Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair 101 Your Ultimate Guide For Beginners
Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair 101 Your Ultimate Guide For Beginners
Blog Article
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 on the plane will ask you many questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have these details in hand prior to you head to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with the air travel regulations.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and safely stowed on airplanes. The FAA will allow them to be used for air travel, and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. They will also be able navigate on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes, roads that are muddy or brick. They could also have a patented power drive system that enables them to move in tight spaces or lifts.
Airlines will provide assistance with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the gate for boarding. However, it is important to contact them prior to time to ensure that they are aware of your needs and to confirm that they are able to meet your needs. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of your scheduled departure, which is especially important during busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is not large enough and it's first come first served. They also require that any additional 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 an effective design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour 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 to ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other details about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to provide an efficient and safe way to travel. These power chairs are made to fold and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling, and storage. If you're planning to fly with your airline of preference, you should contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist you in preparing your itinerary and give you the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines will require you to remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is securely tucked away in a upright position.
Depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following details including your name address, number, and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it is lost or mishandled during your journey. You might also consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that help you remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airport and airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport 2 hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better if possible particularly during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This lets you check-in early and gives the representative of the airline plenty of time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair before you travel. This can be used as get more info proof in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you the possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for any damages. You should also think about bringing an extra cushion for your seat, so read more that the flight is as comfortable as it can be for you. Cushions for seats are essential for flights that last more than an hour. They reduce pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that has been power chairs approved by the airline can be daunting. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is possible with the right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Before booking your flight, speak to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to get your seat at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it is recommended to carer controlled electric wheelchair arrive at least one hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure it is safely stored to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the kind of chair you own It may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. If this is the case, it is beneficial to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions available to assist airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. It is also recommended to remove any removable accessories and make sure that all controls are functioning before leaving for the airport.
Once you arrive at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the airplane. The airlines are not allowed to charging an additional fee to stow assistive devices like power wheelchairs. This is a great benefit for those who have disabilities, as it allows them to avoid unnecessary costs.
When the plane lands, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit in the aisle of the aircraft. You will then be able to get off the plane and your wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as is possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with right planning and following guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new locations. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you are not comfortable moving around in your chair, you will never take advantage of the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for those with mobility issues. If you're traveling with a wheelchair or a scooter, it can make your trip more enjoyable. However, it is essential to follow the airline's policies regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. Contact the airline ahead of time to inquire about their policy on power chairs and to ask any questions.
Most airlines will allow you to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight, so provided it's prepared for travel. Certain airlines might require you to charge the batteries before boarding, and some will require you to have a doctor's note in order to allow you to fly using your power chair. Certain airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery-powered portion of your chair, and place it into a protective case.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to departure. Bring any documentation you might need to the airport, such as your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will help speed up the check-in process and can help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
When you reach the ticket counter of your airline or at the gate, be sure to explain your mobility needs clearly. Provide a description of your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you may need like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or if it will be transferred to the plane using an appropriate cart. If you're going to transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, try to make a direct flight which will cut down on the number of times your equipment is moved between different locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment as checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. Take a photo of your equipment in the event cheapest electric wheelchairs that it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.