Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair 101:"The Ultimate Guide For Beginners
Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair 101:"The Ultimate Guide For Beginners
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are a few aspects to be considered. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you a lot of questions regarding the dimensions of your chair, battery type and how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information ready prior to your trip to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that comply with air travel regulations.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines can be safely transported and stored on planes. They will typically have a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. They can also move on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration stripes bricks or muddy roads. They could also be fitted with a unique drive system that allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the boarding gates. It is important to call the airline ahead of time to ensure they are aware of any special needs and confirm that they will be able to accommodate these requirements. Some airlines require you to arrive an hour before your departure time which is essential during busy travel periods.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes for the stowage of a mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited and operated on an initial-come first-serve basis. The federal regulations also demand that all extra batteries be inspected by a scooter or wheelchair. They must be removed unless they are specifically designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to bringing electric wheelchairs or scooters aboard their flights. They also request that you check-in an hour before your flight, to ensure proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent information regarding your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure comfortable and safe travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines will require you to remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals aren't exposed, and that it is safely stowed upright.
Based on your airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following information such as your name, address, phone number and model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment in case it should become lost or damaged during your travels. You may also want to think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which aid you in staying in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that proper stowage of your equipment is completed. If you can 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 early and gives the airline representative ample time to help you stow your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair before you travel. This can be used as proof in the event that your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you ability to seek compensation from the airline for damages. It is also advisable to bring cushions for your seats to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as possible for you. The use of a cushion for your seat is especially important for flights that will last longer than an hour, because it will reduce pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, getting on a plane is a daunting prospect. But, with the right preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, air travel with a power chair is attainable.
Speak to an airline representative prior to making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the best direction, whether you prefer to check-in your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour before your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure that it's safely stored for your journey.
Depending on the model of your power chair, it may be necessary to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it is beneficial to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly in order to aid the staff of the airline handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. You should also remove any removable accessories and make sure that all controls are functioning before you depart for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the aircraft. The airlines are not allowed to charging you an additional cost to store assistive devices like power wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for those with disabilities because it can help them avoid unnecessary expenses.
An airline employee can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can be able to fit into the aircraft aisle when the plane lands. Then, you can disembark, and your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible location to the door of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
A trip with an electric chair can be daunting, but with the right planning and adhering to the guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the thrill of exploring new places with ease. It is important to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to travel with the freedom it offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for those who have mobility issues. If you have an electric or wheelchair can make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's guidelines regarding taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline ahead of time to learn small power chair about their policies regarding power chairs and to ask any questions.
Most airlines allow passengers to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight as you've prepared it for travel. Certain airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will require a physician's letter prior to allowing you to travel with your power wheelchair. Some airlines may also require that you take down the battery-powered part of your chair, and place it in an enclosure that is protected.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to flight. Bring any documentation you might need to the airport, including your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in and prevent confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
On arrival at the ticket counter or gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Provide the kind of wheelchair you're using and any other accessories you may require, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage or whether it will be transported to the aircraft with an adapted cart. If you're taking a transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to take a direct flight which will minimize the number of times that your equipment is moved between locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment along with your checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra to store your scooter or wheelchair, the same way they would with your luggage. Take a photograph of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.