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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to consider. Airport and airline staff will ask you numerous questions regarding your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.
Be sure to have all this information in your possession prior to you leave for the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are able to be safely transported and stored on planes. They usually have an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be tucked under the plane as checked baggage. Additionally, they will be able to maneuver on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or roads that are muddy. They can also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending that permits them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the boarding gate. However, it is essential to contact them prior to time to ensure they are aware of your needs and to confirm they can meet your needs. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour before your departure time which is essential during busy travel periods.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is limited and on the basis of first-come-first-serve. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected in conjunction with the scooter or wheelchair as federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless it is equipped with a safe design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when bringing an electric wheelchair or scooter on their flights. They also ask to check-in one hour prior to your flight time so that they can ensure proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions and other helpful information about your mobility or power chair. scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to offer the most secure and comfortable method of travel. These electric chairs can be folded and are in line 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 the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These experts can help you plan your itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines ask that you remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is securely tucked away in an upright position.
Depending on your airline depending on your airline, you might be asked to label your wheelchair with the following information such as your name address, number, and model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it gets lost or damaged during your trip. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will help you remain in your chair while you travel with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
electric wheelchair to buy should arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the departure time you have scheduled to ensure the proper storage of your equipment is done. If you can be there earlier than two hours prior to the time you plan to depart. This is particularly important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This lets you check in earlier and gives ample time for the airline representative to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Before you leave to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. electric wheelchairs for sale will help you to seek compensation for any damages from the airline. You should also think about bringing an extra cushion for your seat to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Using a seat cushion is particularly important for flights that will last longer than an hour, because it will reduce pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, getting on a plane could be an overwhelming experience. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is feasible with proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Speak to an airline representative prior to making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to check-in your seat at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour before your flight is suggested. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and ensure that it is safely stored for your journey.
Depending on the kind of power chair you have It could be required to disassemble it prior to transport. In this situation, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the table to aid airline employees who handle your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair, like the owner's manual and warranty information. You should also take off any removable items and check that all controls work before leaving for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra for stowing assistive devices like electric chairs. This is a great feature for passengers with disabilities, because it can help them avoid unnecessary expenses.
After the plane has landed in the air, a representative from the airline will be capable of transferring you from your power wheelchair to one that is able to slide down the aircraft aisle. Then, you can disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the nearest possible location to the door of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with right planning and following the rules, you can enjoy exploring new destinations. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you are not comfortable in your chair, you will never take advantage of the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be very stressful for those who have mobility issues. If you're using a wheelchair or a scooter could make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's policies regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your departure to ask about their policy and ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, so long as you prepare it for travel. Some airlines require you to discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a doctor's letter before they will allow you to fly with a power wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require you to disassemble the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair and place it inside a protective case.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before flight. Bring any documents you require to the airport, like your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will help speed up the check-in process and make sure that there is no confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.
When you arrive at 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're using and any accessories you require like cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be placing your wheelchair in a specific cart or checking it for storage. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book an direct flight to cut down on the number times your equipment is moved between places.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of your scooter or wheelchair, the same way they would with your luggage. Take a picture of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.
