10 Things That Everyone Doesn't Get Right About Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
10 Things That Everyone Doesn't Get Right About Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many aspects to take into consideration when traveling with an electric chair. The staff at the airport and the airline will inquire about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to use it.
Make sure you have this information ready before you go to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that meet the requirements for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are those that can 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 stowed underneath the plane as checked baggage. They can also move on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration stripes, roads that are muddy or brick. They could also be fitted with a unique drive system which allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter until the boarding gate. It is essential to call the airline ahead of time to ensure they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate them. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour before your scheduled departure time which is essential during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes that allows for the stowage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited and on an initial-come first-serve basis. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected in conjunction with the wheelchair or scooter, as federal regulations require that they be disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with an effective design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also require that you check in an hour before your flight, so they can ensure the proper handling of 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 regarding your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to provide a safe and convenient method of travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold, and they meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling, and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the latest details regarding battery requirements. They can also give you assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is safely stowed in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you use depending on your airline, you might be asked to label your wheelchair with the following information including your name, address, phone number, and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it is lost or damaged during your travels. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to assist you in staying in your seat during transfers with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours before your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. Being earlier than that is even better, especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This lets you check-in early and allows the representative of the airline plenty of time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you leave and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage in obtaining compensation for the damages from the airline. Consider bringing along a seat cushion to make the flight as comfortable here as you can. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights lasting over an hour. They check here will reduce the pressure on your skin making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
For those who travel using an approved airline electric wheelchair, getting on a plane is a daunting prospect. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is possible with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, talk to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They will be able to help you navigate in the right direction, whether you prefer to get your seat at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour prior to your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it's safely stored for your journey.
Depending on the type of power chair you have, it may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. If this is the case, it is important to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly in order to aid the airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any removable items and make sure whether all controls function before you depart for the airport.
Once you arrive at an airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and then stowed. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra fees to store assistive devices, such as electric chairs. This is a great benefit for people with disabilities since it allows them to save money.
An airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can be able electric lightweight wheelchair to fit into the aisle of the aircraft when the plane arrives. You will then be able to get off the plane and your power wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as is possible in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
It might be difficult to travel with an electric chair, but with the proper planning and following the guidelines you can have fun exploring new places. It is important to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to travel with the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for those with mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stressful for you, but it's important to adhere to your airline's policies for bringing and stowing your chair on board the airplane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact your airline prior to your departure to inquire about their policy and ask any questions.
Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair on your flight, so that you prepare it correctly for travel. Certain website airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will need a doctor's letter before they will allow you to travel with your powered wheelchair. Some airlines may also require you to remove the battery-powered part of your chair and put it inside a protective case.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours before the time of departure to ensure that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before departure. It's recommended to bring any documentation, such as the owner's manual as well as any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will help speed up the check-in process and make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
On arrival at the airline's ticket counter or at the gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any accessories you might require for example, seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they electric small wheelchair will be storing your wheelchair in a separate cart or checking it for stowage. If you're going to transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, try to book a direct flight, which will cut down on the amount of times your equipment will be moved between various locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo compartment with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair, like they do with your luggage. Take a photograph of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.