10 Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Tips All Experts Recommend
10 Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Tips All Experts Recommend
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are many things to consider. Airport and airline staff will ask you a lot of questions regarding your chair's dimensions and battery type as well as how to handle it.
Be sure to have all this information at hand before you travel to the airport. Make sure 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 ones that are designed to be transported and stowed safely on airplanes. They will typically have an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be tucked under the plane as checked baggage. They can also move on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration stripes bricks or muddy roads. They could also be fitted with a unique drive system that allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the gate to board. However, it is important to contact them ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of your requirements and confirm that they can meet your needs. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour before the departure time you have scheduled which is essential during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes for the stowage of a wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is not large enough and is first come, first serve. They also require that any extra batteries be checked as part of the scooter or wheelchair as federal regulations require that they are disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a secure design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask to check-in at least an hour prior to your flight so that they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions as well as other useful details about your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure comfortable and safe travel. These power chairs can be folded and comply with airline standards for battery size and handling, as well as stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can assist you in preparing your itinerary and give you the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines will require you to take the wheelchair's battery out of the way to ensure safety and 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 a upright position.
Based on your airline or airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following information including your name address, number, and model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment if it should become lost or damaged during your travels. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will assist you in staying in your seat during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
You should arrive at at two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure proper stowage of your equipment is completed. Being earlier than that is even better if possible, especially during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This lets you arrive early and allows ample time for the airline representative to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you travel to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during the flight. This will help you in obtaining compensation for any damages from the airline. It is also advisable to bring a seat cushion with you so that your journey is as comfortable as it can be for you. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights that last more than an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
For those who travel with an airline approved electric wheelchair, boarding a plane can be an intimidating experience. But, electric wheelchair power chair with the right preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, traveling using your electric chair is attainable.
Before you book your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They will be able to guide you in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to make your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour prior to your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it is properly and properly stored for your trip.
Depending on the type of power chair you own, it may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. In this instance it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in hand to assist the airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any accessories that can be removed prior to when you go to the airport, and to make sure all controls are working properly.
Once you arrive at the airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and stowed. The airlines are not allowed to charging you an additional fee to stow assistive devices like electric wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for those with disabilities as they can avoid unnecessary costs.
When the plane lands, an airline employee will be able to transfer you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to fit in the aisle of the aircraft. You will then be able to disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
Traveling with an electric wheelchair may seem intimidating, but with proper planning and adhering to guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new locations easily. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you're electric automatic wheelchair uncomfortable in your chair, you will not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that traveling provides.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for people who have mobility problems. If you have mobility scooters or wheelchairs could make your experience more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow the airline's policies regarding taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline in advance to find out their policy regarding power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Most airlines allow you to take a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight, so you've prepared it for travel. Certain airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will require a doctor's letter before they will allow you to fly with a powered wheelchair. Some airlines may also demand that you take down the battery powered portion of your chair, and place it into a case that is safe.
When you arrive at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours prior to the time of here departure to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, such as your owner manual and any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the ticket counter or gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Explain your wheelchair and any other accessories you may require, such as seat cushions or more info sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be keeping your wheelchair in a separate cart or checking it more info for stowage. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book a direct flight to minimize the number times your equipment is moved between locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo compartment along with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you additional fees for the storage of your scooter or wheelchair the same way they would with your luggage. Take a photograph of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.