10 Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Tricks All Experts Recommend
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few things you should consider when traveling with powered chairs. The staff at the airport and the airline will inquire about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Be sure to have all of this information at hand before you leave for the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be carried and safely stowed on planes. They typically come with an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore they'll be able to navigate on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or roads that are muddy. They could also be equipped with a patent-pending power drive system that enables them to move in tight spaces or lifts.
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 ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of your requirements and to confirm that they are able to meet those needs. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour before your departure time, which is especially important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage and storage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is not large enough and it's first come, first served. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair as federal regulations require that they are disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with a safe design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair on their flights. They also request to check-in one hour prior to your flight to ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful details about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure secure and comfortable travel. These electric chairs can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline standards for battery size, handling and stowage. If you are 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. These representatives can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair for safety purposes and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed, and that it is placed upright.
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 airport and airline personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment in case it gets lost or damaged during your travels. You may also want to think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will help you remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airline and airport personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours before your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. Arriving earlier than this is even better, especially during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This lets you arrive early and allows ample time for the representative of the airline to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Before you travel and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during the flight. This will help you in pursuing compensation for any damages from the airline. You should also consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat, so that the flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Seat cushions are particularly important when you travel for more than an hour. They reduce pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane could be an overwhelming experience. However, with proper preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, traveling with your power chair is attainable.
Before booking your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They can help you navigate in the right direction, regardless of whether you prefer to get your seat at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour before your flight is suggested. lightest electric wheelchair allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure that it is properly stored to be ready for your trip.
Depending on your power chair It could be necessary for you to disassemble the chair prior to it is transported. In this case, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the go to help airline employees who handle your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any accessories that can be removed prior to when you travel to the airport, and to make sure all controls are working properly.
When you arrive at an airport the electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge you extra to store assistive devices, like electric chairs. This is a great benefit for people who have disabilities, as it allows them to avoid costly expenses.
After the plane has landed in the air, a representative from the airline will be in a position to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit in the aisle of the aircraft. You can then disembark and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the nearest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, 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 can have fun exploring new destinations. It is important to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to enjoy the freedom it affords.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for passengers who suffer from mobility issues. If you're traveling with an electric or wheelchair could make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it's crucial to adhere to the airline's policies regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your departure to inquire about their policy and to get any questions answered.
Most airlines allow passengers to bring an electric wheelchair on your flight, so provided it's prepared for travel. Some airlines may require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and some may require you to have a doctor's recommendation in order to let you fly with your motorized chair. Some airlines may also require you to disassemble the battery-powered part of your chair and then place it inside a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours before your departure time to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for 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 check-in process and help avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
Upon arriving at the ticket counter or gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Explain your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you may require for example, seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be placing your wheelchair in a special cart or examining it for stowage. If you're transferring to the plane with your electric wheelchair, you should try to take a direct flight which will cut down on the amount of times your equipment will be moved between different locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment along with your checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair, just as they would with your luggage. Take a picture of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.