10 Unexpected Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Tips
10 Unexpected Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Tips
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to take into consideration. The staff at the airport and airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair, battery type, and how to use it.
Make sure you have these details ready before you go to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that comply with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and stowed securely on airplanes. The FAA will approve them for use on flights, and they can be stored in the airplane as checked baggage. They will also be able maneuver on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration stripes, bricks or muddy roads. They can also be equipped with a unique drive system that permits them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate for boarding. It is however important to contact them ahead of 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 the departure time you have scheduled This is crucial during busy travel periods.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is limited and on a first-come, first-serve basis. The federal regulations also demand that all extra batteries be checked with the wheelchair or scooter. They must be disconnected unless they are specifically designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also require that you check in one hour prior to your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get assembly/disassembly information and other helpful details about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to provide a safe and convenient way to travel. They can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines regarding battery size and handling, as well as stowage. If you're planning to travel with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These experts can assist you in planning your travel plans and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide 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 battery's terminals are not exposed and that it is safely stored upright.
Depending on the airline you use depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, address, your telephone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it is stolen or mishandled during your journey. You may also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will aid you in staying in your wheelchair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. Being earlier than that is even better if possible, especially during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This allows you to arrive early and allows plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you travel to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you ability to seek compensation from the here airline for any damages. Consider bringing along a seat cushion to make the trip as comfortable as you can. Using a seat cushion is particularly important for flights that last over an hour, as it reduces the pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, getting on a plane is an intimidating experience. Air travel with a power chair is feasible with proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Before booking your flight, talk to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the best direction, regardless of whether you prefer to get your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it is recommended to arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to check your equipment and make sure that it will be safely towed for your journey.
Depending on the model of your power chair It may be necessary for you to disassemble it prior to it is transported. If this is the case, it is helpful to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly in order to aid the airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as 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 to ensure all of the controls are in working order.
When you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and then stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge you extra to store assistive devices, such as electric chairs. This is a wonderful benefit for people with disabilities, since it allows them to save money.
A representative from the airline will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can be able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft when the plane arrives. After disembarking, your wheelchair will be returned to you at the shortest possible location to the door of the aircraft or at the jetbridge or at the gate.
A trip with an electric wheelchair can seem daunting, but with the right planning and adherence to guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new destinations easily. It is crucial to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair, you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for those who have mobility issues. If you're using a wheelchair or a scooter could make your trip more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's policies regarding taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline in advance to learn about their policies regarding power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Most airlines allow passengers to bring an electric wheelchair on your flight as provided it's prepared for travel. Some airlines require that you discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a doctor's letter before they will allow you to travel with your electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also demand that you remove the battery powered portion of your wheelchair, and place it in an enclosure that is protected.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to departure. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, like your owner's manual or assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid to the airport. This will speed up check-in process and avoid confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
When you reach the ticket counter of your airline or gate, be sure you be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide the type of wheelchair you have and any necessary accessories like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be storing your wheelchair in a separate cart or examining it for stowage. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book an direct flight to cut down on the number times your equipment is moved between places.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane it will be stored in the cargo compartment, just like checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair like they do with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, be sure to take a photograph before leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.