How To Research Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Online
How To Research Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Online
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are several aspects to be considered. The staff at the airport and the airline will inquire about your chair, its dimensions and battery type, as well as how to use it.
Make sure you have all of this information in your possession prior to you travel to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that comply with air travel regulations.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and safely stowed on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for air travel and they can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to move on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes, roads that are muddy or brick. They may also be equipped with a unique drive system which allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the boarding gate. It is however 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 your needs. Certain airlines require you to be at least an hour before your departure time, which is important during busy travel periods.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes that allows for the stowage and storage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited and on a first-come, first-serve basis. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected in conjunction with the scooter or wheelchair, since federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless it is equipped with a secure design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also request to check-in one hour before your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather assembly/disassembly information and other helpful information regarding your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to provide an efficient and safe method of travel. These electric chairs can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date details regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines require you to remove your wheelchair's battery to ensure safety and put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed and that it is stored upright.
Depending on the airline you use depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, your address, your phone number, and the wheelchair model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment if it is lost or mishandled during your trip. You may want to buy aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will assist you in staying in your chair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours before your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better if possible, especially during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and provides plenty of time for the airline representative 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 on the flight. This will give you the leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for any damages. It is also advisable to bring cushions for your seats, so that the flight is as comfortable as it can be for you. Using a seat cushion is essential for flights that last over an hour, as this will minimize pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, boarding a plane can be an intimidating experience. However, with proper preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, flying using your electric chair is feasible.
Contact an airline representative prior to making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to get your seat at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it is recommended that you arrive at least one hour prior to your flight. This gives the airline ample time to examine your equipment and make sure that it will be stowed safely to be ready for your trip.
Depending on your power chair It may be necessary for you to disassemble the chair prior to it is transported. In this situation it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the go to help airline employees who handle your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair, such as the owner's manual and warranty information. Also, remove any removable accessories and check whether all controls function before you depart for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the airplane. The airlines aren't allowed to charging an additional cost to store assistive devices, such as power wheelchairs. This is a wonderful benefit for those with disabilities as it helps them avoid unnecessary expenses.
A representative from the airline will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can be able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft once the plane lands. Then, you can disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the shortest possible location to the door of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or the gate.
A trip with an electric wheelchair may seem daunting, but with careful planning and adherence to guidelines, you can be able to experience the joy of exploring new destinations with ease. It is crucial to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in here your chair you will not be able to enjoy the freedom it affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for people with mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stress-inducing for you, but it is important to follow the policies of your airline regarding bringing and stowing your chair on the airplane. Contact the airline ahead of time to learn about their policies on power chairs and to ask any questions.
Most airlines allow you to take an electric wheelchair on your trip as you've prepared it for travel. Some airlines may require you to recharge the batteries prior to boarding and some may require you to have a doctor's recommendation on file prior to being able to allow you to fly using your motorized chair. Some airlines may also require that you remove the battery powered portion of your wheelchair, and place it into a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documentation you may need to the airport, including your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will speed up check-in process and avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the ticket counter or gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Provide the kind of wheelchair you're using and any necessary accessories like cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be storing your wheelchair in a specific cart or examining it for stowage. If you're going to transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, try to book a direct flight, which will reduce the number of times that your equipment will be moved between locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment along with your checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment arrives damaged, be sure to take a photograph before leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.