The Myths And Facts Behind Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
The Myths And Facts Behind Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few aspects to take into consideration when traveling with a powered chair. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you many questions about your chair's dimensions, battery type and how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information ready prior to your trip to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that meet the requirements 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 can approve them for use on flights and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. They will also be able move on rough surfaces like deceleration stripes, gravel, bricks or muddy roads. They may also be equipped with a patented drive system which allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the gate for boarding. It is important to contact the airline prior to your departure to ensure that they are aware of any special needs and confirm that they are able to meet these requirements. Some airlines require you to arrive an hour before your departure time, which is important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes that allows for the stowage of a wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is limited and is first come, first served. The federal regulations also require that all extra batteries be checked by the scooter or wheelchair. They must be disconnected unless they are designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to bringing electric wheelchairs or scooters on their flights. They also request to check-in at least an hour before your flight to ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get assembly/disassembly information and other helpful information about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to provide an efficient and safe way to travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling, and storage. If you're planning to travel with the airline of your choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These experts can assist you in planning your travel itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide you with instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines will require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is securely tucked away in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you fly with depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, your address, your number, and your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment if it gets lost or damaged during your travels. You might also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that allow you to remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airport and airline personnel.
You should always arrive at at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that the proper storage of your equipment is accomplished. If you can be there at least two hours earlier than the time you plan to depart. This is especially important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This allows you to check in early and allows the representative of the airline plenty of time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair before you travel. This can be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will help you to seek compensation for any damages from the airline. You should also think about bringing cushions for your seats, so that the flight is as comfortable as it can be for you. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights that last more than an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that is accepted by the airline can be a daunting task. Air travel with a power chair my mobility scooters is achievable with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Before booking your flight, speak to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the best direction, no matter if you prefer to make your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, it is recommended to arrive at least an hour before your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to inspect your equipment and ensure it is safely stored for your trip.
Depending on the type 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 assembly and disassembly instructions on hand to help the airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any accessories that can be removed prior to when you go to the airport, and to make sure all of the controls are in working order.
When you arrive at the airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and then stowed. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra fees to store assistive devices, like electric chairs. This is an excellent benefit for people with disabilities since it allows them to avoid unnecessary costs.
After the plane has landed at the airport, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to fit in the aisle of the aircraft. 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 wheelchair may seem daunting, but with the right planning and adhering to guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new destinations without difficulty. It is crucial to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to enjoy the freedom it affords.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for people who have mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, however it is important to follow your airline's policies for transporting and stowing your chair on board the plane. Contact the airline in advance to inquire about their policy regarding power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Most airlines will allow you to take a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight, so provided it's prepared for travel. Certain airlines might require you to recharge the batteries prior to boarding and some will need to have a doctor's recommendation on file prior to being able to allow you to fly using your electric chair. Some airlines will also require you to disassemble the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair and place it inside a protective case.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at least two hours before the time of departure to ensure that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before flight. Bring any documents you need to the airport, such as your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will help speed up the check-in process and can make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
On arrival at the counter for tickets or at the gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Discuss your wheelchair and any accessories you might require for example, sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether they will be keeping your wheelchair in a special cart or checking it for stowage. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book an direct flight to cut down on the number of times your device is moved between different locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment, just like checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you additional fees for the storage of your scooter or wheelchair the same way they would with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, be sure to take a picture of it before leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.