Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many aspects to take into consideration when traveling with a powered chair. Airport and airline staff 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 are in compliance with the air travel regulations.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines can be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for use on flights, and they can be kept in the airplane as checked baggage. In addition they'll be able to navigate on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or muddy roads. They could also be fitted with a drive system that is patent-pending that permits them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter to the gate for boarding. However, it is essential to contact them ahead of time to ensure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm that they are able to meet your needs. Certain airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to the time of departure This is particularly important during busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their aircrafts to allow the stowage and storage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is not large enough, and it's first come, first served. Federal regulations also require that all extra batteries be checked by the wheelchair or scooter. They must be disconnected unless they are designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to you bring an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also request that you check-in an hour before your flight so that they can ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other details about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to offer an efficient and safe method of travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold, and they conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling, and storage. If you're planning to travel with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can help you plan your itinerary and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide you with instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety and then place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed, and that it is safely stowed upright.
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, address, your phone number, and the wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it gets lost or is mishandled on your trip. You may also want to look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which aid you in staying in your wheelchair when you transfer with airline and airport personnel.
You should always arrive at the airport at two hours before the departure time you have scheduled to ensure that the proper stowage of your equipment is completed. If you can you can arrive earlier than two hours before your departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This lets you arrive early and allows 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 use as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during the flight. This will give you possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for damages. You should also think about bringing cushions for your seats so that your journey is as comfortable as possible for you. Seat cushions are especially important when you travel for more than an hour. They reduce pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, the process click here of getting on a plane is an overwhelming experience. But, with the right preparation and more info adhering to the rules and regulations, flying with a power chair is feasible.
Before booking your flight, speak to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best method to check-in your chair whether at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour before your flight is recommended. This allows the airline plenty of time to inspect your equipment and ensure it will be stowed safely to be ready for your trip.
Based on the model of power chair you have It may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. In this case it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the table to aid airline personnel who will handle your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair, including the owner's manual or warranty information. Also, remove any accessories that are removable and ensure whether all controls function before leaving for the airport.
Once you arrive at an airport your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and stowed. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you an additional cost to store assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for people with disabilities, because it can help them avoid unnecessary expenses.
An airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can be able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft when the plane arrives. Then, you will be able to board the plane, and your power wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as is possible in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric wheelchair can seem intimidating, but with proper planning and adhering to guidelines, it is cheap electric wheelchair possible to experience the joy of exploring new locations without difficulty. The most important thing to keep in click here mind is that if you are not comfortable moving around in your chair, you will not be able to fully take advantage of the freedom that travel affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be very stressful for those with mobility issues. If you're using mobility scooters or wheelchairs could make your experience more enjoyable. However, it's essential to follow the airline's policies regarding bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact the airline prior to your travels to ask about their policy and get any questions answered.
Most airlines will allow you to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight as you've prepared it for travel. Certain airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will need a doctor's letter to allow you to travel with your power wheelchair. Some airlines may also demand that you remove the battery powered portion of your wheelchair, and then place it in an enclosure that is protected.
Once you're at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours before the time of departure to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, such as your owner manual and any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will speed up the process of checking in and will help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the ticket counter of your airline or gate, be sure to communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Provide a description of your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you might require like seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or whether it will be transported to the aircraft using a specialized cart. 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 has been loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo compartment with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of your scooter or wheelchair, like they do with website your luggage. Take a picture of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.