Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair 101:"The Complete" Guide For Beginners
Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair 101:"The Complete" Guide For Beginners
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are several aspects to be considered. The staff at the airport and at the airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to handle it.
Be sure to have this information at hand before you leave for the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that meet the regulations for air travel.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stowed on planes. The FAA can approve them for use on flights and they can be kept under the plane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to navigate on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes brick or muddy road. They could also be equipped with a patent-pending power drive system that allows them to move in tight spaces or lifts.
Airlines will provide assistance with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate to board. However, it is important to contact them ahead of time to make sure they are aware of your needs and confirm that they can meet your needs. Certain airlines require you to be at least an hour before your departure time This is crucial in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. This space is limited and on an initial-come first-serve basis. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair as federal regulations require that they be disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a secure design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour prior to your flight time so that they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions as well as other useful details about your mobility or power chair. 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 standards for battery size handling, stowage, and handling. If you're planning to fly with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist you in planning your travel plans and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your chair for safety purposes and place it into a carryon bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is secured in an upright position.
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 phone number, and the wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event that it gets lost or is mishandled during your journey. You may also want to look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will aid you in staying in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. Being earlier than that is even better if possible, especially during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This allows you to check in earlier and gives ample time for the airline representative 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 wheelchair is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for any damages. Consider bringing along cushions to make your flight as comfortable as you possibly can. A seat cushion is particularly important for flights that will last more than an hour, since this will minimize pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline may be daunting. Air travel with a power chair is feasible with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to find out more about their 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's recommended that you arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This gives the airline ample time to examine your equipment and ensure it will be safely towed for your trip.
Depending on the model of your power chair, it may be necessary for you to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it's important to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions available to assist staff of the airline handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. Also, take off any removable items and make sure that all controls work before you leave for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the airplane. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra fees to store assistive devices, such as electric chairs. This is a great feature for passengers with disabilities, since it allows them to save money.
When the plane lands, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to fit down the aircraft aisle. You will then be able to board the plane, and your power wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
Traveling with an electric wheelchair can seem intimidating, but with proper planning and adhering to the guidelines, you can be able to experience the joy of exploring new places with ease. It is essential to keep in mind that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair, you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for people who have mobility issues. If you're using mobility scooters or wheelchairs could make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's guidelines regarding bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to inquire about their policy regarding power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to take a motorized wheelchair with you on your trip as provided it's prepared for travel. Certain airlines might require you to charge the batteries prior to boarding and some may require you to have a doctor's recommendation in order to let you fly with your power chair. Some airlines may also require electric power chair you to disassemble the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair and place it in a protective case.
When you arrive at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, such as your owner's manual or assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will speed up check-in process and avoid confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the airline's ticket counter or gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Explain the kind of wheelchair you own and any necessary accessories like cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or the possibility of transferring it to the aircraft with an appropriate cart. If you're going to transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, you should try to make a direct flight which will reduce the number of times that your equipment is moved between different locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo area along with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. Take a photograph of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.