10 Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Tricks Experts Recommend
10 Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Tricks Experts Recommend
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to take into consideration. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you numerous questions about your chair's dimensions, battery type and how it should be handled.
Make sure you have these details prepared before you travel to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and stowed safely on airplanes. They typically come with an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be tucked under the plane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to navigate on rough surfaces like deceleration stripes, gravel, brick or muddy road. They may also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending that allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the boarding gate. It is essential to contact the airline in advance to ensure they are aware of any specific requirements and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate these requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to the time of departure This is particularly important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes that allows for the stowage of a wheelchair or mobility scooter. This space is limited and operated on a first-come, first-serve basis. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair, because federal regulations require they must be removed from the device unless the chair is equipped with a safe design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require that you check in an hour prior to your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent information regarding your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed for comfortable and safe travel. These power chairs can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines regarding battery size handling, stowage, and handling. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines ask that you take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is secured in an upright position.
Depending on your airline or airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following details such as your name address, address, phone number and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment in case it should become lost or damaged during your travels. You may also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that aid you in staying in your wheelchair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. If you are able, arrive at least two hours earlier than your scheduled departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This lets you check in earlier and gives ample time for the airline representative to assist you in stowing your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair prior to traveling. This can be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you the ability to seek compensation from the airline for damages. You should consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to make the flight as comfortable as you possibly can. The use of a cushion for your seat is especially important when you travel for over an hour, as it reduces the pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
For those who travel with an airline transportable electric wheelchair approved electric wheelchair, getting on a plane could be an intimidating experience. Traveling with a power chair is feasible with right preparation and adherence of 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 help you figure out the best method to check in your chair regardless of whether it's at the counter for tickets or the gate. In either case, arriving one hour prior to your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it's safely stored for your trip.
Based on the model of power chair you have, it may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it is beneficial to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions available to assist airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. Also, take off any removable items and check that all controls work 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 aren't allowed to charging you a fee to stow assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for passengers with disabilities, as it helps them avoid costly expenses.
An airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit down the aisle of the aircraft when the plane lands. Then, you can disembark, and your wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible location to the door of the aircraft or at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
Traveling with an electric wheelchair may seem intimidating, but with proper planning and adhering to guidelines, you can be able to experience the joy of exploring new destinations easily. It is crucial to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair, you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for passengers with mobility issues. If you're using mobility scooters or wheelchairs could make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it is crucial to adhere to the airline's guidelines regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your departure to inquire about their policies and get any questions answered.
Most airlines will allow you to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight as you've prepared it for travel. Some airlines require that you discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a physician's letter before they will allow you to travel with your powered wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require that you remove the battery-powered part of your chair and place it in an enclosure that is protected.
When you arrive at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours before your departure time so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, like your owner manual and any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid, to the airport. This will help speed up the process of checking in and will prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
When you reach the airline ticket counter or gate, be sure to explain your mobility needs clearly. Explain your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you may require for example, seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or the possibility of transferring it to the aircraft with an appropriate cart. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book a direct flight to minimize the number of times your device is moved between locations.
Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo compartment along with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment arrives damaged, you must take a picture of it prior to leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.