Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are several aspects to be considered. Airport and airline staff will ask you numerous questions regarding your chair's dimensions and battery type as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have these details ready prior to your trip to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be carried and safely stowed on airplanes. They will typically have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to maneuver on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes bricks or muddy roads. They may also have an exclusive power drive system that allows them to navigate in tight spaces, or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the gate to board. It is however important to contact them ahead of time to ensure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet those needs. Some airlines require that you 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 planes that allows for the stowage and storage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited and on a first-come, first-serve basis. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair, since federal regulations require that they be disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with a safe design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also request that you check-in an hour before your flight so that they can ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful information about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure comfortable and safe travel. These chairs are designed to fold up and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling, and storage. If you're planning to travel with your airline of preference, you should contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist you in planning your itinerary and give you the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Some airlines ask that you remove your wheelchair's battery to ensure safety and put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals aren't exposed, and it is stored upright.
Depending on the airline you use depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, your address, your telephone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it gets lost or is damaged during your travels. You may also want to look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will allow you to remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport 2 hours before your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment storage. If possible, arrive earlier than two hours before your departure time. This is especially crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This lets you check-in early and gives the representative of the airline plenty of time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair prior to traveling. This can be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you the ability to seek compensation from the airline in case of damages. You should also think about bringing a seat cushion with you, so that the flight is as comfortable as it can be for you. A seat cushion is particularly important for flights that will last longer than an hour, because this will minimize the pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline can be intimidating. But, with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, air travel with your power chair is attainable.
Before you book your flight, speak to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can guide heavy duty electric wheelchairs you on the best method to check-in your chair, whether it is at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it is recommended to arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This gives the airline ample time to inspect your equipment and ensure it is safely stored for your trip.
Depending on the kind of power chair you have It could be required to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it is beneficial to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to help the airline employees handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair. This includes 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, here and to make sure all of the controls are functioning properly.
Once you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra for the stowing of assistive devices like electric chairs. This is a great benefit for those with disabilities since they can avoid unnecessary costs.
A representative from the airline can transfer you from your powered electric wheelchair price wheelchair to a wheelchair which will fit on the aisle of the aircraft when the plane arrives. After disembarking, your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the shortest possible location to the door of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric chair can be intimidating, but with proper planning and adherence to guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the thrill of exploring new destinations without difficulty. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you are uncomfortable in your chair, you will never be able to enjoy the freedom that travel affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be extremely stressful for people who suffer from mobility issues. If you have an electric or wheelchair can make your trip more enjoyable. However, website it's essential to follow the airline's guidelines regarding bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline in advance to find out their policy regarding power chairs and to ask any questions.
Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized chair for your flight, as long as you prepare it correctly for travel. Some airlines require that you charge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a doctor's letter to allow you to fly with your electric wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require you to remove the battery-powered component of your chair and put it in a protective case.
When you arrive at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours prior to your departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. Bring any documentation you might require to the airport, like your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will help speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
If you are at the ticket counter of your airline or at the gate, be sure to explain your mobility needs clearly. Explain your wheelchair and any other accessories you might require for example, seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair for stowage or if it will be transferred to the plane using an adapted cart. If you're transferring to the plane with your electric wheelchair, try to make a direct flight which will minimize the amount of times your equipment will be moved between different locations.
When your check here wheelchair is loaded on the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment, just like 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, be sure to take a picture of it before you leave the airport and immediately inform the airline.