Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are many aspects to be considered. Airport and airline staff will ask you many questions regarding the dimensions of your chair, battery type and how to handle it.
Make sure you have these details ready before you go to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with the air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and safely stowed on airplanes. The FAA will allow them to be used for travel on planes, and they can be kept in the airplane as checked baggage. They can also move on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration stripes roads that are muddy or brick. They could also be equipped with an exclusive power drive system that allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the boarding gates. It is essential to call the airline ahead of time to make sure they are aware of any specific needs and to confirm that they can meet the requirements. Some airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to your scheduled departure, which is especially important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage and storage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. This space is limited and is first come, first served. The federal regulations also demand that any additional batteries be inspected by a wheelchair or scooter. They must be shut off unless they are designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to bringing electric wheelchairs or scooters on their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour before your flight so that they can ensure proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent information about your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to provide an efficient and safe method of travel. They can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and stowage. If you plan to fly 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 travel itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide you with assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines will require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety and put it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is safely stowed in a upright position.
Depending on the airline you use or airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following information such as your name, address, phone number and model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment if it gets lost or mishandled during your trip. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will allow you to remain in your seat during transfers with airport personnel and airline personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at two hours before the time of departure to ensure the proper stowage of your equipment is done. If possible you can arrive earlier than two hours prior to your departure time. This is especially important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This allows you to check in early and gives the representative of the airline plenty of time to help you stow your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair prior to travel. This can be used as proof in the event that your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage in pursuing compensation for the damages from the airline. You should also consider bringing a seat cushion with you, so that the flight is as relaxing as possible for you. The use of a cushion for your seat is especially important when you travel for over an hour, as it will reduce pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
For those who travel with an airline approved electric wheelchair, the process of boarding a plane can be an overwhelming experience. Traveling with a power chair is achievable with proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, speak to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They can guide you in the right direction, regardless of whether you prefer to make your seat at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, it is check here recommended to arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This gives the airline ample click here time to inspect your equipment and ensure it will be safely towed to be ready for read more your trip.
Based on the model of power chair you own, it may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. In this case it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in hand to assist the airline employees who handle your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any accessories that can be removed prior to when you travel to the airport and to ensure all of the controls are working properly.
When you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the airplane. Airlines are not allowed to charge you extra to store assistive devices, like electric chairs. This is a great benefit for those who have disabilities, as it helps them avoid unnecessary costs.
When the plane lands at the airport, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit down the aircraft aisle. You will then be able to get off the plane and your power wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as is possible, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with right planning and following guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new destinations. It is essential to keep in mind that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair, you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be extremely stressful for people who have mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stress-inducing for you, but it's important to adhere to the guidelines of your airline for the transportation and storage of your chair on the airplane. Contact the airline prior to departure to find out their policy on power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Most airlines will allow you to take an electric wheelchair on your trip as provided it's prepared for travel. Some airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will require a doctor's letter prior to allowing you to travel with your electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also require that you remove the battery powered portion of your chair and place it in an enclosure that is protected.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before departure. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, such as your owner's manual or assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
On arrival at the counter for tickets or gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Explain the kind of wheelchair you own and any other accessories you may require, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or if it will be transferred to the plane using an appropriate cart. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book an direct flight to cut down on the amount of times your equipment is moved between locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment, just like checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you extra to store your scooter or wheelchair like they do with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, you must take a photograph before leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.