15 Interesting Facts About Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair You've Never Seen
15 Interesting Facts About Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair You've Never Seen
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to consider. The airport staff and the airline will inquire about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Be sure to have all of this information at hand before you leave for the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are able to be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for air travel and they can be stored in the airplane as checked baggage. In addition, they will be able to move on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips, brick or roads that are muddy. They can also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending which 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. However, it is important to contact them prior to time to ensure they are aware of your needs and to confirm that they are able to meet your needs. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour before the time of departure which is crucial in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage and storage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. This space is limited and on an initial-come first-serve basis. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair since federal regulations require that they are disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a safe design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask to check-in one hour prior to your flight to ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get assembly/disassembly information and other helpful details about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed for safe and convenient travel. These power 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 chosen airline in advance to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in planning your trip and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety purposes and place it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that the battery is securely tucked away in a upright position.
Depending on the airline you use, you may need to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, address, your phone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it is stolen or mishandled on your trip. You might also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will allow you to remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours before your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. If you are able be there at least two hours earlier than your departure time. This is especially important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This lets you arrive early and allows plenty of time for the airline representative to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Before you leave, take a picture of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged on the flight. This will give you possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for damages. You should also think about bringing cushions for your seats, so that the flight is as relaxing as possible for you. Using a seat cushion is essential for flights that last over an hour, as this will minimize pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
For those who travel with an airline approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane is an intimidating experience. However, with the proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, traveling with a power chair is attainable.
Talk to an airline representative before booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They will be able to help you navigate in the right direction, whether you prefer to get your seat at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour before your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure that it's safely stowed to be ready for your trip.
Based on the model of power chair you have It may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it is beneficial to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions on hand to help the staff of the airline handling your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair, like the owner's manual as well as warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any detachable items prior to you go to the airport and to ensure all controls are working properly.
Once you are at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the plane. The airlines are not allowed to charging you a fee to stow assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for people with disabilities, since it allows them to save money.
An airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can be able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft once the plane lands. You will then be able to board the plane, and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as is possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with right planning and following the rules you can have fun exploring new places. It is crucial to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to travel with the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for those with mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, however it is important to follow the guidelines of your airline for transporting and stowing your chair on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your travels to ask about their policy and get any questions answered.
Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight as you've prepared it for travel. Some airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to boarding 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 part of your chair and then place it inside a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, make sure you arrive at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. Bring any documents you need to the airport, such as your manual or any instructions for assembly or attendant controlled electric power wheelchair disassembly of your mobility aid. This will help speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
If you are at the airline ticket counter or at the gate, be sure you be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Be sure to describe the kind of wheelchair you own and any accessories you require like cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be storing your wheelchair in a separate cart or examining it for stowage. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book a direct flight to minimize the number times your equipment is moved between different locations.
Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment along with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair the same way they would with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, you must capture a photo prior to leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.