Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair 101 This Is The Ultimate Guide For Beginners
Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair 101 This Is The Ultimate Guide For Beginners
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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 the airline will inquire about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to use it.
Make sure you have this information at hand before you travel to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and stowed securely on airplanes. The FAA can approve them for use on flights and they can be stowed under the plane as checked baggage. They will also be able navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration stripes, bricks or muddy roads. They could also have a patented power drive system that enables them to navigate in tight spaces, or lifts.
Airlines will provide assistance for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the boarding gate. However, it is essential to contact them ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of your needs and to confirm they can meet those needs. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of your scheduled departure which is crucial in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is not large enough and it's first come, first served. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair, as 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-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour before your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions and other helpful information regarding your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to provide an efficient and safe method of travel. These power chairs are made to fold up and conform to airline standards regarding 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. They can assist you in planning your travel plans and provide you with the latest details regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety purposes and place it into a carryon bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is secured in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, address, your telephone number, and your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and accurately 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, that aid you in staying in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
You should always arrive at at minimum two hours prior to the departure time you have scheduled to ensure proper stowage of your equipment is accomplished. If you can be there earlier than two hours prior to your scheduled departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This allows you to check in early and provides plenty of time for the airline representative to assist you in stowing your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair before you travel. This can be used as proof in the event that your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you ability to seek compensation from the airline for any damages. Consider bringing along a seat cushion to make the flight as comfortable as you possibly can. Using a seat cushion is particularly important for flights that last more than an hour, since it reduces pressure on your light electric wheelchair skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that has been accepted by the airline can be intimidating. However, with proper preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, flying with a power chair is possible.
Speak to an airline representative before booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best method to check in your chair, whether it is at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it is recommended that you arrive at least an hour before your flight. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and make sure that it is safely stored for your trip.
Depending on the type of power chair you have It could be necessary to disassemble it for transport. In this case it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the go to help 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 and warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable items prior to you go to the airport and to ensure all of the controls are functioning properly.
Once you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. Airlines are not permitted to charge you extra for the stowing of assistive devices like electric chairs. This is a huge benefit for passengers with disabilities as it helps them save money.
An airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which will fit on the aisle of the aircraft when the plane lands. After disembarking, your wheelchair is returned to you at the nearest possible location to the door of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or at the gate.
Traveling with an electric wheelchair may seem daunting, but with the right planning and adhering to the guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the thrill of exploring new places easily. It is essential to keep in mind that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair, you won't be able to travel with the freedom it offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for passengers who suffer from mobility issues. If you're traveling with mobility scooters or wheelchairs, it can make your trip more enjoyable. However, it is essential to follow the airline's policies regarding taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline ahead of time to find out their policy on power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to take an electric wheelchair on your trip as provided it's prepared for travel. Some airlines require that you discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a physician's letter to allow you to travel with your electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also require that you remove the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair, and place it into a protective case.
When you arrive at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours before the time of departure so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's also a good idea 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 and prevent confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the ticket counter or gate, make sure to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Provide a description of your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you may need for example, sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair for stowage or the possibility of transferring it to the aircraft with a specialized cart. If you're going to transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, make sure to make a direct flight which will minimize the amount of times your equipment will be moved between various locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane it will be stored in the cargo compartment, just like checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for storing your wheelchair or scooter, just as they would with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, be sure to take a photograph before leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.