The Reasons Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Is More Difficult Than You Think
The Reasons Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Is More Difficult Than You Think
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to consider. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you a lot of questions regarding the dimensions of your chair, battery type and how to handle it.
Be sure to have all this information in your possession prior to you head to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that are compliant with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA will approve them for use on flights, and they can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. Additionally they'll be able to move on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or muddy roads. They could also have a patent-pending power drive system that enables them to maneuver in tight spaces or lifts.
Airlines will provide assistance with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter to the gate to board. However, it is important to contact them prior to time to ensure that they are aware of your needs and to confirm that they are able to meet those requirements. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour before your departure time, which is important 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 an initial-come first-serve basis. They also require that any additional 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 secure design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also request to check-in at least an hour prior to your flight to ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. Additionally, they request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions and other helpful information about your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to provide an efficient and safe way to travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold, and they conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the latest information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety purposes and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed and that it is placed upright.
Depending on your airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following details: your name, address, phone number, and model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment in case it should become lost or damaged during your trip. You may want to buy aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to help you remain in your seat during transfers with airport personnel and airline personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment storage. Being earlier than that is even better if possible especially during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This allows you to check in earlier and gives ample time for the airline representative to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you leave, take a picture of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you the ability to seek compensation from the airline for damages. You should also think about bringing cushions for your seats to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Using a seat cushion is especially important for flights that last more than an hour, since it reduces the pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been accepted by the airline can be a daunting task. However, with proper preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, traveling using your electric chair is attainable.
Before booking your flight, speak to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best method to check-in your chair regardless of whether it's at the counter for tickets or the gate. In either case, it's recommended that you arrive at least one hour prior to your flight. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and make sure that it is safely stored for your journey.
Depending on the type of chair you own It may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. In this case, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to assist the airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any detachable items prior to you go to the airport and also to ensure that all controls are working properly.
Once you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging you an additional cost to store assistive devices, such as power wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for those with disabilities as it allows them to save money.
A representative from the airline will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which can fit down the aisle of the aircraft when the plane lands. Then, you can disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the shortest possible location to the aircraft door, either at the top rated electric wheelchairs jetbridge or the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new destinations. It is important to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair, you won't be able to travel with the freedom it offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for those who suffer from mobility problems. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stress-inducing for you, but it's essential to follow the guidelines of your airline for the transportation and storage of your chair on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to find out their policy on power chairs, and to ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair for your flight, as that you prepare it properly to travel. Some airlines require that you discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a doctor's letter to allow you to fly with your power wheelchair. Some airlines may also require that you take down the battery powered portion of your chair and then place it in an enclosure that is protected.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your departure. Bring any documents you require to the airport, such as your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will make it easier for the check-in process and can prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
When you arrive at the counter for tickets or gate, make sure to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Be sure to describe the kind of wheelchair you're using and any other accessories you may require like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair for stowage or the possibility of transferring it to the aircraft with a specialized cart. If you're taking a transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, you should try to take a direct flight which will minimize the number of times your equipment will be transferred between different locations.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment, just like checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. Take a photo of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.