Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Tools To Ease Your Day-To-Day Life
Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Tools To Ease Your Day-To-Day Life
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are several things to consider. Airport and airline staff will ask you a lot of questions regarding your chair's dimensions, battery type and how to handle it.
Make sure you have all these details in hand prior to you leave for the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that are compliant with the requirements for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be carried and safely stowed on airplanes. They typically come with an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stowed underneath the plane as checked luggage. In addition, they will be able to move on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or muddy roads. They could also have a patented power drive system that enables them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate to board. However, it is essential to contact them ahead of time to ensure they are aware of your needs and to confirm they can meet your needs. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of your departure time This is particularly important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes for the stowage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. This space is limited and on an initial-come first-serve basis. They also require that any additional batteries be checked as part of the scooter or wheelchair, because federal regulations require they must be removed from the device unless it is equipped with an effective design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also request that you check in an hour before your flight to ensure proper handling of 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 regarding your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to provide the most secure and comfortable way to travel. These power chairs can be folded and comply with airline standards for battery size handling, stowage, and handling. If you are planning to travel with the airline of your preference, you should contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can assist you in planning your travel plans and provide you with the latest information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require you to take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed and that it is placed upright.
Based on your airline depending on your airline, you might be required 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 that it gets lost or is mishandled during your journey. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will assist you in staying in your chair while you travel with airport personnel and airline personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the departure time you have scheduled to ensure that proper stowage of your equipment is done. If possible be there at least two hours earlier than your departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This allows you to check in early and provides plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you leave, take a picture of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage in obtaining compensation for damages from the airline. You should also think about bringing an extra cushion for your seat to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights lasting over an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin preventing soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline can be daunting. However, with the proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, air travel using your electric chair is possible.
Before you book your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They'll be able to help you navigate in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to check-in your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, it is recommended that you arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to examine your equipment and ensure that it will be stowed safely to be ready for your trip.
Based on the power chair you have, it may be necessary to disassemble the chair prior to it is transported. In this case it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the go to help airline personnel who will handle your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any accessories here that can be removed prior to when you leave for the airport and to ensure all of the controls are working properly.
Once you arrive at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the aircraft. The airlines are prohibited from charging you an additional fee to stow assistive devices, such as electric wheelchairs. This is a great feature for people with disabilities, as it helps them save money.
An airline employee can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which will fit on the aisle of the aircraft when the plane arrives. You will then be able to disembark, and your power wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as is possible, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with right planning and following guidelines you can have fun exploring new destinations. It is essential to keep in mind that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair, you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for those who have mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, but it's important to adhere to the policies of your airline regarding the transportation and storage of your chair on the plane. Contact the airline ahead of time to learn about their policies on power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Most airlines will allow passengers to bring an electric wheelchair on your trip as provided it's prepared for travel. Certain airlines may require you to charge the batteries before boarding, and some will need to have a doctor's recommendation in order to allow you to fly using your electric chair. Some airlines will also require you to take apart the battery-powered portion of your chair and put it inside a protective case.
Get to the airport at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your departure. Bring any documentation you might require to the airport, like your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in process and avoid confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
When you reach the ticket counter of your airline or gate, make sure you explain your mobility needs clearly. Be sure to describe the type of wheelchair you have and any other accessories you may require, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or if it will be transferred to the aircraft with an appropriate cart. If you're going to transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, try to book a direct flight, which will minimize the number of times your equipment will be moved between different locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo compartment along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. If your equipment arrives damaged, be sure to take a picture of it before leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.