Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are many aspects to be considered. The airport staff and at the airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Be sure to have all of this information at hand before you head to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with air travel regulations.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and safely stowed on airplanes. They usually have a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be tucked under the plane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to navigate on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration stripes roads that are muddy or brick. They may also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending which 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. It is however important to contact them prior to time to make sure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet your needs. Some airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to your scheduled departure, which is especially important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes that allows for the stowage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited and on a first-come, first-serve basis. They also require that any extra batteries be checked as part of the wheelchair or scooter, since federal regulations require that they are disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with an effective design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before you bring an
electric power chairs for sale wheelchair or scooter aboard their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour prior to your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions and other helpful information about your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to offer a safe and convenient way to travel. These chairs are designed to fold, and they comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling, and stowage. If you're planning to fly with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can assist you in planning your trip and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety. You can then put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed, and that it is safely placed upright.
Depending on the airline you use depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, your address, your phone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment in case it gets lost or mishandled during your trip. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will assist you in staying in your chair during transfers with airport personnel and airline personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. If you can be there earlier than two hours before your departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and gives the airline representative ample time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you travel, take a picture of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your device is damaged during your flight. This will give you ability to seek compensation from the airline in case of damages. It is also advisable to bring a seat cushion with you, so that the flight is as relaxing as possible for you. Seat cushions are especially important for flights lasting over an hour. They reduce the pressure on your skin preventing soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an
Electric Powered Wheelchairs For Sale wheelchair that is accepted by the airline can be a daunting task. Traveling with a power chair is feasible with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Speak to an airline representative before making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to make your seat at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, it is advised to arrive at least one hour prior to your flight. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and ensure that it is safely stored for your journey.
Based on the power chair you have It may be necessary to disassemble it before it is transported. In this instance it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the go to help airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. You should also remove any removable accessories and ensure that all controls are functioning before you depart for the airport.
Once you arrive at the airport the electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and then stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge you extra for the stowing of assistive devices like electric chairs. This is a great benefit for those with disabilities as they can save money.
An airline employee can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit down the aircraft aisle when the plane arrives. You will then be able to disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as you can, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
A trip with an electric wheelchair may seem daunting, but with careful planning and adherence to guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the thrill of exploring new places without difficulty. It is important to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair, you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for people who suffer from mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stress-inducing for you, but it's important to adhere to your airline's policies for transporting and stowing your chair on board the plane. If you're traveling with an
discount electric wheelchairs chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your departure to ask about their policy and get any questions answered.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair for your flight, so long as you prepare it properly for travel. Certain airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a physician's letter to allow you to fly with a electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also demand that you disassemble the battery powered portion of your wheelchair, and place it in a case that is safe.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before flight. Bring any documentation you might require to the airport, like your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will speed up check-in process and help avoid confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
If you are at the ticket counter of your airline or at the gate, be sure to be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide a description of your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you might require, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be placing your
lightweight wheelchair electric in a specific cart or examining it for storage. If you're taking a transfer to the plane with your
heavy duty electric wheelchair uk wheelchair, you should try to take a direct flight which will minimize the number of times that your equipment will be moved between different locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo area along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you extra to store your scooter or wheelchair, the same way they would with your luggage. Take a photograph of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.
