"A Guide To Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair In 2023
"A Guide To Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair In 2023
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to take into consideration. The staff at the airport and at the airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to use it.
Make sure you have this information in your possession prior to you leave for the airport. Make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with the air travel regulations.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines can be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for travel on planes, and they can be kept under the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore they'll be able to maneuver on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or muddy roads. They could also be fitted with a drive system that is patent-pending that allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate to board. It is however important to contact them prior to time to ensure they are aware of your needs and to confirm that they are able to meet those needs. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour before your scheduled departure time, which is important during busy travel periods.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is limited and operates on a first-come, first-serve basis. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair, because federal regulations require they must be removed from the device unless the chair is equipped with an effective design to prevent 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 prior to your flight to ensure the 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 as well as other useful information regarding your mobility or power chair. scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed for safe and convenient travel. These electric chairs can be folded and are in line with airline standards for battery size and handling, as well as stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist in planning your itinerary and give you the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines ask that you take the wheelchair's battery out of the way to ensure safety and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is secured in a upright position.
Based on your airline depending on your airline, you might be required to label your wheelchair with the following information: your name address, number and model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment in case it should become lost or damaged during your travels. You might also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that allow you to remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport 2 hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. Being earlier than that is even better especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This lets you check-in early and gives the representative of the airline plenty of time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair prior to traveling. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you the leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for damages. Consider bringing along an extra cushion for your seat to make your flight as comfortable as possible. Seat cushions are especially important when you travel for more than an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that has been accepted by the airline can be intimidating. However, with the check here proper preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, air travel using your electric chair is attainable.
Talk to an airline representative prior to making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best way to check into your seat, whether it is at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour prior to your flight is suggested. This gives the airline ample time to inspect your equipment and ensure it will be stowed safely for your journey.
Depending on the model of your power chair, it may be necessary for you to disassemble it prior to transport. In this situation it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the table to aid airline personnel who will handle your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. You should also remove any accessories that are removable and make sure whether all controls function before you leave for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the airplane. Airlines are not permitted to charge you extra for stowing assistive devices such as power chairs. This is an excellent benefit for those with disabilities as they can avoid costly expenses.
Once the plane is in the air at the airport, an airline employee will be able to transfer you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to fit in the aisle of the aircraft. You will then be able to disembark, and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as you can in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines, you can enjoy exploring new places. The most important thing to remember is that if uncomfortable in your chair, you will never be able to take advantage of the freedom that travel affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for people with mobility issues. If you're using a wheelchair or a scooter can make your trip more enjoyable. However, it's essential to follow the airline's guidelines regarding bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact the airline prior to your departure to ask about their policy and ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair for your flight, so long as you prepare it to travel. Some airlines might require you to recharge the batteries prior to boarding and some may require you to have a doctor's recommendation on file before they will allow you to fly with your electric chair. Some airlines may also require that you remove the battery powered portion of your wheelchair, and place it in a case that is safe.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your flight. Bring any documents you require to the airport, like your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will make it easier for the process of checking in and will prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
Upon arriving at the airline's ticket counter or gate, make certain to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Explain the kind of wheelchair you own and any other accessories you may require, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether they will be placing your wheelchair in a separate cart or checking it for storage. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book an express flight to reduce the amount of times your equipment is moved between locations.
Once your wheelchair is in the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment as checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. Take a photo of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.