Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few things to consider when traveling with a powered chair. The airport staff and airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions and battery type, as well as how to use it.
Make sure you have this information ready prior to your trip to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that meet air travel regulations.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and safely stowed on airplanes. The FAA can approve them for air travel and they can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore they'll be able to maneuver on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips, brick or muddy roads. They may also have an exclusive power drive system that enables them to navigate in tight spaces, or lifts.
Airlines will provide assistance for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate for boarding. It is important to contact the airline in advance to ensure they are aware of any special needs and confirm that they will be able to accommodate them. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour before your scheduled departure time which is essential during busy travel periods.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. This space is limited and operated on a first-come, first-serve basis. The federal regulations also demand that any additional batteries be checked with the wheelchair or scooter. They must be removed unless they are specifically designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to taking an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask 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 airport personnel can gather information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other information regarding your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure comfortable and safe travel. They can be folded and comply with airline guidelines regarding battery size handling, stowage, and handling. If you plan to fly with your airline of choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These experts can help you plan your itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair for safety purposes and place it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is securely tucked away in a straight position.
Depending on the airline you fly with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, address, your telephone number, and the wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event that it is stolen or mishandled during your journey. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will help you remain in your seat during transfers with airport personnel and airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport 2 hours before your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. If you are able be there at least two hours earlier than your scheduled departure time. This is especially important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This allows you to check in early and allows the airline representative ample time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair before you travel. This will serve as proof if your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for damages. It is also advisable to bring an extra cushion for your seat so that your journey is as comfortable as it can be for you. The use of a cushion for click here your seat is particularly important for flights that will last over an hour, as it reduces pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane could be a daunting prospect. However, with proper preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, traveling with a power chair is feasible.
Before you book your flight, speak to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They will be able to guide you in the best direction, no matter if you prefer to get your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour before your flight is suggested. This gives the airline ample time to inspect your equipment and ensure that it will be stowed safely for your trip.
Depending on your power chair, it may be necessary for you to disassemble it before transportation. In this instance it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the go to help airline personnel handling your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair, including the owner's manual as well as warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any detachable accessories before you travel to the airport, and to make sure all the controls are functioning properly.
When you arrive at the here airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the plane. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you a cost to store assistive devices, like power wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for people with disabilities as it helps them avoid costly expenses.
Once the plane is in the air at the airport, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that click here is able to fit down the aircraft aisle. Then, you can disembark, and your wheelchair is returned to you at the nearest possible location to the door of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
A trip with an electric chair can be intimidating, but with proper planning and adhering to guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new locations easily. The most important thing to remember is that if you are not comfortable moving around in your chair, you'll never enjoy the freedom that traveling affords.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for people with mobility problems. If you're using a wheelchair or a scooter could make your trip more enjoyable. However, it is essential to follow the airline's guidelines regarding taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact the airline prior to your travels to ask about their policy and get any questions answered.
Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair for your flight, so that you prepare it correctly to travel. Some airlines require that you discharge the batteries prior get more info to boarding and others will require a doctor's letter before they will allow you to fly with a power wheelchair. Some airlines may also require you to disassemble the battery-powered part of your chair and put it in a case that is protected.
When you arrive at the airport, make sure you arrive at least two hours before your scheduled departure time so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. Bring any documentation you might require to the airport, such as your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will speed up check-in process and avoid confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
Upon arriving at the ticket counter or gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Discuss your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you may need for example, seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or whether it will be transported to the plane using a specialized cart. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book a direct website flight to minimize the number times your equipment is moved between places.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. Take a photograph of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.