15 Startling Facts About Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair That You Didn't Know About
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are a few aspects to be considered. The airport staff and at the airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information ready prior to your trip to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that comply with the requirements 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. They typically come with non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel. They can be tucked under the plane as checked luggage. In addition they'll be able to move on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or muddy roads. They could also have an exclusive power drive system that enables them to move in tight spaces or lifts.
Airlines will assist you with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter to the gate for boarding. It is essential to contact the airline prior to your departure to make sure they are aware of any specific needs and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate them. Some airlines require you to arrive one hour prior to the departure time you have scheduled This is crucial during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited and is first come first served. The federal regulations also require that any additional batteries be inspected by a wheelchair or scooter. They must be shut off unless they are specifically designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to bringing electric wheelchairs or scooters aboard their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour prior to your flight time to ensure proper handling of 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 power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are made for secure and comfortable travel. These power chairs can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can assist you in planning your itinerary and give you the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety and then place it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is safely stowed in a upright position.
Depending on the airline you use depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, address, your phone number, and your wheelchair model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment in case it gets lost or mishandled during your trip. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to assist you in staying in your chair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that the proper storage of your equipment is done. If you are able, arrive earlier than two hours prior to the time you plan to depart. This is particularly important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and gives the airline representative plenty of time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you leave to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for the damages from the airline. It is also advisable to bring cushions for your seats so that your journey is as comfortable as it can be for you. Cushions for seats are essential for flights lasting over an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin preventing soreness.
Check-In
The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been accepted by the airline can be intimidating. Air travel with a power chair is possible with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Talk to an airline representative before making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best method to check into your seat whether at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour prior to your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure it is safely stored to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the type of power chair you own It could be necessary to disassemble it for transport. In this case it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to assist the airline employees who handle your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair, such as the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any detachable items prior to you leave for the airport, and to make sure all controls are functioning properly.
Once you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and stowed. Airlines are not allowed to charge you extra for stowing assistive devices such as power chairs. This is a great benefit for people with disabilities since they can avoid costly expenses.
An airline employee can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit down the aisle of the aircraft once the plane lands. After disembarking, your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or at the gate.
A trip with an electric chair can be daunting, but with careful planning and adherence to guidelines, it is possible to experience the joy of exploring new locations easily. It is important to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair, you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for those with mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, but it's important to adhere to your airline's policies for bringing and stowing your chair on board the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact the airline before your trip to ask about their policy and get any questions answered.
Many airlines will allow you to take an electric wheelchair on your flight as long as it's properly prepared for travel. electric wheelchairs for disabled might require you to discharge the batteries before boarding, and some will need to have a medical note on file prior to being able to allow you to fly with your electric chair. Some airlines may also require you to remove the battery-powered part of your chair and put it in a protective case.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before departure. It's important to bring any documentation, including the owner's manual as well as any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and prevent any confusion regarding your airline's wheelchair policies.
On arrival at the airline's ticket counter or at the gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide the kind of wheelchair you're using and any necessary accessories, such as cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be placing your wheelchair in a specific cart or examining it for storage. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book a direct flight to minimize the number times your equipment is moved between different locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment along with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra fees for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. Take a photo of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.