What Is Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair And How To Use It
What Is Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair And How To Use It
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many things to consider when traveling with an electric chair. The airport staff and the airline will inquire about your chair, its dimensions and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have these details ready prior to your trip to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that comply with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are able to be safely transported and stowed on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for use on flights and they can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore they'll be able to maneuver on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips brick or roads that are muddy. They may also have an exclusive power drive system that permits them to move in tight spaces or lifts.
Airlines will provide assistance with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter to the boarding gate. It is important to contact the airline prior to your departure to make sure they are aware of any specific needs and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate the requirements. Some airlines require you to arrive one hour prior to the departure time you have scheduled, which is important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is limited and is first come, first served. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected in conjunction with the scooter or wheelchair, because federal regulations require they are disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with a secure design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour prior to your flight time so that they can ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other information regarding your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to provide the most secure and comfortable method of travel. These power chairs can be folded and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can assist you in planning your trip and give you the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines require you to take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed, and it is stowed upright.
Depending on the airline you fly with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, address, your phone number, and your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment in case it should become lost or damaged during your travels. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will help you remain in your chair while you travel with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
You should always arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure proper stowage of your equipment is completed. If you can be there at least two hours earlier than the time you plan to depart. This is especially important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This lets you check in early and provides plenty of time for the airline representative to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Before you leave to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your wheelchair is damaged on the flight. This will help you in pursuing compensation for damages from the airline. You should consider bringing cushions to make your flight as comfortable as you possibly can. A seat cushion is particularly important for flights that will last more than an hour, since this will minimize pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those who travel with an approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane is an overwhelming experience. However, with the proper preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, traveling with a power chair is feasible.
Before you book your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They will be able to guide you in the right direction, regardless of whether you prefer to get your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it is advised to arrive at least one hour before your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure it is safely and properly stored for your journey.
Based on the power chair you have It may be necessary for you to disassemble it before transport. In this case, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the go to help airline personnel handling your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair, including the owner's manual and warranty information. Also, remove any accessories that are removable and ensure whether all controls function before leaving for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the plane. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra fees to store assistive devices, such as electric chairs. This is a huge benefit for people with disabilities as it allows them to avoid unnecessary costs.
After the plane has landed in the air, a representative from the airline will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair electric lightweight wheelchair to one that can fit into the aisle of the aircraft. You can then disembark and your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible location to the door of the aircraft or at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
It might be difficult to travel in an electric chair, but with right planning and following guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new destinations. The most important thing to remember is that if you're not comfortable in your chair, you'll never take advantage of the freedom that travel affords.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for those with mobility issues. If you have a wheelchair or a scooter could make your trip more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's guidelines for bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact the airline before your trip to ask about their policy and get any questions answered.
Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, so provided you prepare it correctly for travel. Certain airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a doctor's letter to allow you to travel with your power wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery powered portion of your chair and place it in a case that is safe.
When you arrive at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documents you need to the airport, including your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will speed up the process of checking in and will help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
When you arrive at the counter for tickets to airline or gate, make sure to be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Discuss your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you might require for example, seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or if it will be transferred to the plane using a specialized cart. If you're taking a transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, you should try to make a direct flight which will cut down on the amount of times your equipment will be moved between different locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment along with your checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging additional fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment arrives damaged, you must capture a photo before leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.