Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to consider. Airport and airline staff will ask you a lot of questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have all of this information at hand before you head to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that meet the requirements for air travel.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and stowed safely on planes. The FAA can approve them for travel on planes and they can be stowed under the plane as checked baggage. They can also maneuver on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration stripes, bricks or muddy roads. They could also be equipped with a patent-pending power drive system that allows them to navigate in tight spaces, or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the boarding gate. However, it is essential to contact them prior to time to make sure they are aware of your needs and to confirm that they are able to meet your needs. Some airlines require you to be at least one hour prior to your departure time This is crucial in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is limited and is first come, first served. The federal regulations also demand that all batteries added to the system be inspected by a wheelchair or scooter. They must be removed unless they are specifically designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when bringing electric wheelchairs or scooters on their flights. They also request that you check in an hour before your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other details about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are made for safe and convenient travel. These electric chairs can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline standards for battery size, handling and stowage. If you're planning to fly with your airline of choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can assist you in planning your trip and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety purposes and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed, and that it is safely stored upright.
Depending on the airline you use, you may need to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, address, your number, and your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it is stolen or damaged during your travels. You may want to buy aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to assist you in staying in your seat during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment storage. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better especially during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This lets you arrive early and allows plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair prior to traveling. This serves as proof if your device is damaged on the carer controlled electric wheelchair flight. This will give you leverage in obtaining compensation for damages from the airline. You should also think about bringing cushions for your seats so that your journey is as comfortable as possible for you. A seat cushion is especially important for flights that last over an hour, as this will minimize pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling using an approved airline cost of electric wheelchair electric wheelchair, getting on a plane is a daunting prospect. But, with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, flying with your power chair is feasible.
Before power chairs for sale you book your flight, talk to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best way to check-in your chair, whether it is at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it's recommended to arrive at least one hour before your flight. This gives the airline ample time to examine your equipment and ensure it will be stowed safely to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the type of chair you own It may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. If this is the case, it's important to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly in order to aid the airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any detachable accessories before you go to the airport and to ensure all of the controls are in working order.
When you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the plane. The airlines are not allowed to charging you a fee to stow assistive devices, such as power wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for those with disabilities as it helps them save money.
A representative from the airline can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which can fit down the aisle of the aircraft when the plane lands. Then, you can disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you here at the nearest possible location to the aircraft door, either at the jetbridge or the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines, you can enjoy exploring new places. It is crucial to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you won't be able to travel with the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for those with mobility issues. If you have an electric or wheelchair could make your experience more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's guidelines regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact the airline before your trip to inquire about their policy and ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring an electric chair on your flight, as provided you prepare it properly to travel. Certain airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a doctor's letter to allow you to fly with a power wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require you to disassemble the battery-powered part of your chair and then place it inside a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours before your scheduled departure time so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. Bring any documentation you may need to the airport, such as your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will make it easier for the check-in process and prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
On arrival at the counter for tickets or gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any accessories you may require, such as seat cushions or electric wheelchair price sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage or the possibility of transferring it to the plane using a specialized cart. If you're taking a transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to book a direct flight, which will reduce the amount of times your equipment will be moved between locations.
Once your wheelchair is 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, the same way they would with your luggage. Take a photograph of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.