Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to consider. The staff at the airport and airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information ready prior to your trip to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that comply with air travel regulations.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed 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. They can be stowed underneath the plane as checked baggage. They will also be able move on rough surfaces such as deceleration stripes, gravel, bricks or muddy roads. They can also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending which allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the boarding gates. However, it is important to contact them prior to time to ensure that they are aware of your needs and to confirm they can meet those needs. Some airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to your scheduled departure This is particularly 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 a mobility scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited and on a first-come, first-serve basis. Federal regulations also require that all extra batteries be checked with the scooter or wheelchair. They must be shut off unless they are designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour prior to your flight so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions and other helpful information about your mobility or power chair. scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to offer a safe and convenient method of travel. These power chairs are made to fold, and they conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and storage. If you are planning to fly with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist in planning your trip and give you 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 to ensure safety and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is secured in a upright position.
Based on your airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following details: your name, address, phone number, and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it is lost or mishandled during your journey. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will help you remain in your chair during transfers with airport personnel and airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport 2 hours before your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. If you are able be there earlier than two hours prior to your departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This lets you check-in early and allows the representative of the airline plenty of time to help you stow your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair prior to travel. This can be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you the leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for any damages. You should consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to make your flight as comfortable as you can. Cushions for seats are essential when you travel for more than an hour. They can reduce pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.
Check-In
The procedure of boarding an airplane with an more info electric wheelchair that has been accepted by the airline can be daunting. However, with the proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, air travel with your power chair is possible.
Before you book 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 best direction, no matter if you prefer to check-in your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour before your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it's safely stowed for your trip.
Depending on the kind of power chair you have It could be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. In this situation 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 manual and warranty information. Also, remove any accessories that are removable and ensure that all controls work before you leave for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport, your electric chair will be here loaded into the cargo hold and then stowed. Airlines are not allowed to charge you extra for stowing assistive devices like power chairs. This is a great benefit for those click here with disabilities since it helps them save money.
After the plane has landed 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 fit into the aisle of the aircraft. After disembarking, your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
A trip with an electric chair can be daunting, but with the right planning and adherence to guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new locations with ease. 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 affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be extremely stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. If you're traveling with an electric or wheelchair can make your experience more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow the airline's policies regarding bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to find out their policy regarding power chairs and to ask any questions.
Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair for your flight, as long as you prepare it properly for travel. Some airlines may require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and some may require you to have a medical note on file before they will let you fly with your motorized chair. Some airlines will also require you to disassemble the battery-powered component of your chair and put it in a protective case.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your flight. Bring any documents you require to the airport, like your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
Upon arriving at the counter for tickets or gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide a description of your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you might require like seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair for stowage or if it will be transferred to the plane using an appropriate cart. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book an direct flight to cut down on the number of times your device is moved between different locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment, just like checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair, just as they would with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, you must take a picture of it prior to leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.