Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many things you should consider when traveling with an electric chair. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you numerous questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have these details ready before you go to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that comply with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and stowed safely on planes. The FAA will approve them for use on flights and they can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. They can also move on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes brick or muddy road. They may 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. However, it is important to contact them ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of your needs and to confirm that they are able to meet those needs. Certain airlines require you to arrive one hour prior to your scheduled departure time which is essential during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of a mobility scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited and operates on a first-come, first-serve basis. Federal regulations also require that all batteries added to the system be checked with the scooter or wheelchair. They must be shut off unless they are specifically designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask that you check in an hour before your flight, so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent information regarding your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure comfortable and safe travel. They can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline standards for battery size and handling, as well as stowage. If you plan to travel with the airline of your choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety purposes and place it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is secured in a upright position.
Depending on the airline you use depending on your airline, you might be required to label your wheelchair with the following information such as your name address, address, phone number and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it is lost or damaged during your travels. You may want to buy aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will assist you in staying in your chair while you travel with airport personnel and airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to the departure time you have scheduled to ensure that the proper stowage of your equipment is accomplished. Being earlier than that is even better especially during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This lets you check-in early and gives the representative of the airline plenty of time to help you stow your chair.
Before you leave and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during the flight. This will give you possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for damages. You should also think about bringing cushions for your seats so that your journey is as comfortable as it can be for you. Using a seat cushion is particularly important for flights that will last over an hour, as this will minimize pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
If you more info are traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, getting on a plane is an here intimidating experience. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is feasible with proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Before booking your flight, talk to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They will be able to guide you in the best direction, regardless of whether you prefer to get your seat at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it is advised to arrive at least one hour before your flight. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it is properly and properly stored to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the model of your power chair It could be necessary for you to disassemble it prior to transport. In this situation it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the go to help airline personnel handling your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair, like the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable accessories before you travel to the airport and also to ensure that all of the controls are in working order.
Once you arrive at the airport, your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and then stowed. Airlines are not allowed to charge you extra to store assistive devices, such as power chairs. This is an excellent benefit for people who have disabilities, as it allows them to avoid unnecessary costs.
A representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit down the aisle of the aircraft once the plane arrives. Then, you will be able to disembark, and your powered wheelchair will click here be returned to you close to the aircraft door as is possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with the proper planning and following the guidelines you can have fun exploring new places. It is essential to keep in mind that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to travel with the freedom it offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for people with mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, but it's important to adhere to the guidelines of your airline for bringing and stowing your chair on board the plane. Contact the airline in advance to website inquire about their policy regarding power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Many airlines will allow passengers to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight, so long as it's properly prepared for travel. Certain airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to taking off and others will need a doctor's letter prior to allowing get more info you to travel with your powered wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered part of your chair and then place it in a case 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. Bring any documentation you might require to the airport, including your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will speed up check-in process and avoid confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
On arrival at the airline's ticket counter or gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Explain your wheelchair 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 a specialized cart. If you're taking a transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, try to take a direct flight which will cut down on the number of times that your equipment will be moved between various locations.
Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. Take a photograph of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.