Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Tools To Simplify Your Day-To-Day Life

Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are several aspects to be considered. Airport and airline staff will ask you numerous questions regarding your chair's dimensions, battery type and how to handle it.

Make sure you have all of these details in hand prior to you leave for the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that meet the regulations for air travel.

What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?

Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stowed on planes. They will typically have a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stored under the plane as checked luggage. They'll also be able to maneuver on rough surfaces such as deceleration stripes, gravel, roads that are muddy or brick. They could also be equipped with a patent-pending power drive system 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 up to the boarding gates. 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 an hour before your departure time which is crucial during busy travel times.

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

United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour prior to your flight to ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get assembly/disassembly information and other helpful information about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.

Safety

Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure secure and comfortable travel. These power chairs can be folded and are in line with airline standards for 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 help you plan your travel plans and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety and then place it into a carryon bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals aren't exposed, and that it is stowed upright.

Depending on your airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following details including your name address, number, and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it is lost or mishandled on your trip. You may also think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that help you remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airport and airline personnel.

It is recommended to arrive at at least two hours prior to the departure time you have scheduled to ensure proper stowage of your equipment is completed. Being earlier than that is even better if possible particularly during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This allows you to check in earlier and gives ample time for the airline representative to assist you in stowing your chair.

Before you travel and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you the leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for damages. Consider bringing along a seat cushion to make the flight as comfortable as you can. A seat cushion is essential for flights that will last more than an hour, since it will reduce the pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.

Check-In

The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline can be intimidating. Air travel with a power chair is achievable with proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.

Speak to an airline representative prior to booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best way to check into your seat whether at the counter for tickets or the gate. In any case, it is advised to arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and ensure that it will be safely towed to be ready for your trip.

Based on the power chair you have, it may be necessary for you to disassemble the chair prior to transportation. If this is the case, it is helpful to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly available to assist airline employees handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair. electric bariatric wheelchair This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. Also, remove any removable accessories and ensure whether all controls function before leaving for the airport.

Once you arrive at the airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging you a cost to store assistive devices like power wheelchairs. This is a great feature for those with disabilities since it allows them to save money.

After the plane has landed, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to one that is able to slide down the aircraft aisle. You can then disembark and your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or the gate.

The idea of using an electric chair can be daunting, but with careful planning and adhering to guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the thrill of exploring new places easily. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if uncomfortable in your chair, you'll never enjoy the freedom that traveling provides.

Check-Out

Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for passengers who have mobility issues. If you have an electric or wheelchair could make your travel experience 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. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your departure to inquire about their policy and to get any questions answered.

Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your trip as you've prepared it for travel. Some airlines may require you to discharge the batteries before boarding, and some may require you to have a doctor's recommendation in order to allow you to fly with your electric chair. Some airlines may also demand that you disassemble the battery powered portion of your chair and place it in a protective case.

When you arrive at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours before your scheduled departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, like your owner manual and any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will make it easier for the check-in process and can help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.

When you arrive at the airline ticket counter or at the gate, be sure you be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Discuss your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you might require like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether they will be storing your wheelchair in a special cart or examining it for stowage. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book a direct flight to minimize the number of times your device is moved between locations.

Once your wheelchair is in the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment, just like checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you extra to store your scooter or wheelchair like they do with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, be sure to take a photograph before you leave the airport and immediately inform the airline.