What Experts In The Field Would Like You To Know?
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric WheelchairWhen you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are many aspects to be considered. The staff at the airport and the airline will inquire about the dimensions of your chair, battery type, and how to use it.
Be sure to have all these details in hand prior to you leave for the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that comply with the air travel regulations.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are able to be safely transported and stored on planes. They typically come with non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel and can be tucked under the plane as checked luggage. Additionally, they will be able to navigate on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or muddy roads. They may also be equipped with a patented drive system that 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 they can meet those requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive one hour prior to the departure time you have scheduled which is essential in busy 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 operates on the basis of first-come-first-serve. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected in conjunction with the scooter or wheelchair, because federal regulations require they are disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a safe design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also request that you check-in an hour before your flight to ensure 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
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to provide the most secure and comfortable method of travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold up and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling, and storage. If you're planning to travel with the airline of your preference, you should contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can assist you in planning your trip and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines ask that you remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals aren't exposed, and it is stored upright.
Depending on your airline or airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following details: your name, address, phone number and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it gets lost or is mishandled on your trip. You may also consider purchasing aftermarket slings like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which allow you to remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airline and airport personnel.
You should always arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that the proper stowage of your equipment is done. Arriving earlier than this is even better particularly during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This lets you check in early and provides plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Before you leave and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your wheelchair is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage in obtaining compensation for the damages from the airline. You should also think about bringing an extra cushion for your seat, so that the flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights that last more than an hour. They reduce the pressure on your skin preventing soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane is an overwhelming experience. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is feasible with proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Speak to an airline representative prior to making your booking to find read more out more about the policies and procedures. They can help you navigate in the right direction, whether you prefer to make your seat at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it is recommended to arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure that it's safely stored to be ready for your trip.
Based on the power chair you have It could be necessary for you to disassemble it prior to transportation. In this situation it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the go to help airline personnel who will handle your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any detachable accessories before you travel to the airport and to ensure all the controls are functioning properly.
Once you arrive at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the plane. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you an additional cost to store assistive devices, such as electric wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for those with disabilities as they can avoid costly expenses.
After the plane has landed at the airport, 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. Then, you can disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the nearest possible location to the aircraft door, either at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
Traveling with an electric wheelchair may seem daunting, but with the right planning and adherence to guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the thrill of exploring new places with ease. It is important to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair you won't be able to enjoy read more the freedom it affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be extremely stressful for people with mobility issues. If you have a wheelchair or a scooter could make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow the airline's policies regarding bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your departure to inquire about their policy and ask any questions.
Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, so long as you prepare it properly for travel. Some airlines require that you charge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a physician's letter prior to allowing you to travel with your electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also require that you take down the battery-powered part of your wheelchair, and place it in an enclosure that is protected.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours before your departure time so that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to departure. It's important to bring any documentation, including your owner's manual or instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will speed up the check-in and prevent confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
If you are at the airline ticket counter or gate, make sure you communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Provide the type of wheelchair you have and any other accessories you may require like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be keeping your wheelchair in a specific cart read more or checking it for stowage. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book a direct flight to minimize the amount of times your equipment is moved between locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the get more info plane, it will check here be stored in the cargo area along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra to store your scooter or wheelchair, just as they would with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, make sure you take a photograph before you leave the airport and immediately notify the airline.