Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many aspects to take into consideration when traveling with powered chairs. 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 these details ready before you go to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with “air-safe” batteries that are compliant with the air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and stowed safely on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for travel on planes and they can be stored in the airplane as checked baggage. Additionally they'll be able to maneuver on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips brick or roads that are muddy. They may also be equipped 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 up to the gates for boarding. It is crucial to contact the airline prior to your departure to make sure they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate the requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive one hour prior to your departure time which is essential during busy travel periods.
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. This space is limited and operated on an initial-come first-serve basis. The federal regulations also require that any additional batteries be checked by the scooter or wheelchair. They must be removed unless they are specifically designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an attendant controlled electric wheelchair scooter, or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require that you check in one hour before your flight, to ensure the 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 information about your power chairs for disabled; folding-mobility-scooters77654.actoblog.com, wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to provide an efficient and safe method of travel. These chairs are designed to fold, and they comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can assist you in preparing your itinerary and give you the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines require you to remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is securely tucked away in a straight position.
Depending on the airline you fly with depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, your address, your number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event that it gets lost or is mishandled during your journey. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will allow you to remain in your chair while you travel with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
You should arrive at at two hours before the time of departure to ensure the proper storage of your equipment is done. Being earlier than that is even better if possible especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This lets you check in early and provides ample time for the representative of the airline to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Before you travel, take a picture of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you the ability to seek compensation from the airline in case of damages. You should also consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat so that your journey is as comfortable as possible for you. Using a seat cushion is especially important when you travel for over an hour, as this will minimize pressure on your skin and reduce 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. Traveling with a power chair is possible with the proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Contact an airline representative prior to booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you in the best direction, no matter if you prefer to get your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it's recommended that you arrive at least an hour before your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure that it's safely and properly stored for your journey.
Depending on the type of power chair you have It may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. In this situation, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the table to aid airline personnel who will handle your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair, such as the owner's manual or warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable accessories before you go to the airport and to ensure all the controls are in working order.
Once you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge you extra to store assistive devices, like power chairs. This is a great feature for those with disabilities as it helps them avoid costly expenses.
When the plane lands, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your power wheelchair to one that is able to fit in the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you can disembark, and your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible location to the aircraft door, either at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines you can have fun exploring new destinations. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you are not comfortable in your chair, you'll never be able to enjoy the freedom that travel offers.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for those with mobility problems. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stress-inducing for you, but it is important to follow your airline's policies for bringing and stowing your chair on board the airplane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact your airline before your trip to inquire about their policies and ask any questions.
Most airlines will allow passengers to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight as long as it's properly prepared for travel. Some airlines may require you to recharge the batteries prior to boarding and some may require you to have a medical note on file prior to being able to allow you to fly with your motorized chair. Some airlines will also require you to remove the battery-powered part of your chair and put it in a case that is protected.
Once you're at the airport, make sure you arrive at least two hours prior to your departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documents you need to the airport, such as your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will help speed up the check-in process and can prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchair lightweight electric.
When you arrive at the airline's ticket counter or gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility wheelchairs electric requirements. Be sure to describe the type of wheelchair you have and any accessories you require like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether they will be keeping your wheelchair in a specific cart or examining it for storage. If you are transferring from your electric automatic wheelchair wheelchair to the plane, you should book an express flight to reduce the number of times your device is moved between places.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane it will be stored in the cargo compartment, just like checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair like they do with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, be sure to take a photograph before you leave the airport and immediately notify the airline.(Image: https://cdn.freshstore.cloud/offer/images/646/10266/ylfgslep-duty-electric-wheelchair-with-headrest-foldable-and-lightweight-powered-wheelchair-seat-width-46cm-adjustable-backrest-and-pedal-angle-3600-joystick-weight-capacity-120kg-20a-10266.jpg)
