How To Tell If You're Ready For Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
How To Tell If You're Ready For Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to consider. Airport and airline staff will ask you many questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information ready before you go to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that comply with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and stowed securely on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for air travel, and they can be stowed under the plane as checked baggage. They will also be able maneuver on rough surfaces like deceleration stripes, gravel, brick or muddy road. They can also be equipped with a patented drive system which allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate for boarding. It is crucial to contact the airline in advance to ensure that they are aware of any specific needs and confirm that they can meet these requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of the time of departure, which is especially important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes for the stowage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited and operated on a first-come, first-serve basis. Federal regulations also require that all extra batteries be checked with the wheelchair or scooter. They must be shut off unless they are designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before you bring electric wheelchairs or scooters on their flights. They also require to check-in at least an hour before your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful details about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are made for secure and comfortable travel. These chairs are designed to fold, and they meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling, and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can assist you in planning your trip and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to put together 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 done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is securely tucked away in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following information including your name, address, phone number, and model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment in case it should become lost or damaged during your trip. You might also think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which allow you to remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airline and airport personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the departure time you have scheduled to ensure the proper stowage of your equipment is accomplished. If you can be there earlier than two hours prior to your departure time. This is especially crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This lets you check-in early and allows the airline representative plenty of time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair prior to travel. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage in pursuing compensation for any damages from the airline. Consider bringing along a seat cushion to make your flight as comfortable as you can. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights lasting over an hour. They reduce 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 can be daunting. But, with the right preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, traveling using your electric chair is feasible.
Speak to an airline representative prior to making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the right direction, whether you prefer to get your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour prior to your flight is suggested. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and ensure it is safely stored for your journey.
Depending on the kind of power chair you own It may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. In this instance it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the go to help airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. It is also recommended to remove any removable accessories and check whether all controls function before you leave for the airport.
Once you arrive at an airport the electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and then stowed. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you an additional fee to stow assistive devices like electric wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for people with disabilities since they can avoid unnecessary costs.
A representative from the airline can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that will fit on the aircraft aisle when the plane lands. Then, you can disembark, and get more info your wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible location to the aircraft door or at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric chair can be daunting, but with the right planning and adhering to guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the thrill of exploring new destinations easily. The most important thing to remember is that if you are not comfortable moving around in your chair, you will never be able to enjoy the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be extremely stressful for those with mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the journey less stress-inducing for you, but it's essential to follow your airline's policies for transporting and stowing your chair on board the airplane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your travels to ask about their policy and to get any questions answered.
Most airlines allow you to take an electric wheelchair on your trip as you've prepared it for travel. Certain airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a physician's letter before they will allow you to travel with your electric wheelchair. Some airlines will also require you to disassemble the battery-powered component of your chair and then place it in a case that is protected.
When you arrive 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 the flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, including your owner manual and any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid to the airport. This will speed up check-in process and help avoid confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
If you are at the ticket counter of your airline or gate, be sure to be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide the kind of wheelchair you own and any necessary accessories like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be storing your wheelchair in a separate cart or examining it for storage. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book an direct flight to cut down on the amount of times your equipment is moved between locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment as checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. Take a photograph of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.