Why Everyone Is Talking About Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Right Now
Why Everyone Is Talking About Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Right Now
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are several aspects to be considered. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you numerous questions regarding your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have this information ready before you go to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that are compliant with the requirements for air travel.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and safely stowed on planes. The FAA can approve them for travel on planes and they can be stowed under the plane as checked baggage. Additionally, they will be able to maneuver on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or roads that are muddy. They could also have a patented power drive system that permits them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter until the boarding gate. However, it is essential to contact them ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of your needs and to confirm they can meet those needs. Certain airlines require you to be at least one hour prior to your departure time, which is important during busy travel periods.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes that allows for the stowage of a mobility scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited and operated on the basis of first-come-first-serve. The federal regulations also demand that any additional batteries be checked by the wheelchair or scooter. They must be shut off unless they are designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before bringing an electric wheelchair or scooter on their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour prior to your flight time so that they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful details about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to provide the most secure and comfortable method of travel. These power chairs are made to fold up and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and stowage. If you are planning to fly with your airline of preference, you should contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety purposes and place it into a carryon bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed and that it is safely stowed upright.
Based on your airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following details such as your name, address, phone number, and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it is lost or mishandled during your journey. You might also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will aid you in staying in your wheelchair during transfers with airline and airport personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. If you can be there at least two hours earlier than your scheduled departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This allows you to arrive early and allows plenty of time for the airline representative to assist you with cost of electric wheelchair stowing your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair prior to traveling. This can be used as proof in the event that your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage in obtaining compensation for the damages from the airline. You should also consider bringing a seat cushion with you, so that the flight is as comfortable as possible for you. The use of a cushion for your seat is particularly important when you travel for longer than an hour, because it reduces the pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane could be a daunting prospect. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is possible with the proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best method to check-in your chair, whether it is at the ticket counter or the gate. In either case, it's recommended to arrive at least one hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to check your equipment and ensure that it will be safely towed for your trip.
Depending on the type of power chair you own, it may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. In this instance it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the table to aid airline employees who handle your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any accessories that can be removed prior to when you travel to the airport and also to ensure that all the controls are in working order.
Once you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the aircraft. Airlines are not permitted to charge you extra for the stowing of assistive devices like power chairs. This is an excellent benefit for people who have disabilities, as it helps them avoid costly expenses.
A representative from the airline can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit down the aircraft aisle when the plane arrives. You will then be able to get off the plane and your power wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as possible, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines, you can enjoy exploring new places. The most important thing to remember is that if you are not comfortable moving around in your chair, you'll never be able to enjoy the freedom that traveling provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be extremely stressful for people who have mobility issues. If you have mobility scooters or wheelchairs, it can make your experience more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's guidelines regarding taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline in advance to inquire about their policy on power chairs and to ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight, so provided it's prepared for travel. Certain airlines may require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and some will need to have a medical note in order to let you fly with your power chair. Some airlines will also require you to remove the battery-powered portion of your chair and then place it in a case that is protected.
Once you're at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours before your scheduled departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. Bring any documentation you might require to the airport, such as your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will make it easier for the check-in process and help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
When you reach the airline ticket counter or at the gate, be sure to communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Discuss your wheelchair and any accessories you may need, such as seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be placing your wheelchair in a separate cart or checking it for stowage. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book a direct flight to minimize the amount of times your equipment is moved between different locations.
Once your wheelchair is in the plane it will be stored in the cargo compartment as checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair, just as they would with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, be sure to capture a photo before leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.