What Is Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair And Why Is Everyone Speakin' About It?
What Is Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair And Why Is Everyone Speakin' About It?
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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to consider. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you many questions regarding your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have this information ready before you go to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that meet the requirements for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and safely stowed on planes. They will typically have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel and can be stowed underneath the plane as checked luggage. They can also maneuver on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration stripes brick or muddy road. They may also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending which allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate for boarding. It is important to contact the airline prior to your departure to ensure that they are aware of any special needs and confirm that they will be able to accommodate these requirements. Some airlines require you to be at least one hour prior to your departure time which is essential during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. This space is limited 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 are disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with an effective design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when bringing an electric wheelchair or scooter aboard their flights. They also ask that you check in an hour prior to your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions and other helpful information regarding your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure safe and convenient travel. They can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline guidelines for 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 in planning your trip and give you the most current information regarding 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 into a carryon bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals aren't exposed, and that it is placed upright.
Depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following information including your name address, number, and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it gets lost or is mishandled during your journey. You may also want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which allow you to remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airline and airport personnel.
You should arrive at at minimum two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure proper stowage of your equipment is completed. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better particularly during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and allows the airline representative plenty of time to help you stow your chair.
Before you travel to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you the ability to seek compensation from the airline for damages. It is also advisable to bring a seat cushion with you to ensure that your flight is as relaxing as possible for you. A seat cushion is particularly important for flights that will last more than an hour, since it will reduce the pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
For website those traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, getting on a plane could be an intimidating experience. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is feasible with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, talk to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can guide you in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to make your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it's advised to arrive at least an hour click here prior to read more your flight. This gives the airline ample time to examine your equipment and ensure that it will be stowed safely for your trip.
Depending on the kind of power chair you own, it may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it's helpful to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions on hand to help the airline employees handling your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair, including the owner's manual as well as warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any accessories that can be removed prior to when you travel to the airport, and to make sure all of the controls are functioning properly.
Once you arrive at the airport the electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging an additional fee to stow assistive devices, such as power wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for those with disabilities since it helps them avoid costly expenses.
When the plane lands, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to one that can fit into the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you can disembark, and your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the shortest possible location to the aircraft door, either at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines you can have fun exploring new locations. The most important thing to remember is that if you're uncomfortable in your chair, you will never be able to enjoy the freedom that traveling offers.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for people with mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the experience less stressful for you, but it's important to adhere to the policies of your airline regarding transporting and stowing your chair on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to inquire about their policy on power chairs, and to ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring an electric chair on your flight, so provided you prepare it to travel. Some airlines require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will need a doctor's letter before they will allow you to travel with your powered wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered portion of your chair and then place it in a case that is protected.
Once you're at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours before the time of departure handicap chair electric to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. It's important to bring any documentation, including the owner's manual as well as any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the airline ticket counter or gate, be sure to explain your mobility needs clearly. Be sure to describe the type of wheelchair you have and any accessories you require like cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be keeping your wheelchair in a specific cart or examining it for stowage. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book an direct flight to cut down on the number times your equipment is moved between different locations.
After more info your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of your wheelchair or scooter, like they do with your luggage. Take a photograph of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.