The One Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Trick Every Person Should Be Able To
The One Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Trick Every Person Should Be Able To
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to consider. The airport staff and the airline will inquire about your chair, its dimensions and battery type, as well as how to use it.
Be sure to have all this information at hand before you travel to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that comply with the requirements for air travel.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be carried 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. In addition they'll be able to move on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips, brick or roads that are muddy. They can also be equipped with a patented drive system that permits them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the gates for boarding. 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 those needs. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour ahead of your scheduled departure This is particularly important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes that allows for the stowage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. This space is limited and operated on an initial-come first-serve basis. The federal regulations also require that all extra batteries be checked with the wheelchair or scooter. They must be removed unless they are specifically designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to taking electric wheelchairs or scooters on their flights. They also require that you check in one hour prior to your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other information about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to offer a safe and convenient method of travel. These chairs are designed to fold and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling, and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can assist you in planning your travel itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date details regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety purposes and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is secured in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you fly with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, your address, your number, and the wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it is lost or damaged during your travels. You may want to buy aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will assist you in staying in your chair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours before your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. If you can, arrive at least two hours earlier than your scheduled departure time. This is especially important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This lets you check-in early and allows the airline representative plenty of time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair before you travel. This serves as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage in obtaining compensation for damages from the airline. You should also consider bringing a seat cushion with you to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as possible for you. A seat cushion is particularly important for flights that will last longer than an hour, because it reduces pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline may be daunting. Air travel with a power chair is possible with the proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Before booking your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can help you navigate in the right direction, regardless of whether you prefer to make your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it is advised to arrive at least one hour before your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure that it's safely stowed for your journey.
Depending on the kind of power chair you have, it may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. In this situation, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to assist the airline personnel who will handle your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair, including the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any detachable accessories before you travel to the airport, and to make sure all of the controls are working properly.
Once you arrive at an airport the electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra for the stowing of assistive devices like power chairs. This is a huge benefit for those who have disabilities, as it allows them to avoid unnecessary costs.
A representative from the airline can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit down the aisle of the aircraft when the plane arrives. Then, you can disembark, and your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the nearest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft or at the jetbridge or at the gate.
Traveling with an electric chair can be daunting, but with the right planning and adhering to the guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new destinations without difficulty. It is important to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair you won't be able to travel with the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for passengers who have mobility problems. If you're using mobility scooters or wheelchairs can make your trip more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's guidelines for bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your travels to ask about their policy and get any questions answered.
Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, so long as you prepare it to travel. Some airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a doctor's letter before they will allow you to fly with your electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery-powered part of your wheelchair, and place it into an enclosure that is protected.
Once you're at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the 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 the check-in process and help avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
If you are at the airline ticket counter or gate, make sure to explain your mobility needs clearly. Provide the type of wheelchair you have heavy duty power chair and any necessary accessories like cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be keeping your wheelchair in a separate cart or checking it for storage. If you're going to transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, try to book a direct flight, which will minimize the amount of times your equipment will be moved between various locations.
Once your wheelchair is in the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment, just like checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of your scooter or wheelchair just as they would with your luggage. Take a photograph of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.