7 Helpful Tips To Make The Most Of Your Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
7 Helpful Tips To Make The Most Of Your Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are many things to take into consideration. Airport and airline staff will ask you numerous questions about your chair's 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. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines can be safely transported and stored on planes. They typically come with non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel and can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. They can also maneuver on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration stripes bricks or muddy roads. They could also be fitted with a drive system that is patent-pending which allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter to the boarding gate. It is however important to contact them ahead of time to make sure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet those requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of the time of departure which is crucial in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes that allows for the stowage of a 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 checked as part of the scooter or wheelchair, since federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless the chair is equipped with a secure design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to taking an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask to check-in one hour prior to your flight time to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent information about your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are made for secure and comfortable travel. These power chairs are made to fold, and they conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and stowage. If you're planning to travel with the airline of your choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These experts can assist you in planning your travel itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines will require you to take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed, and it is stored upright.
Depending on your airline or airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following details such as your name address, address, phone number, and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event that it is stolen or damaged during your travels. You may want to purchase 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.
You should arrive at at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure the proper storage of your equipment is accomplished. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better if possible particularly during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and allows the representative of the airline plenty of time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you leave, take a picture of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will help you in obtaining compensation for the damages from the airline. Consider bringing along an extra cushion for your seat to make the trip as comfortable as possible. The use of a cushion for your seat is especially important for flights that last more than an hour, since it will reduce the pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, the process of boarding a plane can be an overwhelming experience. However, with proper preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, air travel with your power chair is attainable.
Speak to an airline representative before booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They'll be able to help you navigate in the right direction, whether you prefer to get your seat at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it is advised to arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to check your equipment and make sure that it is safely stored for your journey.
Based on the power chair you have It may be necessary to disassemble the chair prior to transportation. In this instance, 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 an excellent idea to attach any safety or maintenance documentation 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 go to the airport, and to make sure all of the controls are working properly.
Once you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and then stowed. The airlines are not allowed to charging you an additional my mobility scooters cost to store assistive devices, such as power wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for people with disabilities, since it allows them to avoid unnecessary expenses.
A representative from the airline will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit down the aircraft aisle when the plane lands. After disembarking, your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the shortest possible location to the door of the aircraft or at the jetbridge or at the gate.
A trip with an electric wheelchair may seem daunting, but with the right planning and adhering to guidelines, you can be able to experience the joy of exploring new places with ease. It is important to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to enjoy the freedom it offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for those with mobility issues. If you have a wheelchair or a scooter could make your trip more enjoyable. However, it's essential to follow the airline's guidelines for the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. Contact the airline in advance to learn about their policies on power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, so that you prepare it correctly to travel. Some airlines may require you to recharge the batteries prior to boarding and some will need to have a doctor's recommendation on file before they will allow you to fly using your power chair. Some airlines may 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, be sure to arrive at least two hours before your departure time so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. Bring any documents you need to the airport, including your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will speed up check-in process and avoid confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
Upon arriving at the airline's ticket counter or gate, make sure to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Explain your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you may need, such as seats or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be storing your wheelchair in a separate cart or checking it for storage. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book an direct flight to cut down on the amount of times your equipment is moved between places.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment, just like checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. Take a picture of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.