A Reference To Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair From Start To Finish
A Reference To Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair From Start To Finish
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are many aspects to be considered. The staff at the airport and on the plane 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 ready before you go to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with the air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stowed on planes. The FAA can approve them for air travel and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. In addition, they will be able to move on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or muddy roads. They may also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending that allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter to the gate to board. It is however important to contact them ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet those needs. Certain airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to the time of departure, which is especially important during busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes that allows for the stowage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited and operated on a first-come, first-serve basis. They also require that any additional batteries be checked as part of the wheelchair or scooter, as federal regulations require that they are disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a safe design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require to check-in one hour before your flight so that they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get assembly/disassembly information and other helpful information about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are made for safe and convenient travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and stowage. If you're planning to fly with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist you in planning your travel itinerary and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety. You can then put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is secured in a straight position.
Depending on your airline or airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following information such as your name address, number, and model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment in case it should become lost or damaged during your trip. You may also want to look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that allow you to remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airline and airport personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. Arriving earlier than this is even better if possible particularly during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and gives the airline representative ample time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair prior to travel. This serves as proof if your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage in pursuing compensation for damages from the airline. You should consider bringing a seat cushion to make your flight as comfortable as possible. Seat cushions are especially important for flights lasting over an hour. They reduce the pressure on your skin and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline may be intimidating. However, with proper preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, air travel with a power chair is attainable.
Before booking your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the right direction, regardless of whether you prefer to make your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it's recommended that you arrive at least one hour before your flight. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and make sure that it will be stowed safely for your journey.
Depending on the type of chair you own, it may 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 employees who handle your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any removable items and check whether all controls function before leaving for the airport.
Once you are at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the airplane. The electric lightweight wheelchairs airlines aren't allowed to charging an additional cost to store assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for passengers with disabilities since it allows them to avoid unnecessary costs.
An airline employee can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which can be able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft once the plane lands. After disembarking, your wheelchair is returned to you at the shortest possible location to the aircraft door, either at the jetbridge or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric wheelchair can seem daunting, but with careful planning and adhering to guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new places without difficulty. It is crucial to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for those who have mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stress-inducing for you, but it's important to adhere to the policies of your airline regarding bringing and stowing your chair on board the airplane. Contact the airline in advance to find out their policy on power chairs and to ask any questions.
Most airlines allow you to bring an electric chair on your flight, so provided you prepare it properly for travel. Some airlines might require you to charge the batteries prior to boarding and some may require you to have a doctor's note in order to allow you to fly with your power chair. Some airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered component of your chair and then place it inside a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, make sure you arrive at least two hours before the time of departure to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, like the owner's manual as well as any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will help speed up the check-in process and can make sure that there is no confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.
Upon arriving at the counter for tickets or at the gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Explain your wheelchair and any accessories you may need for example, seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be placing your wheelchair in a special cart or checking it for stowage. If you're transferring to the plane with your electric wheelchair, try to take a direct flight which will cut down on the amount of times your equipment is moved between locations.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment, just like checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for storing a wheelchair or scooter. Take a picture of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.