Your-Family-Will-Be-Grateful-For-Having-This-Airline-Approved-Electric-Wheelchair-z

Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are many things to consider. The airport staff and the airline will inquire about your chair, its dimensions and battery type, as well as how to handle it.

Make sure you have all this information in your possession prior to you head to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that comply with the requirements for air travel.

What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?

Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and stowed safely on planes. The FAA will approve them for travel on planes and they can be stowed under the plane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to maneuver on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration stripes bricks or muddy roads. They may also be equipped with a patented drive system which allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.

Airlines will assist you with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter to the gate to board. However, it is important to contact them ahead of time to ensure they are aware of your requirements and confirm that they can meet those needs. Certain airlines require you to be at least an hour before your scheduled departure time which is essential during peak travel times.

Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes for the stowage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is limited and operated on an initial-come first-serve basis. They also require that any extra batteries be checked as part of the scooter or wheelchair, since federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless the chair is equipped with an effective design to prevent unintentional activation.

United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to taking electric wheelchairs or scooters aboard their flights. They also require that you check in an hour prior to your flight so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent details about your power chair or mobility scooter.





Safety

Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure comfortable and safe travel. These power chairs can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines 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 assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. electric wheelchair chair can also give you instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety and then place it into a carryon bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not 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 details: your name address, address, phone 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 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 during transfers with airline and airport personnel.

Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. 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 serves as proof if your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you the ability to seek compensation from the airline in case of damages. You should also think about bringing cushions for your seats to ensure that your flight is as relaxing as possible for you. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights lasting over an hour. They reduce pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.

Check-In

The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline may be a daunting task. Traveling with a power chair is feasible with right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.

Contact an airline representative before booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They will be able to guide you in the right direction, whether you prefer to get your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour before your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure that it is properly stored for your journey.

Based on the model of power chair you have, it may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. In this case, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the table to aid airline personnel handling your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair, like the owner's manual or warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any accessories that can be removed prior to when you travel to the airport and also to ensure that all the controls are in working order.

Once you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and then stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra fees for the stowing of assistive devices such as power chairs. This is an excellent benefit for people with disabilities, because it can help 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 powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to slide in the aisle of the aircraft. You can then disembark and your wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft or at the jetbridge or the gate.

It can be a bit daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with the right planning and following guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new places. It is important to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to enjoy the freedom it provides.

Check-Out

Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for those who have mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, however it's essential to follow the guidelines of your airline for bringing and stowing your chair on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to learn about their policies on power chairs, and to ask any questions.

Many airlines will allow you to take a motorized wheelchair with you on your trip as provided it's prepared for travel. Some airlines might require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and some may require you to have a doctor's note in order to let you fly with your motorized chair. Certain airlines may also require that you remove the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair, and place it into an enclosure that is protected.

When you arrive at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documentation you might need to the airport, including your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will speed up check-in and prevent confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.

When you reach the counter for tickets to airline or at the gate, be sure you communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Discuss your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you may require like seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be placing your wheelchair in a specific cart or examining it for storage. If you're transferring to the plane using your electric wheelchair, make sure to book a direct flight, which will minimize the number of times your equipment will be moved between various locations.

After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment along with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra to store your wheelchair or scooter, like they do with your luggage. Take a photograph of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.