Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many things you should consider when traveling with an electric chair. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you numerous questions regarding your chair's dimensions and battery type as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information at hand before you leave for the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and stowed securely on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for air travel, and they can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. They can also move on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes roads that are muddy or brick. They could also be fitted with a patented drive system that permits them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate for boarding. However, it is important to contact them ahead of time to ensure they are aware of your needs and to confirm they can meet those needs. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour before the time of departure, which is especially important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. This space is limited and operated on a first-come, first-serve basis. They also require that any additional batteries be checked as part of the scooter or wheelchair as federal regulations require that they are disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with a safe design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to taking an electric wheelchair or scooter on their flights. They also request that you check-in an hour before your flight so that they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions as well as other useful information regarding your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are made for safe and convenient travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold, and they comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and stowage. If you're planning to travel with the airline of your choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These experts can help you plan your travel itinerary and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines will require you to take the wheelchair's battery out of the way to ensure safety and put it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is safely stowed in a straight position.
Based on your airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following details such as your name address, number and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event that it is stolen or mishandled during your journey. You may want to buy aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will allow you to remain in your chair during transfers with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in more info good stowage. Arriving earlier than this is even better if possible, especially during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This lets you check in early and provides ample time for the airline representative to assist you with stowing your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair prior to traveling. This serves as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage in obtaining compensation for the damages from the airline. You should consider bringing cushions to make your flight as comfortable as you possibly can. The use of a cushion for your seat is particularly important when you travel for over an hour, as it reduces pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, boarding a plane can be an overwhelming experience. But, with the right preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, flying using your electric chair is feasible.
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 method to check in your chair regardless of whether it's at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, it is recommended that you arrive at least one hour before your flight. This gives the airline ample time to examine your equipment and make sure that it will be stowed safely to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the model of your power chair, it may be necessary to disassemble it before it is transported. In this case it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the table to aid airline personnel handling your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety lightest electric wheelchair or maintenance documentation to your chair, including the owner's manual as well as warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any accessories that can be removed prior to when you leave for the airport and to ensure all the controls are functioning properly.
Once you are at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the aircraft. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you an additional cost to store assistive devices like electric wheelchairs. This is a wonderful benefit for those with disabilities since it allows them to avoid unnecessary expenses.
When the plane lands in the electric lightweight wheelchair air, a representative from the airline will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to one that is able to fit down the aircraft aisle. After disembarking, your wheelchair will be returned to you at the shortest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft or at the jetbridge or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with right planning and following guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new locations. The most important thing to remember is that if you're uncomfortable in your chair, you will not be able to fully take advantage of the freedom that travel affords.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can small electric wheel chair be packed, and this can be stressful for people who have mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, however cheap electric wheelchairs it's important to adhere to the guidelines of your airline for transporting and stowing your chair on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact the airline before your trip to inquire about their policy and ask any questions.
Most airlines allow you to bring an electric wheelchair on your flight, so provided it's prepared for travel. Some airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will require a physician's letter prior to allowing you to fly with a power wheelchair. Some airlines will also require you to remove the battery-powered portion of your chair and then place it inside a protective case.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, like your owner's manual or instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
If you are at the ticket counter of your airline or at the gate, be sure to be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Be sure to describe the kind of wheelchair you own and any accessories you require like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be storing your wheelchair in a special cart or checking it for storage. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book a direct flight to minimize the amount of times your equipment is moved between different locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo area along with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment is damaged, make sure you capture a photo before leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.