What Are The Myths And Facts Behind Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are many aspects to be considered. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you numerous questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.

Make sure you have all these details in hand prior to you head to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that are compliant with the requirements for air travel.

What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?

Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are able to be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA will approve them for travel on planes and they can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. Additionally, they will be able to move on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or roads that are muddy. They could also have a patent-pending power drive system that enables them to move in tight spaces or lifts.

Airlines will provide assistance with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter to the gate to board. However, it is essential to contact them ahead of time to ensure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet those needs. Some airlines require that you arrive one hour prior to the departure time you have scheduled which is essential in busy travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. This space is limited and operated on the basis of first-come-first-serve. They also require that any additional batteries be checked as part of the wheelchair or scooter, as federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless it is equipped with a safe design to stop accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before you bring an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour before your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful information about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.

Safety

Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure comfortable and safe travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold up and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling, and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can assist you in planning your travel itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Some airlines ask that you remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed, and it is placed upright.

Based on your airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following details such as your name address, number and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event that it is stolen or mishandled during your journey. You may also think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which allow you to remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.

Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure to ensure proper equipment storage. If possible you can arrive at least two hours earlier than the time you plan to depart. This is especially important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This lets you check-in early and allows the airline representative ample time to help you stow your chair.

Take a photo of 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 the ability to seek compensation from the airline in case of damages. You should consider bringing a seat cushion to make the trip as comfortable as possible. The use of a cushion for your seat is particularly important when you travel for over an hour, as this will minimize the pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.

Check-In

For those who travel using an approved airline electric wheelchair, getting on a plane could be a daunting prospect. Air travel with a power chair is achievable with right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.

Contact an airline representative prior to making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best way to check in your chair, whether it is at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it's advised to arrive at least an hour before your flight. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and make sure that it will be stowed safely to be ready for your trip.

Based on the power chair you have, it may be necessary to disassemble the chair prior to it is transported. In this situation it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in hand to assist the airline personnel who will handle your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. You should also remove any removable accessories and make sure that all controls are functioning before you leave for the airport.

When you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the airplane. Airlines are not allowed to charge you extra to store assistive devices, like electric chairs. This is a huge benefit for passengers with disabilities since it helps them save money.

After the plane has landed in the air, a representative from the airline will be in a position to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit down the aircraft aisle. You will then be able to disembark, and your power wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as possible in either the jet bridge or at the gate.

The idea of using an electric wheelchair may seem daunting, but with the right planning and adherence to guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new locations with ease. It is essential to keep in mind that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair, you won't be able to travel with the freedom it provides.

Check-Out

Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for passengers who have mobility problems. If you're traveling with an electric or wheelchair could make your trip more enjoyable. However, power chairs uk it is important that you follow the airline's guidelines regarding taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your departure to inquire about their policy and ask any questions.

Many airlines will allow you to bring an electric chair on your flight, as that you prepare it to travel. Some airlines require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will require a doctor's letter to allow you to fly with your electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also demand that you disassemble the battery powered portion of your chair, and then place it in a case that is safe.

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

Upon arriving at the counter for tickets or gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide a description of your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you may require, such as seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be storing your wheelchair in a separate cart or examining it for storage. If you're taking a transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, you should try to take a direct flight which will minimize the number of times your equipment will be transferred between different locations.

When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment, just like checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you additional fees for the storage of your scooter or wheelchair, the same way they would with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, you must take a photograph before leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.