Five Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Lessons Learned From Professionals
Five Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Lessons Learned From Professionals
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are many things to consider. The staff at the airport and the airline will inquire about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have all of this information at hand before you travel to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that meet the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA will approve them for use on flights and they can be kept under the plane as checked baggage. They can also maneuver on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes roads that are muddy or brick. They can also be equipped with a unique drive system which allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the boarding gates. However, it is important to contact them prior to time to ensure they are aware of your needs and to confirm that they are able to meet those requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive one hour prior to your departure time, which is important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. This space is limited and is first come, first serve. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected as part of the wheelchair or scooter, because federal regulations require they must be removed from the device unless it is equipped with an effective 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 that you check-in an hour before your flight, so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions and other helpful details about your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed for secure and comfortable travel. These electric chairs can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline guidelines regarding battery size and handling, as well as stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide you with instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines will require you to take the wheelchair's battery out of the way to ensure safety and put it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is secured in a upright position.
Depending on the airline you travel with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, your address, your phone number, and the wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it is lost or mishandled on your trip. You may also want to look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will help you remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
You should always arrive at the airport at two hours before the departure time you have scheduled to ensure that the proper storage of your equipment is done. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better, especially during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This lets you arrive early and allows plenty of time for the airline representative to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you travel, take a picture of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your device is damaged during your flight. This will give you leverage in obtaining compensation for any damages from the airline. Consider bringing along cushions to make the flight as comfortable as possible. Using a seat cushion is essential for flights that last longer than an hour, because it reduces pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, the process of boarding a plane can be an intimidating experience. However, with proper preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, air travel using your electric chair is attainable.
Before booking your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They'll be able to help you navigate in the right direction, regardless of whether you prefer to check-in your seat at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it's advised to arrive at least an hour before your flight. This gives the airline ample time to inspect your equipment and ensure that it will be safely towed for your journey.
Based on the power chair you have It may be necessary to disassemble it before it is transported. In this instance it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the go to help airline employees who handle your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair, including the owner's manual as well attendant controlled electric power wheelchair as warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any detachable accessories before you go to the airport and to ensure all the controls are working properly.
When you arrive at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the airplane. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you a fee to stow assistive devices like power wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for passengers with disabilities, since it allows them to avoid unnecessary expenses.
After the plane has landed in the air, a representative from the airline will be capable of transferring you from your power wheelchair to one that is able to slide into the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you will be able to disembark, and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as possible in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
A trip with an electric chair can be intimidating, but with proper planning and adherence to guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new locations with ease. It is essential to keep in mind that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to travel with the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for those with mobility problems. If you're using mobility scooters or wheelchairs, it can make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it is crucial to adhere to the airline's guidelines for the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact the airline prior to your travels to inquire about their policies and to get any questions answered.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, so long as you prepare it properly for travel. Some airlines may require you to charge the batteries prior to boarding and some may require you to have a doctor's note in order to allow you to fly with your electric chair. Certain airlines may also require that you remove the battery powered portion of your chair, and place it in an enclosure that is protected.
Get to the airport at minimum two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, such as your owner manual and any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and can make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
When you arrive at the airline ticket counter or gate, make sure you communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any other accessories you may need for example, seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage or the possibility of transferring it to the aircraft with an adapted cart. If you're going to transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, try to take a direct flight which will reduce the number of times your equipment will be moved between different locations.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment along with your checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment is damaged, you must take a picture of it before you leave the airport and immediately notify the airline.