Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many aspects to take into consideration when traveling with an electric chair. The staff at the airport and at the airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair, battery type, and how to use it.
Be sure to have all of this information at hand before you head to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that meet air travel regulations.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are able to be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for use on flights and they can be kept in the airplane as checked baggage. In addition, they will be able to move on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips brick or muddy roads. They may also be equipped with a unique drive system that allows them to maneuver 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 important to call the airline ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate them. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of your departure time, which is especially important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes that allows for the stowage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is limited and operated on a first-come, first-serve basis. They also require that any extra batteries be checked as part of the scooter or wheelchair, since federal regulations require that they are disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a safe design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when you bring electric wheelchairs or scooters 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 ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful information regarding your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to provide a safe and convenient method of travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold up and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling, and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can help you plan your travel plans and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines ask that you take the wheelchair's battery out of the way to ensure safety and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is safely stowed in a upright position.
Depending on the airline you fly with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, your address, your number, and the wheelchair model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it should become lost or mishandled during your trip. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will assist you in staying in your seat during transfers with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
You should arrive at at minimum two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that the proper storage of your equipment is done. Being earlier than that is even power chairs uk better if possible especially during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and gives the representative of the airline plenty of time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair prior to travel. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will help you in pursuing compensation for any damages from the airline. Consider bringing along cushions to make the flight as comfortable as you possibly can. Seat cushions are particularly important when you travel for more than an hour. They can reduce pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those who travel with an airline approved electric wheelchair, getting on a plane is an intimidating experience. However, with proper preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, traveling with your power electric wheelchair heavy duty chair is attainable.
Before booking your flight, talk 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 ticket counter or the gate. In any case, it is recommended to arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure that it is properly and properly stored for your trip.
Based on the model of chair you own, it may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. In this instance, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the table to aid airline employees who handle your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair, such as the owner's manual as well as warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable items prior to you go 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 plane. The airlines are not allowed to charging you an additional fee to stow assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is a great feature for passengers with disabilities, since it allows them to avoid unnecessary expenses.
An airline employee will be able transfer you click here from your powered wheelchair to one that will fit on the aisle of the aircraft when the plane arrives. You will then be able to disembark, and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as is possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new destinations. It is essential to keep in mind that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to travel with the freedom it offers.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for people who suffer from mobility issues. If you have an electric or wheelchair can make your experience more enjoyable. However, it's crucial to adhere to the airline's policies regarding taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to find out their policy on power chairs and to ask any questions.
Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, so long as you prepare it properly for travel. Some airlines may require you to charge the batteries before boarding, and some will need to have a medical note on file prior to being able to let you fly with your motorized chair. Some airlines may also demand that you remove the battery-powered part of your chair and then place it in an enclosure that is protected.
When you arrive at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours before your scheduled departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's also more info a good idea to bring any documentation, including the owner's manual as well as any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and avoid confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the counter for tickets to airline or at the gate, be sure to explain your mobility needs clearly. Be sure to describe the type of wheelchair you have and any other accessories you may require like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be keeping your wheelchair in a specific cart or checking it for storage. If you're transferring to the plane with your electric wheelchair, try to make a direct flight which will minimize the number of times your equipment will be transferred between different locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair like they do with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, you must take a photograph before leaving the airport and immediately inform the get more info airline.