Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to take into consideration. The staff at the airport and at the airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions and battery type, as well as how to use it.
Make sure you have this information ready prior to your trip to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that meet the requirements for air travel.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and safely stowed on planes. The FAA will approve them for travel on planes, and they can be kept under the plane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to maneuver on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration stripes, roads that are muddy or brick. They could also have a patented power drive system that permits them to move in tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the gate to board. It is essential to contact the airline prior to your departure to ensure they are aware of any specific needs and confirm that they will be able to accommodate them. Certain airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to the time of departure, which is especially important during busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their aircrafts to allow the stowage and storage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is not large enough and is first come, first serve. They also require that any extra batteries be checked 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 unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also request that you check-in an hour before your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask to complete 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 secure and comfortable travel. These power chairs can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline guidelines for battery size and handling, as well as stowage. If you are planning to travel with your airline of choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist in planning your trip and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Some airlines ask that you take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed, and that it is placed upright.
Depending on the airline you travel with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, your address, your number, and your wheelchair model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment in case it should become lost or damaged during your trip. You might also consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which aid you in staying in your wheelchair while you travel with airline and airport personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure proper stowage of your equipment is completed. Being earlier than that is even better if possible especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This lightweight electric wheelchair allows you to arrive early and allows ample time for the airline representative to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you travel and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during your flight. This will give you leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for any damages. You should also consider bringing cushions for your seats to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as it can be for you. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights lasting over an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
The procedure of boarding an airplane with an click here electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline can be a daunting task. However, with proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, flying using your electric chair is feasible.
Contact an airline representative prior to making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the best direction, regardless of whether you prefer to get your seat at the ticket counter attendant controlled electric power wheelchair uk or at the gate. In either case, it is recommended that you arrive at least an hour before your flight. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it is properly stored for your trip.
Depending on the type of power chair you have, it may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. In this situation it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the table to aid airline employees who handle your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair, like the owner's manual as well as warranty information. You should also remove any removable accessories and ensure that all controls work before you leave for the airport.
Once you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra fees for stowing assistive devices such as electric chairs. This is a wonderful benefit for those with disabilities since it allows them to save money.
Once the plane is in the air at the airport, an airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit into the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you will be able to disembark, and your power wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as possible, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It might be difficult to travel in an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines you carer controlled electric wheelchair can have fun exploring new destinations. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if not comfortable moving around in your chair, you will never enjoy the freedom that travel affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for people who suffer from mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stress-inducing for you, but it is important to follow the guidelines of your airline for the transportation and storage of your chair on board the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to inquire about their policy on power chairs and to ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow passengers to bring an electric wheelchair on your trip as you've prepared it for travel. Certain airlines may require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and some will need to have a doctor's recommendation on file prior to being able electric wheelchairs uk to allow you to fly using your motorized chair. Some airlines will also require you to take apart the battery-powered component of your wheelchair and place it in a protective case.
Get to the airport at minimum two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, including your owner's manual or instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up check-in process and help avoid confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
If you are at the airline ticket counter or gate, be sure to communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Explain your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you may need for example, seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be placing your wheelchair in a special cart or checking it for storage. If you're taking a transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, make sure to make a direct flight which will minimize the number of times that your equipment is moved between various locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo compartment with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging additional fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment arrives damaged, make sure you take a photograph prior to leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.