Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Tips From The Best In The Business
Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Tips From The Best In The Business
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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are several things to take into consideration. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you numerous questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have this information ready prior to your trip to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stowed on planes. They usually have an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be tucked under the plane as checked luggage. They will also be able navigate on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration stripes roads that are muddy or brick. They may also have an exclusive power drive system that permits them to navigate in tight spaces, or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the gates for boarding. However, it is essential to contact them prior to time to ensure they are aware of your needs and to confirm that they are able to meet those needs. Some airlines require that you 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 aircrafts to allow the stowage of a mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited and operates on the basis of first-come-first-serve. They also require that any extra 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 prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour before your flight so that they can ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain assembly/disassembly information and other helpful details about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure safe and convenient travel. These electric chairs can be folded and comply with airline guidelines regarding battery size handling, stowage, and handling. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in planning your trip and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines will require you to remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed and it is stored upright.
Depending on the airline you use or airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following information: your name address, number and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it is lost or damaged during your travels. You might also consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which allow you to remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure the proper stowage of your equipment is completed. Being earlier than that is even better especially during busy power chair holiday times or during 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.
Take a photo of your wheelchair before you travel. This serves as proof if your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you the possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline in case of damages. You should consider bringing a seat cushion to make your flight as comfortable as you possibly can. A seat cushion is especially important for flights that last longer than an hour, because this will minimize the pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline can be intimidating. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is achievable with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Talk to an airline representative prior to making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best method to check-in your chair, whether it is at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it is advised to arrive at least an hour before your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to examine your equipment and ensure that it is safely stored to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the model of your power chair It may be necessary to disassemble the chair prior to it is transported. In this instance it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the more info table to aid airline employees who handle your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair, including the owner's manual as well as warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any removable items and ensure that all controls work before you depart for the airport.
Once you arrive at an airport your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and then stowed. The airlines are not allowed to charging an additional cost to store assistive devices like power wheelchairs. This is a great benefit for those who have disabilities, as it allows them to avoid unnecessary costs.
When the plane lands, an airline employee will be able to transfer you from your power wheelchair to one that is able to slide in the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you will be able to get off the plane and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as is possible in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
It might be difficult to travel with an electric chair, but with right planning and following the rules you can have fun exploring new places. It is essential to keep in mind that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to enjoy the freedom it offers.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for those with mobility issues. If you have mobility scooters or wheelchairs can make your experience more enjoyable. However, it is crucial to adhere to the airline's guidelines for bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline in advance to find out their policy on powerchair wheelchair power chairs and to ask any questions.
Most airlines will let you bring an electric chair on your flight, as provided you prepare it properly for travel. Some airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a physician's letter to allow you to fly with your electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also require you to remove the battery-powered component of your wheelchair and place it in a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours prior to your departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documents you need to the airport, like your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will speed up check-in and prevent confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you reach the ticket counter of your airline or gate, be sure you communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any other accessories you might require for example, seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or whether it will be transported to the aircraft with an appropriate cart. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book a direct flight to minimize the number times your equipment is moved between places.
Once your wheelchair is in the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment as checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment is damaged, make sure you capture a photo prior to leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.