Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many things you should consider when traveling with powered chairs. Airport and airline staff will ask you numerous questions regarding your chair's dimensions, battery type and how it should be handled.
Make sure you have this information prepared before you travel to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that meet 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 safely on planes. They usually have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stowed underneath the plane as checked baggage. They can also move on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration stripes, bricks or muddy roads. They could also be equipped with a patented power drive system that enables them to navigate in tight spaces, or lifts.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the gates for boarding. It is essential to call the airline ahead of time to ensure they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate them. Some airlines require you to be at least one hour prior to your departure time, which is important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage and storage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. This space is limited and is first come first served. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair as federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless it is equipped with a safe design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to you bring an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require to check-in one hour prior to your flight to ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful information regarding your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed for secure and comfortable travel. These power chairs are made to fold up and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and storage. If you are planning to travel with the airline of your choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can assist you in planning your itinerary and give you the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines require you to take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed, and that it is placed upright.
Depending on the airline you fly with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, your address, your telephone number, and your wheelchair 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 look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which help you remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. If possible you can arrive earlier than two hours before your departure time. This is especially crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This allows you to check in early and allows the airline representative plenty of time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair prior to travel. This can be used as proof in the event that your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you lightweight electric wheelchair uk leverage in obtaining compensation for damages from the airline. You should consider bringing cushions to make the trip as comfortable as possible. Seat cushions are especially important when you travel for more than an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be daunting. But, with the right preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, flying with a power chair is feasible.
Speak to an airline representative prior to making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They will be able to help you navigate in the right direction, whether you prefer to check-in your chair 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 to inspect your equipment, and ensure it is safely stored for your journey.
Based on the power chair you have, it may be necessary for you to disassemble it before transportation. If this is the case, it is beneficial to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly in order to aid the airline employees handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable accessories before you go to the airport, and to make sure all controls are in working order.
When you arrive at the here airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and then stowed. The airlines are not allowed to charging you an additional fee to stow assistive devices like power wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for people with disabilities as they can avoid unnecessary costs.
When the plane lands, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to slide discount electric wheelchairs into the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you will be able to get off the plane and your power wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as is possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with the proper planning and following the guidelines, you can enjoy exploring new places. The most important thing to remember is that if not comfortable moving around in your chair, you'll more info never enjoy the freedom that travel affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, however it is important to follow your airline's policies for transporting and stowing your chair on board the plane. Contact the airline in advance to learn about their policies on power chairs, and to inquire about any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight as long as it's properly prepared for travel. Some airlines may require you to charge the batteries prior to boarding and some will need to have a medical note on file prior to being able to allow you to fly using your electric chair. Some airlines may also require that you take down the battery-powered portion of your chair, and then place it in a case that is safe.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to departure. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, such as the owner's manual as well as any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
If you are at the counter for tickets to airline or at the gate, be sure to communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Provide the type of wheelchair you have and any accessories you require, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be checking your read more wheelchair for stowage, or the possibility of transferring it to the aircraft with an adapted cart. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book an direct flight to cut down on the amount of times your equipment is moved between different 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 does not permit airlines to charge you extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair like they do with your luggage. Take a photograph of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.