Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

There are several things you should consider when traveling with an electric chair. The staff at the airport and airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions and battery type, as well as how to use it.

Make sure you have this information at hand before you head to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with the regulations for air travel.

What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?

Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are able to be safely transported and stored on planes. They will typically have a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be tucked under the plane as checked baggage. Additionally, they will be able to maneuver on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips brick or roads that are muddy. They can also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending that allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.

The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the boarding gates. It is crucial to contact the airline in advance to ensure they are aware of any special needs and confirm that they can meet these requirements. Some airlines require you to arrive one hour prior to your scheduled departure time This is crucial during busy travel periods.

Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of a mobility wheelchairs electric scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited and operates on an initial-come first-serve basis. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected in conjunction with the scooter or wheelchair, since federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless it 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 aboard their flights. They also request that you check-in an hour before your flight so that they can ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain 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 and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and stowage. If you are planning to travel with your airline of choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can assist you in planning your travel itinerary and provide you with the latest information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety. You can then put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals aren't exposed, and that it is stored upright.

Based on your airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following information including your name address, number, and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it is stolen or damaged during your travels. You may want to buy aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to allow you to remain in your chair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.

You should arrive at the airport 2 hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. If you can, arrive earlier than two hours prior to your scheduled departure time. This is especially important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and gives the representative of the airline plenty of time to help you stow your chair.

Photograph your wheelchair prior to travel. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for damages from the airline. Consider bringing along a seat cushion to make your flight as comfortable as possible. Cushions for seats are essential when you travel for more than an hour. They can reduce pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.

Check-In

For those who travel with an airline approved electric wheelchair, boarding a plane can be a daunting prospect. But, with the right preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, flying using your electric chair is feasible.

Contact an airline representative prior to booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best way to check-in your chair whether at the counter for tickets or the gate. In either case, arriving one hour before your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it's safely stowed for your journey.

Based on the model of chair you own, it may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it is important to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly available to assist airline employees handling your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair, including the owner's manual and warranty information. You should also remove any removable accessories and check whether all controls function before you depart for the airport.

Once you arrive at the airport the heavy duty electric wheelchairs chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra for stowing assistive devices such as electric chairs. This is an excellent benefit for those with disabilities since it allows them to avoid costly expenses.

When the plane lands at the airport, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your power chairs for handicapped - mobilityscooters44321.webdesign96.com, wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to slide in the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you can disembark, and your wheelchair is returned to you at the nearest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge, or at the gate.

The idea of using an electric wheelchair can seem daunting, but with careful planning and adhering to guidelines, you can be able to experience the joy of exploring new places without difficulty. The most important thing to remember is that if not comfortable moving around in your chair, you will not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that traveling provides.

Check-Out

Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for people with mobility problems. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, however it's important to adhere to the guidelines of your airline for bringing and stowing your chair on the airplane. Contact the airline in advance to learn about their policies on power chair near me chairs and to inquire about any questions.

Most airlines will allow you to take a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight, so provided it's prepared for travel. Some airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will require a doctor's letter to allow you to travel with your electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also require that you take down the battery-powered part of your chair and place it into an enclosure that is protected.

Make sure you arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your flight. Bring any documents you need to the airport, such as your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will speed up check-in process and help avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.

On arrival at the airline's ticket counter or at the gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Discuss your wheelchair and any accessories you may require for example, sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage or whether it will be transported to the plane using a specialized cart. If you're transferring to the plane using your electric wheelchair, make sure to make a direct flight which will cut down on the number of times that your equipment will be transferred between different locations.

Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair like they do with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, you must capture a photo prior to leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.