Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Tips From The Top In The Industry
Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Tips From The Top In The Industry
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several aspects to take into consideration when traveling with an electric chair. Airport and airline staff will ask you numerous questions regarding your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have these details ready before you go to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that comply with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are able to be safely transported and stored on planes. They usually have a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stowed underneath the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore, they will be able to move on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or roads that are muddy. They may also have a patent-pending power drive system that permits them to move in tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the gates for boarding. It is important to contact the airline prior to your departure to make sure they are aware of any specific needs and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate the requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to your scheduled departure This is particularly important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes that allows for the stowage and storage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited and operates on an initial-come first-serve basis. The federal regulations also require that all extra batteries be inspected by a wheelchair or scooter. They must be removed unless they are designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask that you check in one hour before your flight, to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent information about your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to provide a safe and convenient way to travel. These power chairs are made to fold, and they meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and stowage. If you plan to fly with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist you in planning your travel plans and provide you with the most up-to-date details regarding battery requirements. They can also provide you with instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines will require you to remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is safely stowed in a straight position.
Depending on the airline you use depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, your address, your number, and the wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment in case it should become lost or mishandled during your trip. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will help you remain in your chair during transfers with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. If possible you can arrive earlier than two hours prior to your scheduled departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This lets you check in earlier and gives 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 wheelchair is damaged during the flight. This will help you in obtaining compensation for the damages from the airline. You should consider bringing a seat cushion to make your flight as comfortable as possible. Using a seat cushion is especially important for flights that will last longer than an hour, because it reduces pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, boarding a plane can be an overwhelming experience. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is possible with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Before booking your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can guide you in the best direction, whether you prefer to get your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour prior to your flight is suggested. This gives the airline ample time to inspect your equipment and ensure it is safely stored for your trip.
Based on the power chair you have, it may power chairs be necessary for you to disassemble it prior to transportation. In this case it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the go to help airline personnel handling your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair, like the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any accessories that can be removed prior to when you go to the airport and to ensure all the controls are working properly.
Once you are at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the plane. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you an additional fee to stow assistive devices, like power wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for passengers with disabilities, as it helps them save money.
An airline employee will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which will fit on the aircraft aisle when the plane arrives. Then, you can disembark, and your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the shortest possible location to the aircraft door, either at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with the right planning and following guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new locations. It is important to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to travel with the freedom it affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for people who suffer from mobility problems. If you're traveling with a wheelchair or a scooter can make your experience more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow the airline's guidelines regarding taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact your airline prior to your travels to inquire about their policy and get any questions answered.
Most airlines will allow you to take an electric wheelchair on your flight, so you've prepared it for travel. Some 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 power wheelchair. Some airlines may also demand that you remove the battery-powered part of your chair, and then place it in an enclosure that is protected.
Once you're at the airport, make sure you arrive at least two hours prior to your departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, including the owner's manual as well as any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid to the airport. This will help speed up the process of checking in and will make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the counter for tickets or gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Discuss your wheelchair and any other accessories you may need like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be placing your wheelchair in a special cart or checking it for stowage. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book a direct flight to minimize the number of times your device is moved between different locations.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment as checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra fees for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. If your equipment arrives damaged, be sure to take a photograph before you leave the airport and immediately inform the airline.