Collins Aerospace has updated the design, functionality and passenger experience of its Prime wheelchair securement system, which enables users of electric wheelchairs to remain in their own chair on commercial flights. Electric wheelchairs are secured to the aircraft floor using an industry-standard ‘roll on, lock down’ tie-down system commonly found in many ground transportation systems, ensuring user familiarity, personal safety and convenience.
Incorporating direct feedback from passengers with reduced mobility (PRM), airlines and technical advisors, the enhanced design uses a custom transformable cabin monument to provide modern passenger amenities when PRM usage is required – or a flexible crew service station when a wheelchair is not in place.
The monument houses passenger amenities including a height-adjustable tray table with integrated tablet holder, power outlets, and a passenger service unit with reading light, attendant call button and public address speaker, among other features.
When in service mode, the Prime solution deploys to provide crews with additional service space, room below to store a half-sized trolley cart and additional stowage space inside the monument itself. Once service concludes, the monument easily converts into a passenger self-service station, capable of holding snacks and beverages.
Collins says the functional design of the solution has been carefully considered, to ensure simplified boarding and deplaning for electric wheelchair users, ease of use for cabin crews, and no loss of seat count for airlines.
“The feedback we’ve received has been invaluable, and the driving force behind the design and experiential upgrades made to Prime over the last 10 months,” said Cynthia Muklevicz, vice president of customer and business development for Collins Aerospace. “The user experience is not only on par with flight amenities enjoyed by every other passenger, but further considerations were implemented to ensure emergency egress standards are met, and a caregiver can occupy the seat directly next to the Prime user.”
