What Is Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair And How To Use What Is Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair And How To Use

Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are many aspects to be considered. Airport and airline staff will ask you many questions about your chair's dimensions, battery type and how it should be handled.

Be sure to have these details in hand prior to you travel to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with air travel regulations.

What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?

Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be carried and stowed securely on planes. They typically come with a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stowed underneath the plane as checked baggage. They will also be able maneuver on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration stripes, bricks or muddy roads. They could also have a patent-pending power drive system that permits them to navigate in tight spaces, or lifts.

The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the boarding gates. It is essential to contact the airline in advance to ensure that they are aware of any specific needs and confirm that they will be able to accommodate these requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive at least an hour prior to the time of departure, which is especially important during peak travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes for the stowage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is limited and operates on the basis of first-come-first-serve. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected in conjunction with the scooter or wheelchair since federal regulations require that they be disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with an effective design to stop accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour prior to your flight so that they can ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions and other helpful details about your mobility or power chair. scooter.

Safety

Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to provide the most secure and comfortable way to travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold and meet airline guidelines regarding 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 you in preparing your itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require you to take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is securely tucked away in a straight position.

Depending on the airline you use, you may need to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, your address, your telephone number, and your wheelchair model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment if it gets lost or damaged during your trip. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to help you remain in your chair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.

You should arrive at the airport 2 hours before your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment storage. Being earlier than that is even better particularly during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This lets you check-in early and allows the airline representative ample time to help you stow your chair.

Take a picture of your wheelchair prior to traveling. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage in obtaining compensation for the damages from the airline. You should consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to make the flight as comfortable as you can. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights that last more than an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.

Check-In

The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be intimidating. But, with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, traveling using your electric chair is attainable.

Before you book your flight, speak to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best method to check in your chair, whether it is at the counter for tickets or the gate. In either case, it is 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 for your trip.

Based on the power chair you have It could be necessary to disassemble it prior to it is transported. If this is the case, it's helpful to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions in order to aid the airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair. This electric wheelchair price includes the owner's guide and warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable items prior to you go to the airport and also to ensure that all controls are working properly.

Once you arrive at the airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and then stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge you extra to store assistive devices, like power chairs. This is a great feature for those with disabilities as it helps them avoid unnecessary expenses.

Once the plane is in the air, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit in the aisle of the aircraft. You will then be able to board the plane, and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as you can or at the jet bridge or at the gate.

It may seem daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with right planning and following the rules you can have fun exploring new destinations. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you're not comfortable in your chair, you'll never be able to take advantage of the freedom that travel affords.

Check-Out

Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for people who have mobility issues. If you're using a wheelchair or a scooter, it can make your trip 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. Contact the airline prior to departure to find out their policy on power chairs and to ask any questions.

Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, so provided you prepare it for travel. Certain airlines might require you to recharge the batteries before boarding, and some will require you to have a doctor's recommendation on file prior to being able to allow you to fly with your power chair. Some airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery-powered part of your chair, and place it into an enclosure that is protected.

When you arrive at the airport, make sure you arrive at least two hours prior to your departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. Bring any documentation you might require to the airport, like your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will speed up check-in process and avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.

When you arrive at the counter for tickets or at the gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Explain your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you may need like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage or if it will be transferred to the aircraft with an appropriate cart. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book a direct flight to minimize the amount of times your equipment is moved between locations.

After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo compartment with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you extra to store your scooter or wheelchair the same way they would with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, make sure you take a picture of it before you leave the airport and immediately notify the airline.