Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are many aspects to be considered. The staff at the airport and the airline will inquire about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to use it.
Make sure you have this information ready prior to your trip to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that meet the requirements for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and stowed safely 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 gravel, deceleration stripes, roads that are muddy or brick. They could also be equipped with an exclusive power drive system that allows them to navigate in tight spaces, or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate to board. It is essential to contact the airline in advance to ensure that they are aware of any specific requirements and to confirm that they are able to meet the requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour ahead of your scheduled departure This is particularly important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. This space is limited, and it's first come, first served. The federal regulations also require that all batteries added to the system be checked by the scooter or wheelchair. They must be removed unless they are designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to taking an electric wheelchair or scooter aboard their flights. They also request that you check-in an hour before your flight so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask that you complete 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
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure safe and convenient travel. They can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline guidelines for battery size handling, stowage, and handling. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can help you plan your travel plans and provide you with the latest details regarding battery requirements. They can also provide you with instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair 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 stowed upright.
Based on your airline depending on your airline, you might be required to label your wheelchair with the following details: your name address, number and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it is stolen or damaged during your travels. You may want to buy aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will assist you in staying in your seat during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport at two hours before the time of departure to ensure proper stowage of your equipment is accomplished. Being earlier than that is even better, especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. read more This allows you to check in early and provides ample time for the airline representative to assist you electric wheelchair price with the stowing of your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair prior to travel. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will help you in obtaining compensation for damages from the airline. Consider bringing along a seat cushion to make the trip as comfortable as you possibly can. Seat cushions are especially important for flights lasting over an hour. They reduce the pressure on your skin making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, the process of boarding a plane can be an intimidating experience. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is possible with the right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, speak to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They will be able to guide you in the best direction, no matter if you prefer to get your seat at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it is advised to arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This gives the airline ample time to examine your equipment and ensure it will be safely towed for your journey.
Depending on the kind of chair you own, it may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it is important to have clear instructions for assembly read more and disassembly in order to aid the airline employees handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documents 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 travel to the airport, and to make sure all controls are in working order.
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 you extra to store assistive devices, such as power chairs. This is an excellent benefit for those with disabilities as it helps them save money.
An airline employee will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can be able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft once the plane lands. Then, you will be able to board the plane, and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
A trip with an electric wheelchair can seem daunting, but with the right planning and adhering to guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new places easily. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you're wheelchairs electric for sale not comfortable moving around in your chair, you'll never be able to enjoy the freedom that travel affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be very stressful for people with mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, however it is important to follow your airline's policies for the transportation and storage of your chair on the plane. Contact the airline in advance to find out their policy on power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Most airlines allow you to take a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight as you've prepared it for travel. Certain airlines may require you to charge the batteries prior to boarding and some will need to have a medical note on file prior to being able to allow you to fly using your motorized chair. Certain airlines may also require that you take down the battery powered portion of your wheelchair, and place it into a case that is safe.
Once you're at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours before the time of departure so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documentation you may require to the airport, like your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will help speed up the check-in process and make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the ticket counter of your airline or gate, make sure you explain your mobility needs clearly. Explain the type of wheelchair you have and any accessories you require like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be storing your wheelchair in a specific cart or examining it for stowage. If you're going to transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, you should try to book a direct flight, which will reduce the amount of times your equipment will be transferred between different locations.
Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you extra for storing your wheelchair or scooter, like they do with your website luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, you must capture a photo before leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.