What Experts In The Field Want You To Know
What Experts In The Field Want You To Know
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are several aspects to be considered. Airport and airline staff will ask you a lot of questions regarding the dimensions of your chair, battery type and how it should be handled.
Make sure you have this information ready prior to your trip to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that meet the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stowed on planes. They usually have a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be tucked under the plane as checked baggage. Additionally, they will be able to move on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or muddy roads. They may also be equipped with a unique drive system which allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the boarding gates. It is however important to contact them ahead of time to make sure they are aware of your needs and to confirm that they are able to meet those needs. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour before your scheduled departure which is crucial during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of a wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is limited and it's first come, first serve. The 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 avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to bringing electric wheelchairs or scooters aboard their flights. They also ask that you check in one hour prior to your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful details about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to offer the most secure and comfortable way to travel. These power chairs can be folded and comply with airline guidelines for battery size and handling, as well as stowage. If you are planning to fly with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can help you plan your travel itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety. You can then put it into a carryon bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed and it is stored upright.
Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, your address, your phone number, and your wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it is lost or damaged during your travels. You might also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which help you remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airline and airport personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better if possible, especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This lets you check-in early and allows the airline representative ample time to help you stow your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair prior to travel. This will serve as proof if heavy duty electric wheelchairs your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for damages from the airline. It is also advisable to bring cushions for your seats so that your journey is as relaxing as possible for you. Using a seat cushion is especially important for flights that will last over an hour, as it will reduce pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline can be intimidating. Traveling with a power chair is achievable with right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Before booking your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best method to check into your seat regardless of whether it's at the counter for tickets or the gate. In any case, it is advised to arrive at least an hour before your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to check your equipment and ensure that it is safely stored for your trip.
Depending on the type of chair you own It may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. In this instance it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the go to help airline personnel who will handle your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable accessories before you travel to the airport, and to make sure all the controls are functioning properly.
When you arrive at an airport the electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and stowed. The airlines are not allowed to charging an additional fee to stow assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is a great benefit for those with disabilities as it helps them avoid costly expenses.
When the plane lightweight wheelchair electric lands at the airport, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your power wheelchair to one that can fit down the aircraft aisle. Then, you will be able to disembark, and your power wheelchair will be returned to website you closest to the plane's door as you can or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
A trip with an electric wheelchair may seem intimidating, but with proper planning and adhering to the guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the thrill of exploring new places without difficulty. It is important to remember that if you do not feel comfortable attendant controlled electric power wheelchair in your chair, you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it offers.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for those who have mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stressful for you, however it's important to adhere to the policies of your airline regarding bringing and stowing your chair on the airplane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact your airline prior to your departure to ask about their policy and ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to take a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight, so you've prepared it best electric wheelchairs for travel. Some airlines require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a physician's letter before they will allow you to fly with a electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered portion of your chair and then place it inside a protective case.
When you arrive at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, like your owner's manual or instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will make it easier for the check-in process and can prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
When you reach the airline ticket counter or at the gate, be sure to explain your mobility needs clearly. Be sure to describe the kind of wheelchair you own and any accessories you require like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or the possibility of transferring it to the plane using a specialized cart. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book a direct flight to minimize 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 as checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you additional fees for the storage of your scooter or wheelchair the same way they would with your luggage. Take a picture of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.