A Comprehensive Guide To Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair From Start To Finish
A Comprehensive Guide To Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair From Start To Finish
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to consider. The staff at the airport and at the airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair 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 that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance 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. They usually have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel. They can be tucked under the plane as checked luggage. Furthermore they'll be able to navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or roads that are muddy. They could also be fitted with a patented drive system that permits them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate for boarding. However, it is important to contact them ahead of time to make sure they are aware of your requirements and confirm that they can meet those requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour before the time of departure which is crucial during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is not large enough, and it's first come, first serve. Federal regulations also require that all extra batteries be checked by the scooter or wheelchair. They must be disconnected unless they are specifically designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to you bring electric wheelchairs or scooters on their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour prior to your flight so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get assembly/disassembly information and other helpful information regarding your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed for safe and convenient travel. These chairs are designed to fold, and they meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and stowage. If you're planning to travel with your airline of preference, you should contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist you in planning your travel itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date details regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines ask that you remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed, and that it is safely stored upright.
Based on your airline depending on your airline, you might be required to label your wheelchair with the following details such as your name address, number and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it is stolen or damaged during your travels. You may want to buy aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will help you remain in your chair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport 2 hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. If possible be there earlier than two hours before your scheduled departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This allows you to arrive early and allows ample time for the representative of the airline to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you travel, take a picture of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for damages. You should consider bringing a seat cushion to check here make the trip as comfortable as you possibly can. Seat cushions are especially important when you travel for more than an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin preventing soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that is approved 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 attainable.
Contact an airline representative before making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best method to check-in your chair, whether it is at the counter for tickets or the check here gate. In either case, it is recommended to arrive at least one hour before your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure it is safely stowed for your trip.
Depending on the type of chair you own, it may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. If this is the case, it's helpful to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions in order to aid the staff of the airline handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any detachable accessories before you leave for the airport, and to make sure all of the controls are functioning properly.
When you arrive at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the airplane. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra to store assistive devices, like power chairs. This is a great feature for people with disabilities, since it allows them to avoid website unnecessary expenses.
A representative from the airline can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which can be able to fit into the aircraft aisle when the plane lands. After disembarking, your wheelchair will be returned to you at the closest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or at the gate.
It might be difficult to travel with an electric chair, but with the proper planning and following the guidelines, you can enjoy exploring new destinations. The most important thing to remember is that if you are not comfortable moving around in your chair, you'll not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that travel offers.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for people who suffer from mobility issues. If you have mobility scooters or wheelchairs can make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow the airline's policies regarding taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling get more info with a power chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your travels to ask about their policy and to get any questions answered.
Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair on your flight, so provided you prepare it correctly 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 before they will allow you to fly with your power chair. Certain airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery-powered part of your chair, and then place it in a protective case.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before read more flight. It's important to bring any documentation, including the owner's manual as well as any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will speed up the process of checking in and will prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the airline's ticket counter or gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility requirements. Discuss your wheelchair and any accessories you may require, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or whether it will be transported to the plane using an appropriate cart. If you're taking a 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 is moved between various locations.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane it will be stored in the cargo compartment, just like checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you additional fees for the storage of your scooter or wheelchair, the same way they would with your luggage. Take a photo of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.