Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are many things to take into consideration. The airport staff and the airline will inquire about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to use it.
Make sure you have all this information in your possession prior to you leave for the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that are compliant with the requirements for air travel.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and stowed securely on planes. They typically come with a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stowed underneath the plane as checked luggage. They can also move on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes, bricks or muddy roads. They may also be equipped with a patented drive system which allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate for boarding. It is essential to contact the airline in advance to ensure they are aware of any specific needs and confirm that they can meet them. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour before your departure time, which is important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is limited and operated on an initial-come first-serve basis. Federal regulations also require that all batteries added to the system be checked with the wheelchair or scooter. They must be shut off unless they are designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also request that you check in an hour before your flight so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions and other helpful information about your mobility or power chair. scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are made for secure and comfortable travel. These power chairs are made to fold up and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can assist you in planning your itinerary and give you the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines require you to 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 that it is stored upright.
Depending on the airline you use depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, address, your phone number, and the wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it gets lost or is damaged during your travels. You may also consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that allow you to remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airport and airline personnel.
You should always arrive at at least two hours prior to the departure time you have scheduled to ensure that the proper storage of your equipment is done. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and allows the airline representative ample time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair prior to travel. This will small electric wheelchairs serve as proof if your device gets damaged during the flight. This will help you to seek compensation for damages from the airline. You should also think about bringing cushions for your seats so electric lightweight wheelchairs that your journey is as relaxing as possible for you. The use of a cushion for your seat is particularly important for flights that last more than an hour, since it will reduce pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those who travel with an approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane is an overwhelming experience. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is feasible with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, speak to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They will be able to help you navigate in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to get your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, it is advised to arrive at least one hour prior to your flight. This gives the airline ample time to inspect your equipment and ensure it will be stowed safely for your trip.
Based on the model of chair you own It could be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. In this case, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the table to aid airline personnel who will handle your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair, like the owner's manual and warranty information. Also, take off any removable items and make sure whether all controls function before leaving for the airport.
Once you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be placed in the check here cargo hold and then stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging you an additional fee to stow assistive devices, like power wheelchairs. This is a great feature for people with disabilities, as it helps them avoid costly expenses.
Once the plane is in the air in the air, a representative from the airline will be in a position to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to slide in the aisle of the aircraft. You can then disembark and your powered wheelchair electric lightweight wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft or at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with the proper planning and following the guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new places. It is important to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to enjoy the freedom it offers.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for passengers who suffer from mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stress-inducing for you, but it's important to adhere to your airline's policies for the transportation and storage of your chair on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your departure to inquire about their policy and ask any questions.
Most airlines allow you to take a motorized wheelchair with you on your trip as long as it's properly prepared for travel. Certain airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a doctor's letter before they will allow you to travel with your electric wheelchair. Some airlines will also require you to take apart the battery-powered part of your chair and then place it in a case that is protected.
Once you're at the airport, make sure you arrive at least two hours prior to your departure time to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, such as the owner's manual as well as any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid to the airport. This will speed up check-in process and help avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the counter for tickets to airline or gate, make sure to be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Discuss your wheelchair and any accessories you may require like seats or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be keeping your wheelchair in a separate cart or checking it for stowage. If you're transferring to the plane with your electric wheelchair, bariatric 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 various locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo area along with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra to store your scooter or wheelchair like they do with your luggage. Take a picture of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.