Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several 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 use it.
Make sure you have this information at hand before you leave for the airport. Make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines can be safely transported and stored on planes. They typically come with a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be tucked under the plane as checked luggage. They will also be able maneuver on rough surfaces, such as deceleration stripes, gravel, brick or muddy road. They may also have a patent-pending power drive system that enables them to navigate in tight spaces, or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the boarding gate. It is essential to contact the airline in advance to make sure they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they can meet these requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive at least an hour prior to the time of departure This is particularly important during busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes that allows for the stowage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited and operates on a first-come, first-serve basis. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected in conjunction with the scooter or wheelchair, because federal regulations require they be disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with a safe design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour before your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent information regarding your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure safe and convenient travel. These chairs are designed to fold, and they conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling, and storage. If you're planning to travel with the airline of your choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These experts can help you plan your travel itinerary and provide you with the latest details regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require you to take the wheelchair's battery out of the way to ensure safety and put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't 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 phone number, and the wheelchair model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment if it gets lost or mishandled during your trip. You may also consider purchasing aftermarket slings like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will aid you in staying in your wheelchair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that the proper stowage 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 arrive early and allows ample time for the airline representative to assist you with stowing your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair before you travel. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged on the flight. This will help you in pursuing compensation for the damages from the airline. You should also think about bringing an extra cushion for your seat, so that the flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Cushions for seats are essential when you travel for more than an hour. They reduce the pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline may be intimidating. Air travel with a power chair is achievable with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Contact an airline representative before making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best method to check into your seat whether at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it's 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 for your journey.
Depending on the model of your power chair It could be necessary bariatric electric wheelchair uk to disassemble it prior to transportation. In this instance, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the go to help airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also recommended to remove any accessories that are removable and make sure that all controls are functioning before you leave for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the airplane. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra fees to store assistive devices, like electric chairs. This is a great feature for people with disabilities, as it helps them avoid costly expenses.
When the plane lands in the air, a representative from the airline will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to one that is able to slide down the aircraft aisle. After disembarking, your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the nearest possible location to the door 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, you can be able to experience the joy of exploring new locations with ease. It is essential to keep in mind that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to travel with the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for people who suffer from mobility issues. If you're traveling with mobility scooters or wheelchairs can make your experience more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's policies regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to find out their policy on power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Most airlines will allow you to take a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight as provided it's prepared for travel. Some airlines require that you charge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a doctor's letter prior to allowing you to travel with your electric wheelchair. Some airlines will also require you to remove the battery-powered part of your chair and put it in a protective case.
Arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, such as your owner manual and any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will help speed up the check-in process and make sure that there is no confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.
When you arrive at the counter for tickets to airline or gate, be sure to be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide the kind of wheelchair you own and any necessary accessories, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be placing your wheelchair in a separate cart or examining it for storage. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book an express flight to reduce the number times your equipment is moved between different locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo area along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you extra to store your scooter or wheelchair, just as they would with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, be sure to take a picture of it prior to leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.