Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are several things to take into consideration. Airport and airline staff will ask you numerous questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have these details in hand prior to you travel to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with the air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA will approve them for air travel and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. In addition, they will be able to navigate on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or roads that are muddy. They can also be equipped with a unique drive system that permits them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate to board. It is important to contact the airline in advance to make sure they are aware of any special needs and to confirm that they can meet them. Some airlines require you to be at least an hour before your departure time This is crucial in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. This space is limited, and it's first come, first serve. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair because federal regulations require they must be removed from the device unless it is equipped with a secure design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before you bring an electric wheelchair or scooter on their flights. They also request that you check-in an hour before your flight, to ensure proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions and other helpful details about your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure safe and convenient travel. These power chairs can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline standards for battery size, handling and stowage. If you plan to travel with the airline of your preference, you should contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can assist you in planning your trip and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety. You can then put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals aren't exposed, and it is placed upright.
Depending on the airline you use, you may need to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, your address, your number, and your wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it gets lost or is mishandled on your trip. You may also consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will allow you to remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at at two hours before the departure time you have scheduled to ensure that the proper storage of your equipment is accomplished. If you can you can arrive earlier than two hours before your departure time. This is particularly crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This allows you to arrive early and allows ample time for the representative of the airline to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Before you leave, take a picture of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you ability to seek compensation from the airline for any damages. You should consider bringing a seat cushion to make the trip as comfortable as possible. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights that last more than an hour. They reduce the pressure on your skin preventing soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be intimidating. However, with proper preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, flying using your electric chair is feasible.
Speak to an airline representative prior to making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best way to check in your chair whether at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, arriving at electric light weight wheelchair least one hour prior to your flight is recommended. This allows the airline plenty of time to check your equipment and ensure it is safely stored to be ready for your carbon fibre electric wheelchair trip.
Depending on the type of chair you own It may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. If this is the case, it's helpful to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to help the airline personnel handling your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair, including the owner's manual and warranty information. Also, remove any accessories that are removable and check whether all controls function before you leave for the airport.
Once you are at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the airplane. The airlines are not allowed to charging website an additional cost to store assistive devices like power wheelchairs. This is a great feature for those with disabilities because it can help them avoid unnecessary expenses.
After the plane has landed at the airport, an airline employee will be able to transfer you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit in the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you will be able to disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new places. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you're uncomfortable in your chair, you'll never enjoy the freedom that travel offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be very stressful for people who have mobility issues. If you're using mobility scooters or wheelchairs can make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow the airline's policies regarding bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to inquire about their policy on power chairs and to ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair for your flight, so provided you prepare it correctly to travel. Some airlines may require you to charge the batteries prior to boarding and some will need to have a medical note on file before they will allow you to fly with your electric chair. Certain airlines may also require you to remove the battery-powered component of your wheelchair and place it in a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, make sure you arrive at read more least two hours before the time of departure to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. Bring any documents you require to the airport, such as your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in process and can help avoid confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.
On arrival at the airline's ticket counter or gate, make sure to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Be sure to describe the kind of wheelchair you're using and any other accessories you may require like cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be placing your wheelchair in a specific cart or checking it for stowage. If you're taking a transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, try to take a click here direct flight which will reduce the number of times that your equipment will be moved between locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment, just like checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. Take a photo of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.