Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

There are several things you should consider when traveling with an electric scooter wheelchair chair. 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 these details in hand prior to you head to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair has “air safe” batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.

What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?

Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines can be safely transported and stowed on planes. They typically come with a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be tucked under the plane as checked luggage. Furthermore, they will be able to navigate on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or muddy roads. They could also be fitted with a patented drive system that permits them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.

Airlines will assist you with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate to board. It is essential to call the airline ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they can meet these requirements. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour before your departure time which is essential during peak travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of one wheelchair or Mobility Power handicap chair electric (https://Orangebookmarks.Com/) scooter. This space is limited and 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 are disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with an effective design to prevent accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an transportable electric wheelchair scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour before 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 information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other information regarding your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.

Safety

Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to provide a safe and convenient method of travel. These bariatric electric wheelchair uk chairs are designed to fold and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can help you plan your travel itinerary and provide you with the most current details regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety purposes and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery terminals aren’t exposed, and that it is safely stored upright.

Depending on the airline you use, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following information such as your name, address, phone number, and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it is stolen or mishandled during your journey. You might also consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that help you remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airline and airport personnel.

You should arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to the departure time you have scheduled to ensure the proper storage of your equipment is done. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better if possible especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and allows the representative of the airline plenty of time to assist you in stowing your chair.

Photograph your wheelchair before you travel. This can be used as proof in the event that your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline in case of damages. Consider bringing along cushions to make the flight as comfortable as you possibly can. A seat cushion is essential for flights that last longer than an hour, because it reduces the pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.

Check-In

For those traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, boarding a plane can be an overwhelming experience. Traveling with a power chair is possible with the right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.

Speak to an airline representative before booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best method to check into your seat whether at the ticket counter or the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour before your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure it is safely stored for your trip.

Depending on the type of power chair you have It could be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. If this is the case, it is beneficial to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly available to assist staff of the airline handling your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair, like the owner’s manual or warranty information. Also, take off any removable items and make sure whether all controls function before you leave for the airport.

When you arrive at the airport the electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and stowed. The airlines aren’t allowed to charging you a cost to store assistive devices, such as power wheelchairs. This is a wonderful benefit for passengers with disabilities, as it helps them avoid costly expenses.

When the plane lands in the air, a representative from the airline will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to fit in the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you can disembark, and your wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible location to the door of the aircraft or at the jetbridge or at the gate.

Traveling with an electric wheelchair may seem intimidating, but with proper planning and adhering to the guidelines, it is possible to experience the joy of exploring new locations without difficulty. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you are not comfortable moving around in your chair, you’ll never be able to enjoy the freedom that traveling provides.

Check-Out

Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for people who have mobility problems. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, but it’s important to adhere to the guidelines of your airline for bringing and stowing your chair on board the airplane. Contact the airline ahead of time to learn about their policies regarding power chairs and to inquire about any questions.

Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair for your flight, as that you prepare it for travel. Certain airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a physician’s letter before they will allow you to travel with your powered wheelchair. Some airlines may also require that you take down the battery powered portion of your chair, and place it in an enclosure that is protected.

Arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before flight. It’s important to bring any documentation, like your owner manual and any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up the process of checking in and will help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline’s wheelchairs.

When you arrive at the airline ticket counter or gate, make sure you communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Explain the kind of wheelchair you’re using and any other accessories you may require, such as cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they’ll be checking your wheelchair for stowage or the possibility of transferring it to the aircraft with an appropriate cart. If you’re moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book a direct flight to minimize the number of times your device is moved between different locations.

After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo area along with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment arrives damaged, make sure you capture a photo before you leave the airport and immediately inform the airline.