Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several things to consider when traveling with an electric chair. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you numerous questions regarding the dimensions of your chair, battery type and how it should be handled.
Be sure to have all this information at hand before you travel to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with air travel regulations.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are able to be safely transported and stowed on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for air travel, and they can be stored in the airplane as checked baggage. They will also be able move on rough surfaces such as deceleration stripes, gravel, roads that are muddy or brick. They can also be equipped with a unique drive system which allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the boarding gates. However, it is essential to contact them prior to time to ensure that they are aware of your requirements and confirm that they can meet those needs. Some airlines require you to arrive one hour prior to your scheduled departure time, which is important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is not large enough and it's first come first served. The federal regulations also require that all extra batteries be checked by the scooter or wheelchair. They must be removed unless they are specifically designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also request that you check in an hour prior to your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain assembly/disassembly information and other helpful information regarding your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to provide a safe and convenient way to travel. These electric chairs can be folded and comply with airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and stowage. If you're planning to fly with your airline of preference, you should contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can assist you in preparing your itinerary and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require you to 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 your airline depending on your airline, you might be asked to label your wheelchair with the following information including your name, address, phone number and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment in case it gets lost or mishandled during your trip. You may want to buy aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will allow you to remain in your seat during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at two hours before the departure time you have scheduled to ensure that proper stowage of your equipment is accomplished. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This lets you check in earlier and gives ample time for the airline representative to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you leave and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during your flight. This will give you the leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for damages. It is also advisable to bring an extra cushion for your seat to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Using a seat cushion is essential for flights that last over an hour, as this will minimize the pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those who travel with an airline approved electric wheelchair, the process of boarding a plane can be an overwhelming experience. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is possible with the proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They'll be able to help you electric mobility chairs for adults navigate in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to get your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, it is recommended to arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This gives the airline ample time to examine your equipment and ensure that it will be safely towed to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the type of power chair you have It could be necessary to disassemble it for transport. If this is the case, it's helpful to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to help the airline employees handling your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair, like the owner's manual or warranty information. Also, remove any accessories that are removable and ensure whether all controls function before you leave for the airport.
When you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging an additional cost to store assistive devices, such as power wheelchairs. This is a great website feature for passengers with disabilities, as it helps them save money.
When the plane lands in the air, a representative from the airline will be capable of transferring you from your power here wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to slide in the aisle of the aircraft. You can then disembark and your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the nearest possible location to the aircraft door, either at the jetbridge or the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with right planning and following the rules you will be able to enjoy exploring new destinations. It is crucial to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to travel with the freedom it offers.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for those who suffer from mobility problems. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, however it's important to adhere to the guidelines of your airline for the transportation and storage of your chair on board the airplane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact the airline prior to your travels to ask about their policy and get any questions answered.
Most airlines will allow you to take an electric best electric wheelchair uk wheelchair on your flight, so you've prepared it for travel. Some airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a doctor's letter before they will allow you to fly with a electric wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require you to disassemble the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair and place it inside a protective case.
When you arrive at the airport, make 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 the flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, including the website owner's manual as well as any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
When you reach the ticket counter of your airline or gate, make sure to explain your mobility needs clearly. Provide the type of wheelchair you have and any other accessories you may require, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or whether it will be transported to the plane using an adapted cart. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book an direct flight to cut down on the amount of times your equipment is moved between places.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment as checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging additional fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment arrives damaged, you must take a photograph before leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.