7 Essential Tips For Making The Greatest Use Of Your Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
7 Essential Tips For Making The Greatest Use Of Your Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several things you should consider when traveling with a powered chair. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you many questions regarding the dimensions of your chair, battery type and how it should be handled.
Make sure you have this information ready before you go to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that meet the regulations for air travel.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA will approve them for travel on planes and they can be kept in the airplane as checked baggage. In addition, they will be able to navigate on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or muddy roads. They may also be equipped with a patented drive system which allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the boarding gates. However, it is important to contact them prior to time to ensure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet those needs. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour before your scheduled departure time This is crucial during busy travel periods.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. This space is limited and on a first-come, first-serve basis. They also require that any additional batteries be checked as part of the scooter or wheelchair since federal regulations require that they be disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with a safe design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask to check-in at least an hour before your flight so that they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions and other helpful details about your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to provide the most secure and comfortable method of travel. These electric chairs can be folded and are in line with airline standards for battery size and handling, as well as stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist in planning your trip and give you the most current information regarding 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 put it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that the battery is safely stowed in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you fly with depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, address, your telephone number, and the 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 might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will allow you to remain in your chair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. Arriving earlier than this is even better especially during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This lets you check in earlier and gives plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Before you leave and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will help you in pursuing compensation for damages from the airline. It is also advisable to bring an extra cushion for your seat, so that the flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Cushions for seats are essential for flights lasting over an hour. They will reduce pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that is accepted by the airline can be intimidating. Traveling with a power chair is feasible with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Talk to an airline representative prior to making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They will be able to help you navigate in the right direction, regardless of whether you prefer to make your seat at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it's recommended that you arrive at least one hour before your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure that it's safely and properly stored to be ready for your trip.
Based on the power chair you have It may be necessary for you to disassemble mymobilityscooters the chair prior to transport. In this situation, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the go to help airline employees who handle your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair, including the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any removable items and ensure that all controls work before you leave for the airport.
When you arrive at an airport the electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and then stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging an additional fee to stow assistive devices, such as electric wheelchairs. This is a great feature for those with disabilities since it allows them to avoid unnecessary expenses.
After the plane has landed in the air, a representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your power wheelchair to one that is able to slide in the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you can disembark, and your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible location to the door of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with the right planning and following guidelines you can have fun exploring new locations. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if not comfortable moving around in your chair, you'll not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that traveling provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. If you're using an electric or wheelchair could make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's guidelines regarding taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to inquire about their policy on power chairs, and to inquire about any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, as long as you prepare it correctly to travel. Some airlines may require you to recharge the batteries prior to boarding and some will require you to have a doctor's recommendation on file before they will let you fly with your electric chair. Certain airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery powered portion of your chair, and place it into an enclosure that is protected.
When you arrive at the airport, make 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. Bring any documents you require to the airport, such as your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will make it easier for the process of checking in and will make sure that there is no confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.
When you arrive at the airline ticket counter or at the gate, be sure you explain your mobility needs clearly. Explain your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you might require for example, sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage or if it will be transferred to the aircraft with an adapted cart. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book an express flight to reduce the amount of times your equipment is moved between different locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane it will be stored in the cargo compartment, just like checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. Take a picture of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.