Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several things you should consider when traveling with an electric chair. The airport staff and airline personnel 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 prepared before you travel to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with air travel regulations.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and stowed securely on planes. The FAA can approve them for use on flights, and they can be stowed under the plane as checked baggage. They will also be able navigate on rough surfaces, such as deceleration stripes, gravel, roads that are muddy or brick. They could also be equipped with a patent-pending power drive system that enables them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter to the boarding gate. It is however important to contact them ahead of time to make sure they are aware of your needs and to confirm that they are able to meet those needs. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of the time of departure This is particularly important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of a wheelchair or mobility scooter. This space is limited and operated on an initial-come first-serve basis. The federal regulations also require that any additional batteries be checked by the wheelchair or scooter. They must be removed unless they are specifically designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair on their flights. They also require that you check in an 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 staff with assembly/disassembly instructions as well as other useful details about your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved 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 storage. If you are planning to travel with the airline of your choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can assist you in planning your travel itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require you to remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed, and it is placed upright.
Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, address, your number, and the wheelchair model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment if it gets lost or mishandled during your trip. You may want to buy aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will allow you to remain in your chair while you travel with airport personnel and airline personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure proper stowage of your equipment is done. Arriving earlier than this is even better especially during busy times check here of the year or during rush hour. This allows you to arrive early and allows plenty of time for the airline representative to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Before you travel to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage in obtaining compensation for the damages from the airline. Consider bringing along a seat cushion to make your flight as comfortable as possible. Using a seat cushion is particularly important for flights that last over an hour, as it will reduce the pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that has been accepted by the airline can be intimidating. Air travel with a power chair is feasible with right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Before booking your flight, talk to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best way to check-in your chair, whether it is at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it is advised to arrive at least one hour before your flight. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it's safely stowed to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the model of your power chair It could be necessary to disassemble it prior to transportation. If this is the case, it is helpful to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions available to assist airline employees handling your chair. amazon power chairs It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair, like the owner's manual as well as warranty information. Also, remove any removable accessories and make sure electric wheel chairs that all controls work before you depart for the airport.
When you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra to store assistive devices, such as power chairs. This is a wonderful benefit for passengers with disabilities, since it allows them to save money.
An airline employee will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can be able to fit into the aircraft aisle when the plane arrives. You will then be able to get off the plane and your wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as is possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric wheelchair may seem daunting, but with careful planning and adhering to guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the thrill of exploring new destinations easily. 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 affords.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for people who suffer from mobility issues. If you have mobility scooters or wheelchairs can make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's guidelines regarding bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline in advance to find out their policy on power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Most airlines will let you bring an electric chair on your flight, so provided you prepare it for travel. Certain airlines may require you to recharge the batteries before boarding, and some will require you to have a doctor's note in order to allow you to fly using your electric chair. Certain airlines may also require you to disassemble the battery-powered component of your chair and put it in a case that is protected.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your flight. Bring any documentation you might need to the airport, such as your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in process and avoid confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the counter for tickets to airline or gate, be sure you be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide the kind of wheelchair you're using and any accessories you require, such as cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be placing your wheelchair in a specific cart or examining it for stowage. If you're taking a transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to book a direct flight, which will reduce the amount of times your equipment will be transferred between different locations.
When your wheelchair is electric wheelchair to buy loaded on the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment, just like checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. Take a photograph of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Contact the airline cheap power chairs immediately.