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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric WheelchairIf you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are several things to take into consideration. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you a lot of questions regarding the dimensions of your chair, battery type and how to handle it.
Make sure you have all these details in hand prior to you head to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that comply with air travel regulations.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines can be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA can approve them for use on flights and they can be stored in the airplane as checked baggage. They will also be able maneuver on rough surfaces such as deceleration stripes, gravel, roads that are muddy or brick. They can also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending that allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the gates for boarding. However, it is important to contact them prior to time to ensure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet those requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour before your departure time, which is important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes for the stowage and storage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is not large enough and is first come, first served. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair because federal regulations require they be disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with an effective design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour prior to your flight time so that they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful information regarding your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to offer a safe and convenient method of travel. These electric chairs can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines regarding battery size handling, stowage, and handling. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These experts can assist you in planning your travel itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. 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 terminals are not exposed, and it is placed upright.
Depending on the airline you fly with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, your address, your telephone number, and the wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it is stolen or mishandled on your trip. You might also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will help you remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airline and airport personnel.
You should arrive get more info at the airport 2 hours prior to your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment storage. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better particularly during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This lets you check-in early and gives the representative of the airline plenty of time to help you stow your chair.
Before you leave to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for the damages from the airline. Consider bringing along cushions to make the trip as comfortable as you possibly can. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights that last more than an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, getting on a plane is an overwhelming experience. However, with the proper preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, flying using your electric chair is possible.
Contact an airline representative prior to making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you in the right direction, whether you prefer to get your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, it is advised to arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure that it is properly and properly stored for your journey.
Based on the power chair you have It may be necessary to disassemble it before it is transported. In this situation, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in hand to assist the airline personnel handling your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair, including the owner's manual or warranty information. You should also remove any removable accessories and check that all controls work before leaving for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. Airlines are not permitted to charge you extra for stowing assistive devices like power chairs. This is a wonderful benefit for people with disabilities, because it can help them avoid costly expenses.
An airline employee will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit down the aisle of the aircraft when the plane lands. After disembarking, your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the shortest possible location to the door of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric chair can be intimidating, but with here proper planning and adhering to guidelines, you can be able to experience the joy of exploring new places without difficulty. It is important to remember 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 crowded and this can be stressful for people who suffer from mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, but it's important to adhere to the policies of your airline regarding the transportation and storage of your chair on board the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact your airline before your trip to inquire about their policy and get any questions answered.
Most airlines will allow you to take an electric wheelchair on your trip as you've prepared it for travel. Some airlines may require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and some may require you to have a medical note on file prior to being able to allow you to fly using your electric chair. Some airlines will also require you to take apart the battery-powered part of your chair and then place it inside a protective case.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your departure. Bring any documentation you might require to the airport, such as your manual website or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you reach the airline ticket counter or at the gate, be sure you explain your mobility needs clearly. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any accessories you might require for example, seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be storing your wheelchair in a specific cart or examining it for stowage. If you're transferring to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to make a direct flight which will cut down on the number of times that your equipment will be moved between locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment along with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. If your equipment is damaged, be sure to capture a photo prior to leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.