Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling 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 it should be handled.
Make sure you have these details prepared before you travel to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with the regulations for air travel.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stowed on planes. They typically come with a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be tucked under the plane as checked luggage. Furthermore, they will be able to move on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or roads that are muddy. They could also have an exclusive power drive system that permits them to navigate in tight spaces, or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the gates for boarding. However, it is important to contact them prior to time to ensure that they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet those needs. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour before the departure time you have scheduled, which is important during busy travel periods.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is not large enough, and it's first come first served. The federal regulations also demand that all extra batteries be checked by the scooter or wheelchair. They must be shut off unless they are designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also request to check-in at least an hour before your flight so that they can ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. They also request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent details about your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to provide the most secure and comfortable way to travel. These electric chairs can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and stowage. If you are planning to fly with your airline of preference, you should contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist you in planning your trip and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also give you assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines will require you to take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and put it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is secured in a straight position.
Depending on the airline you travel with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, address, your phone number, and the wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it should become lost or mishandled during your trip. You may want to buy aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will assist you in staying in your chair while you travel with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours before your scheduled departure discount electric wheelchairs time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. Being earlier than that is even better particularly during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This allows you to arrive early and allows ample time for the airline representative to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Before you travel and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during your flight. This will give you leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for any damages. Consider bringing along an extra cushion for your seat to make the flight as comfortable as you can. Seat cushions are especially important when you travel for click here more than an hour. They can reduce pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, getting on a plane is a daunting prospect. Air travel with a power chair is achievable with right preparation and compliance with rules and get more info regulations.
Before booking your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best way to check into your seat, whether it is at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour prior to your flight is suggested. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and ensure it is safely stored for your journey.
Based on the model lightweight wheelchairs electric of power chair you own It could be necessary to disassemble it for transport. If this is the case, it is beneficial to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions on hand to help the airline employees handling your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair, such as the owner's manual or warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any removable items and check that all controls are functioning before you leave for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the airplane. The airlines are prohibited from charging you an additional cost to store assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for those with disabilities as it helps them save money.
An airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that will fit on the aisle of the aircraft once the plane lands. You will then be able to get off the plane and your power wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as you can in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
A trip with an electric wheelchair can seem daunting, but with the right planning and adherence to guidelines, it is possible to experience the joy of exploring new places with ease. It is essential to keep in mind that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to enjoy the freedom it offers.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for those with mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stress-inducing for you, but it's essential to follow the guidelines of your airline for the transportation and storage of your chair on board the airplane. Contact the airline in advance to learn about their policies regarding power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized chair for your flight, as provided you prepare it to travel. Some airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to taking off 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 take apart the battery-powered part of your chair and put it in a case that is protected.
Once you're at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours prior to the time of departure so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, such as your owner's manual or instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will help power chairs speed up the check-in process and can help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
On arrival at the counter for tickets or gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility requirements. Explain the kind of wheelchair you own and any accessories you require like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be keeping your wheelchair in a specific cart or examining it for stowage. If you're going to transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, try to book a direct flight, which will cut down on the amount of times your equipment is moved between locations.
Once your wheelchair is in the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment as checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. Take a photograph of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.