Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many things to consider when traveling with an electric chair. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you a lot of questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type as well as how it should be handled.
Be sure to have these details in hand prior to you leave for the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that comply with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline approved outdoor electric wheelchair -
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Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines can be safely transported and stored on planes. They usually have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel and can be tucked under the plane as checked luggage. They'll also be able to navigate on rough surfaces such as deceleration stripes, gravel, brick or muddy road. They can also be equipped with a unique drive system which allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the gates for boarding. However, it is important to contact them prior to time to ensure they are aware of your needs and to confirm that they are able to meet those requirements. Some airlines require that you arrive one hour prior to your departure time This is crucial during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. This space is limited and operates on the basis of first-come-first-serve. The federal regulations also require that all extra batteries be checked by the scooter or wheelchair. They must be removed unless they are designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when taking an
attendant controlled electric wheelchair scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour before your flight to ensure 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 details about your
heavy duty power chair wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed for comfortable and safe travel. They can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline standards for battery size handling, stowage, and handling. If you plan to travel with the airline of your choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can help you plan your travel itinerary and provide you with the latest information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide you with assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety. You can then put it into a carryon bag. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is secured in a straight position.
Based on your airline depending on your airline, you might be required to label your wheelchair with the following information: your name address, number and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event that it is stolen or mishandled on your trip. You might also think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that help you remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment storage. Arriving earlier than this is even better particularly during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and provides plenty of time for the airline representative to assist you with stowing your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair before you travel. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you ability to seek compensation from the airline for any damages. You should also consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat so that your journey is as comfortable as possible for you. The use of a cushion for your seat is particularly important when you travel for more than an hour, since this will minimize pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that has been accepted by the airline can be daunting. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is possible with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, speak to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best method to check into your seat, whether it is at the ticket counter or the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour prior to your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure it is safely stowed for your journey.
Based on the model of chair you own, it may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. In this instance it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the go to help airline employees who handle your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. You should also take off any removable items and make sure that all controls are functioning before you leave for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the plane. The airlines are prohibited from charging an additional fee to stow assistive devices, such as power wheelchairs. This is a great feature for people with disabilities, since it allows them to avoid unnecessary expenses.
Once the plane is in the air at the airport, an airline employee will be able to transfer you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to slide in the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you will be able to board the plane, and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as possible in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
A trip with an electric wheelchair can seem daunting, but with careful planning and adhering to guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new places with ease. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if not comfortable moving around in your chair, you'll not be able to fully take advantage of the freedom that travel offers.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for those who suffer from mobility problems. If you're using a wheelchair or a scooter can make your trip more enjoyable. However, it's crucial to adhere to the airline's guidelines for bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with a
portable power chair chair, be sure to contact your airline before your trip to inquire about their policy and to get any questions answered.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair for your flight, as that you prepare it properly for travel. Some airlines require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will require a doctor's letter to allow you to travel with your electric wheelchair. Some airlines will also require you to disassemble the battery-powered part of your wheelchair and place it in a protective case.
Once you're 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 the flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, including your owner's manual or instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will make it easier for the process of checking in and will prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
When you arrive at the ticket counter of your airline or gate, make sure to communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Explain the kind of wheelchair you own and any accessories you require like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or if it will be transferred to the aircraft using an adapted cart. If you're going to transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, try to make a direct flight which will minimize the number of times that your equipment is moved between locations.
Once your wheelchair is in the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment along with your checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment is damaged, you must take a photograph before you leave the airport and immediately notify the airline.