5 Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Lessons From The Pros
5 Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Lessons From The Pros
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are several things to take into consideration. The staff at the airport and at the airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information at hand before you travel to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with the air travel regulations.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and stowed securely on airplanes. The FAA will allow them to be used for use on flights, and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. They will also be able maneuver on rough surfaces such as deceleration stripes, gravel, bricks or muddy roads. They may also have a patented power drive system that enables them to move in tight spaces or lifts.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the gates for boarding. It is however important to contact them ahead of time to ensure they are aware of your requirements and confirm that they can meet those needs. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour before your departure time which is essential during busy travel periods.
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 it's first come first served. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair, as federal regulations require that they be disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a secure design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before taking an electric wheelchair or scooter on their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour prior to your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions as well as other useful information about your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to provide the most secure and comfortable way to travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold up and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling, and stowage. If you are planning to travel with the airline of your 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 up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines require you to remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is secured in a upright position.
Depending on the airline you use or airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following details: your name address, address, phone number and model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment in case it gets lost or damaged during your trip. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will help you remain in your chair during transfers with airport personnel and airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure to ensure proper equipment storage. If you can you can arrive earlier than two hours before your departure time. This is particularly crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This lets you arrive early and allows plenty of time for the airline representative to assist you in stowing your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair prior to travel. This will serve as proof if your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you the ability to seek compensation from the airline for damages. Consider bringing along cushions to make your flight as comfortable as you possibly can. Seat cushions are especially important for flights that last more than an hour. They can reduce pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is accepted by the airline can be intimidating. Air travel with a power chair is possible with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, speak to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best method to check into your seat regardless of whether it's at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it's advised to arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to check your equipment and make sure that it is safely stored to be ready for your trip.
Based on the power chair you have, it may be necessary for you to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it's important to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions in order to aid the airline employees handling your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair, such as the owner's manual as well as warranty information. Also, remove any removable accessories and check whether all controls function before you depart for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and stowed. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you an additional cost to store assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is a great feature for people with disabilities, since it allows them to avoid costly expenses.
When the plane lands, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit in the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you can disembark, and your wheelchair is returned to you at the nearest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines, you can enjoy exploring new locations. It is important to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair, you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for people who suffer from mobility issues. If you're using an electric or wheelchair could make your experience more enjoyable. However, it is essential to follow the airline's policies regarding taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline ahead of time to learn about their policies on power chairs, and to inquire about any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring an electric chair on your flight, so long as you prepare it for travel. Some airlines might require you to recharge the batteries prior to boarding and some will require you to have a doctor's recommendation in order to allow you to fly with your electric chair. Some airlines may also require you to disassemble the battery-powered part of your chair and then place it in a protective case.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, including your owner manual and any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid, to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and can help avoid confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.
If you are at the ticket counter of your airline or gate, make sure to explain your mobility needs clearly. Explain your wheelchair and any accessories you might require for example, seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be storing your wheelchair in a separate cart or checking it for stowage. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you bariatric electric wheelchair book a direct flight to minimize the number times your equipment is moved between places.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo compartment along 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 picture of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.