Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are many things to take into consideration. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you many questions regarding your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have all these details in hand prior to you leave for the airport. Also, make sure 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 designed to be transported and stowed safely on planes. The FAA can approve them for air travel and they can be kept under the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore they'll be able to move on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips, brick or roads that are muddy. They could also be fitted with a unique drive system that permits them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter to the gate to board. It is essential to call the airline ahead of time to ensure they are aware of any specific needs and to confirm that they are able to meet the requirements. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of the time of departure, which is especially important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. This space is limited and it's first come, first served. Federal regulations also require that any additional batteries be checked with the wheelchair or scooter. They must be disconnected unless they are specifically designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask that you check in 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 airport personnel can gather details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful information about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are made for safe and convenient travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold up and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling, and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair for safety purposes and place 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 straight position.
Depending on the airline you use or airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following information: your name address, number, and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately 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 help you remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airline and airport personnel.
You should arrive at the airport 2 hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. Being earlier than that is even better if possible especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and gives the airline representative ample time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you leave and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage in pursuing compensation for damages from the airline. Consider bringing along a seat cushion to make the flight as comfortable as you possibly can. A seat cushion is essential for flights that last more than an hour, since it will reduce pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be intimidating. However, with proper preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, traveling using your electric chair is feasible.
Contact an airline representative before making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best method to check in your chair, whether it is at the ticket counter or the gate. In either case, it is recommended that you arrive at least one hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure it is safely stored for your journey.
Based on the power chair you have It could be necessary for you to disassemble the chair prior to it is transported. If this is the case, it's beneficial to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly in order to aid the airline employees handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also recommended to remove any removable accessories and make sure whether all controls function before you depart for the airport.
Once you arrive at an airport the electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and stowed. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra for stowing assistive devices like power chairs. This is a great feature for people with disabilities, as it helps them save money.
After the plane has landed at the airport, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you will be able to get off the plane and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as you can in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines you can have fun exploring new destinations. check here The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you are uncomfortable in your chair, you will never take advantage of the freedom that travel offers.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for people who suffer from mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, but it is important to follow the guidelines of your airline for transporting and stowing your chair on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact the airline before your trip to inquire about their policies and ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your trip as provided it's prepared for travel. Some airlines require you to discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a physician's letter before they will check here allow you to fly with your power wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered portion of your chair and then place it inside a protective case.
When click here you arrive at the airport, make sure you arrive at least two hours prior to your departure here time to ensure that your airline has click here enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. Bring any documentation you might need 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 avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
On arrival at the counter for tickets or gate, make sure to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Discuss your wheelchair and any accessories you may require, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be keeping your wheelchair in a separate cart or examining it for stowage. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book an direct flight to cut down on the number times your equipment is moved between locations.
Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo compartment along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment is damaged, you must take a photograph before leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.