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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are many aspects to be considered. The airport staff and the airline will inquire about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to handle it.
Make sure you have all of this information in your possession prior to you head to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that comply with air travel regulations.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and safely stowed on planes. They typically come with non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel and can be stowed underneath the plane as checked baggage. Additionally, they will be able to navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips brick or muddy roads. They could also be fitted with a patented drive system which allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the gates for boarding. However, it is essential to contact them ahead of time to make sure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet those requirements. Some airlines require you to arrive an hour before the departure time you have scheduled, which is important during busy travel periods.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes that allows for the stowage and storage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is not large enough and is first come, first serve. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected in conjunction with the scooter or wheelchair because federal regulations require they are disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a secure design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when you bring an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour before your flight to ensure the 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 regarding your mobility or power chair. scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure safe and convenient travel. They can be folded and comply with airline guidelines regarding battery size and handling, as well as stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in preparing your itinerary and give you the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines will require you to 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 terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is securely tucked away in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following information including your name, address, phone number and model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment if it is lost or mishandled during your trip. You may also want to look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will aid you in staying in your wheelchair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport at two hours before the time of departure to ensure proper stowage of your equipment is completed. If you are able be there earlier than two hours prior to your scheduled departure time. This is particularly crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This lets you check in earlier and gives ample time for the airline representative to assist you with stowing your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair before you travel. This serves as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will help you in obtaining compensation for the damages from the airline. It is also advisable to bring an extra cushion for your seat so that your journey is as comfortable as it can be for you. The use of a cushion for your seat is especially important when you travel for over an hour, as it will reduce the pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been accepted by the airline can be daunting. Traveling with a power chair is achievable with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Before booking your flight, speak to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best method to check in your chair whether at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour prior to your flight is recommended. This allows the airline plenty of time to check your equipment and ensure that it is safely stored for your trip.
Based on the power chair you have It may be necessary to disassemble it before it is transported. In this situation it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the table to aid airline personnel who will handle your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair, including the owner's manual as well as warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any detachable items prior to you go to the airport and to ensure all controls are working properly.
When you arrive at the airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and stowed. electric powered wheelchairs for sale aren't allowed to charging an additional cost to store assistive devices, such as electric wheelchairs. This is a great benefit for passengers with disabilities since it allows them to avoid unnecessary costs.
A representative from the airline will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which can be able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft once the plane arrives. Then, you can disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the closest possible location to the aircraft door, either at the jetbridge or the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with the proper planning and following the guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new places. It is essential to keep in mind that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to travel with the freedom it affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. If you have an electric or wheelchair could make your experience more enjoyable. However, it is crucial to adhere to the airline's policies regarding taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline ahead of time to learn about their policies on power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Most airlines allow passengers to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight as long as it's properly prepared for travel. Some airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a physician's letter prior to allowing you to fly with a electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery-powered part of your chair and place it in a case that is safe.
Once you're at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. It's important to bring any documentation, such as the owner's manual as well as any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will speed up the check-in and prevent confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
When you reach the counter for tickets to airline or gate, be sure to be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide the kind of wheelchair you own and any other accessories you may require like cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or the possibility of transferring it to the aircraft using an adapted cart. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book a direct flight to minimize the number times your equipment is moved between places.
When your wheelchair is loaded on 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 extra for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. Take a photograph of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.
