Why Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Isn't As Easy As You Imagine
Why Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Isn't As Easy As You Imagine
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to consider. Airport and airline staff will ask you a lot of questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type as well as how to handle it.
Be sure to have all this information at hand before you travel to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines can be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for travel on planes, and they can be stowed under the plane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to move on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration stripes bricks or muddy roads. They could also have a patent-pending power drive system that permits them to move in tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the gates for boarding. It is essential to contact the airline prior to your departure to make sure they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate these requirements. Some airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to your departure time which is crucial in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is limited and is first come first served. Federal regulations also require that all extra batteries be inspected by a wheelchair or scooter. They must be removed unless they are specifically designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when you bring electric wheelchairs or scooters on their flights. They also ask that you check in one 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 information regarding your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed for secure and comfortable travel. These power chairs can be folded and comply with airline guidelines for battery size and handling, as well as stowage. If you plan to travel with your airline of choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist you in planning your trip and give you the most current information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines will require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed, and it is stored upright.
Depending on the airline you use depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, your address, your number, as well as your wheelchair 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 may want to buy aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to assist you in staying in your chair while you travel with airport personnel and airline personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. Arriving earlier than this is even better, especially during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and gives the airline representative plenty of time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair prior to traveling. This can be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you the ability to seek compensation from the airline for any damages. It is also advisable to bring an extra cushion for your seat to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Seat cushions are especially important for flights that last more than an hour. They reduce pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, getting on a plane is an intimidating experience. Traveling with a power chair is possible with the right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Talk to an airline representative before making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the right direction, regardless of whether you prefer to get your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour before your flight is recommended. This allows the airline plenty of time to inspect your equipment and ensure that it will be stowed safely for your trip.
Depending on your power chair, it may be necessary to disassemble the chair prior to transport. In this case it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the go to help airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any detachable accessories before you travel to the airport, and to make sure all of the controls are in working order.
Once you arrive at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the aircraft. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra fees for the stowing of assistive devices like power chairs. This is a great feature for those with disabilities since it allows them to save money.
When the plane lands at the airport, an airline employee 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 wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible location to the aircraft door, either at the jetbridge or the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines, you can enjoy exploring new places. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if not comfortable moving around in your chair, you'll never enjoy the freedom that traveling offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for people who suffer from mobility problems. Having a wheelchair or 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 the airplane. If indoor electric wheelchair you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact the airline before your trip to ask about their policy and get any questions answered.
Many airlines will allow you to bring an electric chair on your flight, as long as you prepare it correctly to travel. Certain airlines may require you to recharge the batteries before boarding, and some will need to have a medical note on file prior to being able to let you fly with your motorized chair. Certain airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery-powered part of your chair, and place it into a case that is safe.
Once you're at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours before your scheduled departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's important to bring any documentation, including your owner's manual or instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid to the airport. This will speed up check-in process and help avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you reach the ticket counter of your airline or gate, be sure to communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Explain your wheelchair and any accessories you may need, such as seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or if it will be transferred to the plane using an adapted cart. If you're going to transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, you should try to book a direct flight, which will cut down on the number of times your equipment will be transferred between various locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo compartment along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment arrives damaged, you must take a picture of it prior to leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.