10 Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Tips All Experts Recommend
10 Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Tips All Experts Recommend
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many things to consider when traveling with an electric chair. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you many questions about your chair's dimensions, battery type and how to handle it.
Be sure to have all this information in your possession prior to you travel to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that meet the requirements for air travel.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
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 travel on planes and they can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore, they will be able to navigate on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips brick or roads that are muddy. They can also be equipped with a unique drive system that permits them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the gate for boarding. It is essential to contact the airline prior to your departure to ensure that they are aware of any special needs and to confirm that they are able to meet the requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour before the time of departure This is particularly important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is not large enough and is first come, first served. Federal regulations also require that all extra batteries be checked with the scooter or wheelchair. They must be removed unless they are specifically designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask to check-in at least an hour before your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions as well as other useful information about your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure comfortable and safe travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling, and storage. If you plan to travel with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can help you plan your itinerary and provide you with the latest information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety. You can then put it into a carryon bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that the battery is safely stowed in a upright position.
Based on your airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following information including your name address, address, phone number, and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it is stolen or damaged during your travels. You might want to consider purchasing 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 at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that the proper storage of your equipment is done. Being earlier than that is even better particularly during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This lets you check-in early and allows the airline representative plenty of time to help you stow your chair.
Before you travel and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during your flight. This will give you the leverage to pursue compensation from the airline in case of damages. It is also advisable to bring cushions for your seats so that your journey is as comfortable as it can be for you. Cushions for seats are essential for flights that last more than an hour. They will reduce pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline can be intimidating. Air travel with a power chair is possible with the 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 assist you in the best way to check in your chair, whether it is at the ticket counter or the gate. In any case, it is recommended to arrive at least one hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to check your equipment and ensure it will be stowed safely to be ready for your trip.
Depending on your power chair It may be necessary for you to disassemble it before it is transported. In this case it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the table to aid airline personnel handling your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair, including the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable items prior to you travel to the airport and also to ensure that all the controls are functioning properly.
Once you are at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. Airlines are not permitted to charge you extra for the stowing of assistive devices such as power chairs. This is an excellent benefit for those with disabilities as they can avoid costly expenses.
A representative from the airline can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which can be able to fit into the aircraft aisle when the plane lands. Then, you can disembark, and your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the shortest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft or at the jetbridge, or lightweight electric wheelchair at the gate.
Traveling with an electric wheelchair may seem daunting, but with the right planning and adhering to 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 do not feel comfortable in your chair you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be extremely stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. If you're traveling with mobility scooters or wheelchairs can make your experience more enjoyable. However, it is essential to follow the airline's guidelines regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact the airline before your trip 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 properly for travel. Certain airlines might require you to charge the batteries before boarding, and some will need to have a doctor's note on file before they will allow you to fly with your electric chair. Certain airlines may also require that you remove the battery-powered part of your wheelchair, and then place it in an enclosure that is protected.
Once you're at the airport, be 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. Bring any documents you need to the airport, like your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will speed up check-in and prevent confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
Upon arriving at the counter for tickets or gate, make certain to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Explain your wheelchair and any accessories you may require like seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be storing your wheelchair in a specific cart or checking it for storage. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book an express flight to reduce the amount of times your equipment is moved between different locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo compartment with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair just as they would with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, you must capture a photo before you leave the airport and immediately inform the airline.