Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are many things to take into consideration. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you numerous questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type as well as how it should be handled.
Be sure to have all of this information at hand before you travel to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that meet the requirements for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and stowed safely on planes. They will typically have a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stowed underneath the plane as checked luggage. They'll also be able to move on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration stripes brick or muddy road. They could also be fitted with a unique drive system that allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the gates for boarding. However, it is essential to contact them prior to time to ensure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet those needs. Some airlines require that you arrive one hour prior to your departure time which is essential during busy travel periods.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is limited and is first come, first served. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected in conjunction with the wheelchair or scooter, as federal regulations require that they are disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with a safe design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before you bring an electric wheelchair or scooter on their flights. They also ask to check-in one hour prior to your flight time so that they can ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain assembly/disassembly information and other helpful information about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to offer a safe and convenient method of travel. These power chairs are made to fold and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and stowage. If you are planning to travel 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 in planning your itinerary and give you the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your chair 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 a straight position.
Depending on the airline you use depending on your airline, you might be asked to label your wheelchair with the following details: your name address, number and model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment if it gets lost or damaged during your travels. You may also want to look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that aid you in staying in your wheelchair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at two hours before the departure time you have scheduled to ensure that proper stowage of your equipment is accomplished. If you can be there earlier than two hours prior to the time you plan to depart. This is particularly important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and allows the low cost electric wheelchair airline representative plenty of time to help you stow your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair prior to travel. This can be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage in obtaining compensation for the damages from the airline. You should also consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as it can be for you. A seat cushion is essential for flights that last more than an hour, since this will minimize the pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is accepted by the airline can be a daunting task. Air travel with a power chair is achievable with proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Contact an airline representative before making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best way to check in your chair, whether it is at the ticket counter or the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour prior to your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure that it is properly and properly stored for your journey.
Depending on the model of your power chair It may be necessary for you to disassemble it prior to transport. In this instance, it's helpful to have instructions light weight electric wheelchair for assembly and disassembly on the go to help airline employees who handle 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 a good idea to remove any accessories that can be removed prior to when you leave for the airport, and to make sure all controls are working properly.
When you arrive at the airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and then stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging you a fee to stow assistive devices, like power wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for those with disabilities since it helps them save get more info money.
After the plane has landed, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit in the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you can disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the nearest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with the proper planning and following the guidelines you can have fun exploring new destinations. The most important thing to remember is that if you are not comfortable moving around in your chair, you'll never take advantage of the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be extremely stressful for people who have mobility issues. If you're traveling with an electric or wheelchair, it can make website your trip more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow the airline's guidelines regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact your airline before your trip to inquire about their policy and to get any questions answered.
Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair for your flight, as provided you prepare it for travel. Certain airlines may require you to recharge the batteries before boarding, and some will need to have a doctor's recommendation on file prior to being able to let you fly with your motorized chair. here Some airlines may also demand that you disassemble the battery powered portion of your chair, and then place it in an enclosure that is protected.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours before your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, including the owner's manual as well as any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will speed up check-in process and help avoid confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
On arrival at the counter for tickets or gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility requirements. Discuss your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you might require, such as seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage or if it will be transferred to the plane using an adapted cart. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book an express flight to reduce the number times your equipment is moved between different locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo compartment with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you extra for storing your wheelchair or scooter, the same way they would with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, you must capture a photo before you leave the airport and immediately inform the airline.