10 Things Everyone Gets Wrong About Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
10 Things Everyone Gets Wrong About Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several things to consider when traveling with an electric chair. The airport staff and at the airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair, battery type, and how to handle it.
Make sure you have these details ready before you go to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that comply with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stowed on planes. They typically come with an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be tucked under the plane as checked baggage. They will also be able maneuver on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes brick or muddy road. They may also have a patented power drive system that enables them to navigate in tight spaces, or elevators.
Airlines will assist you for your scooter or wheelchair 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 requirements and confirm that they can meet those requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour before the departure time you have scheduled This is crucial in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes for the stowage of a wheelchair or mobility scooter. This space is limited and operated on an initial-come first-serve basis. The federal regulations also require that any additional batteries be inspected by a scooter or wheelchair. They must be shut off unless they are specifically designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour prior to your flight time so that they can ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. In addition, they ask to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions and other helpful information about your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed for safe and convenient travel. These power chairs can be folded and comply with airline standards for battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These experts can help you plan your travel plans and provide you with the most up-to-date information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals aren't exposed, and that it is placed upright.
Depending on the airline you use depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, address, your number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment in case it gets lost or mishandled during your trip. You may also think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will allow you to remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airport and airline personnel.
You should always arrive at the airport at two hours before the time of departure to ensure the proper stowage of your equipment is done. Being earlier than that is even better if possible especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This lets you check in early and provides plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Before you leave to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you the possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for damages. You should also consider bringing a seat cushion with you, so that the flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Seat cushions are especially important when you travel for more than an hour. They reduce the pressure on your skin preventing soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, getting on a plane could be an overwhelming experience. However, with the proper preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, traveling using your electric chair is possible.
Speak to an airline representative prior to making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best method to check into your seat, whether it is at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, it is advised to arrive at least an hour before your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to check your equipment and ensure it is safely stored for your journey.
Based on the power chair you have It may be necessary to disassemble the chair prior to it is transported. In this situation it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the go to help airline employees who handle power chairs your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable accessories before you travel to the airport and to ensure all the controls are working properly.
Once you arrive at the airport your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and then stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging an additional cost to store assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is a great benefit for passengers with disabilities as it helps them avoid unnecessary costs.
Once the plane is in the air, an airline employee will be able to transfer you from your power wheelchair to one that is able to slide into the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you will be able to get off the plane and your power wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as you can or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It might be difficult to travel in an electric chair, but with the proper planning and following the guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new destinations. It is important to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it offers.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. If you're traveling with an electric or wheelchair could make your experience more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's guidelines regarding bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact your airline before your trip to inquire about their policy and to get any questions answered.
Many airlines will allow you to take a motorized wheelchair with you on your trip as provided it's prepared for travel. Some airlines might require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and some may require you to have a doctor's note on file before they will allow you to fly using your power chair. Some airlines may also demand that you remove the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair, and then place it in a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. It's important to bring any documentation, like your owner manual and any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and can prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
On arrival at the ticket counter or at the gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any accessories you might require for example, sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether 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, book an express flight to reduce the number times your equipment is moved between locations.
Once your wheelchair is in the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment, just like checked luggage. 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 before leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.