A Step-By-Step Guide To Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair From Beginning To End
A Step-By-Step Guide To Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair From Beginning To End
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to take into consideration. The staff at the airport and at the airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions and battery type, as well as how to use it.
Make sure you have these details ready before you go to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that comply with air travel regulations.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines can be safely transported and stowed on planes. They usually have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stored under the plane as checked luggage. They will also be able maneuver on rough surfaces, such as deceleration stripes, gravel, brick or muddy road. They could also be equipped with a patent-pending power drive system that allows them to move in tight spaces or lifts.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the boarding gates. It is however important to contact them prior to time to ensure that they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet those needs. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour before your departure time which is crucial in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is limited and operated on an initial-come first-serve basis. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair because federal regulations require they must be removed from the device unless it is equipped with a safe design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also request to check-in one hour prior to your flight time to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other details about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to offer a safe and convenient way to travel. These power chairs can be folded and are in line with airline standards for battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most current details regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety and then place it into a carryon bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed and that it is safely stored upright.
Depending on the airline you fly with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, address, your telephone number, and the wheelchair model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it should become lost or damaged during your trip. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to help you remain in your chair during transfers with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure proper stowage of your equipment is accomplished. If you are able be there earlier than two hours before the time you plan to depart. This is especially important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and allows the airline representative ample time to help you stow your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair before you travel. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged on the flight. This will help you in obtaining compensation for any damages from the airline. You should consider bringing a seat cushion to make the trip as comfortable as you possibly can. Cushions for seats are essential for flights that last more than an hour. They reduce the pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those who travel with an approved electric wheelchair, boarding a plane can be an overwhelming experience. However, with proper preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, traveling with a power chair is attainable.
Contact an airline representative before booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you in the right direction, regardless of whether you prefer to check-in your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour prior to your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure it is safely and properly stored for your trip.
Depending on the model of your power chair It may be necessary for you to disassemble the chair prior to transport. In this case it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the go to help airline personnel who will handle your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair, such as the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also recommended to remove any accessories that are removable and check that all controls work before leaving for the airport.
Once you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra fees for the stowing of assistive devices such as power chairs. This is an excellent benefit for those with disabilities as it allows them to avoid unnecessary costs.
An airline employee can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which will fit on the aircraft aisle when the plane lands. You will then be able to get off the plane and your power wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as possible in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
It might be difficult to travel in an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines, you can enjoy exploring new locations. It is important to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to enjoy the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be extremely stressful for those with mobility issues. If you're traveling with a wheelchair or a scooter, it can make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it's essential to follow the airline's guidelines regarding bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your departure to ask about their policy and get any questions answered.
Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, so provided you prepare it to travel. Some airlines may require you to recharge the batteries prior to boarding and some will need to have a medical note on file before they will let you fly with your electric chair. Some airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered portion 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 departure. 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, with you to the airport. This will help speed up the check-in process and can prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
On arrival at the ticket counter or gate, make sure to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Provide the type of wheelchair you have and any accessories you require, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or the possibility of power chairs for disabled transferring it to the plane using a specialized cart. If you're transferring to the plane using your electric wheelchair, you should try to take a direct flight which will reduce the amount of times your equipment will be moved between locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment as checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment arrives damaged, make sure you take a photograph before leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.