How To Tell If You're In The Right Place To Go After Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
How To Tell If You're In The Right Place To Go After Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are many things to take into consideration. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you many questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have this information ready before you go to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that meet the requirements for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines can be safely transported and stored on planes. They typically come with non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel and can be tucked under the plane as checked baggage. Additionally they'll be able to navigate on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or muddy roads. They could also be fitted with a unique drive system that permits them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the boarding gates. It is essential to call the airline ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they are able to meet the requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour before your departure time, which is especially important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes for the stowage and storage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. This space is limited and operated on an initial-come first-serve basis. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected in conjunction with the scooter or wheelchair, as federal regulations require that they are disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with a safe design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask that you check in one hour prior to your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent information about your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed for safe and convenient travel. These power chairs are made to fold, and they comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety purposes and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is safely stowed in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you use depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, your address, your phone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment in case it gets lost or damaged during your trip. You may also consider purchasing aftermarket slings like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will help you remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airline and airport personnel.
You should arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the departure time you have scheduled to ensure that the proper storage of your equipment is completed. Arriving earlier than this is even better if possible, especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This allows you to arrive early and allows ample time for the airline representative to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you travel to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you ability to seek compensation from the airline in case of damages. You should also consider bringing a seat cushion with you to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as it can be for you. Using a seat cushion is particularly important when you travel for longer than an hour, because it reduces the pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that is accepted by the airline can be daunting. Traveling with a power chair is achievable with proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Contact an airline representative prior to booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the best direction, whether you prefer to get your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it's advised to arrive at least one hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to inspect your equipment and ensure it will be stowed safely for your trip.
Depending on the type of power chair you own, it may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. If this is the case, it's beneficial to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions on hand to help the airline employees handling your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair, such as the owner's manual and warranty information. Also, remove any accessories that are removable and make sure 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 hold and then stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging an additional fee to stow power chairs assistive devices, such as electric wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for those who have disabilities, as it allows them to avoid unnecessary costs.
An airline employee will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit down the aisle of the aircraft once the plane arrives. You will then be able to board the plane, and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with right planning and following guidelines, you can enjoy exploring new places. 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 provides.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for people who have mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stress-inducing for you, but it's important to adhere to the guidelines of your airline for the transportation and storage of your chair on board the airplane. Contact the airline in advance to learn about their policies on power chairs, and to inquire about any questions.
Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized chair for your flight, so that you prepare it correctly to travel. Some airlines may require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and some will require you to have a doctor's note on file before they will allow you to fly with your power chair. Some airlines may also require that you remove the battery-powered part of your chair and place it into a protective case.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours before the time of departure to ensure that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, including the owner's manual as well as any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up check-in process and avoid confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the counter for tickets or at the gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Provide a description of your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you might require like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be storing your wheelchair in a specific cart or examining it for storage. If you're going to transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, you should try to make a direct flight which will minimize the number of times your equipment is moved between different locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo area along with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra to store your scooter or wheelchair, like they do with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, be sure to take a picture of it before you leave the airport and immediately inform the airline.