment is accomplished. Arriving earlier than this is even better especially during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This lets you check-in early and allows the representative of the airline plenty of time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair before you travel. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged website on the flight. This will give you ability to seek compensation from the airline for any damages. You should also consider bringing a seat cushion with you, so that the flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights lasting over an hour. They reduce the pressure on your skin making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline can be intimidating. However, with proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, traveling using your electric chair is possible.
Before booking your flight, speak to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They'll be able to help you navigate in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to get your chair 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 examine your equipment and ensure it is safely stored for your trip.
Based on the power chair you have It could be necessary for you to disassemble the chair prior to it is transported. In this case it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the go to help airline personnel who will handle your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair, including the owner's manual or warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable items prior to you travel to the airport and also to ensure that all the controls are working properly.
When you arrive at the airport the electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging an additional fee to stow assistive devices, such as electric wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for people with disabilities since it allows them to avoid costly expenses.
An airline employee will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which will fit on the aisle of the aircraft once the plane arrives. Then, you can disembark, and your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible location to the door of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with the right planning and following guidelines, you can enjoy exploring new destinations. It is crucial to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair, you won't be able to travel with the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be very stressful for people with mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stress-inducing for you, but it is important to follow the guidelines of your airline for bringing and stowing your chair on the airplane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact the airline before your trip to ask about their policy and ask any questions.
Most airlines will allow you to take a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight as website provided it's prepared for travel. Some airlines require that you discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a doctor's letter to allow you to travel with your powered wheelchair. Some airlines may also require that you remove the get more info battery-powered part of your wheelchair, and then place it in a protective case.
Get to the airport at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your departure. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, like the owner's manual as well as any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up the check-in and prevent confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
If you are at the counter for tickets to airline or gate, be sure you communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Discuss your wheelchair and any other accessories you may require for example, sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether they will be placing your wheelchair in a special cart or checking it for storage. If you're going to transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to make a direct flight which will reduce the amount of times your equipment will be moved between various locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo compartment along with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you extra to store your scooter or wheelchair like they do with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, make sure you take a picture of it before you leave the airport and immediately inform the airline.