Why Adding A Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair To Your Life Will Make All The An Impact
Why Adding A Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair To Your Life Will Make All The An Impact
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are many aspects to be considered. The staff at the airport and airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair, battery type, and how to use it.
Make sure you have these details ready before you go to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that comply with air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are able to be safely transported and stowed on planes. They usually have a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stored under the plane as checked luggage. They will also be able move on rough surfaces, such as deceleration stripes, gravel, bricks or muddy roads. They could also have a patented power drive system that permits them to navigate in tight spaces, or lifts.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the boarding gates. It is important to contact the airline in advance to make sure they are aware of any special needs and to confirm that they are able to meet them. Certain airlines require that you arrive one hour prior to your scheduled departure time which is essential in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is not large enough, and it's first come, first serve. Federal regulations also require that all extra batteries be inspected by a wheelchair or scooter. They must be removed unless they are designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when you bring electric wheelchairs or scooters aboard their flights. They also request that you check-in an hour prior to your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent information about your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to provide a safe and convenient way to travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling, and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These experts can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines will require you to take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed and it is placed upright.
Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, your address, your phone number, and the wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it is stolen or mishandled during your journey. You might also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which allow you to remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airline and airport personnel.
You should arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to the departure time you have scheduled to ensure the proper stowage of your equipment is completed. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better particularly during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and allows the representative of the airline plenty of time to help you stow your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair prior to travel. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for any damages. You should consider bringing cushions to make your flight as comfortable as you can. Using a seat cushion is essential for flights that will last over an hour, as it will reduce pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane could be an overwhelming experience. However, with proper preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, air travel with a power chair is feasible.
Contact an airline representative before making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you in the best direction, no matter if you prefer to get your seat at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, it is advised to arrive at least one hour before your flight. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it is properly and properly stored for your journey.
Based on the model of power chair you have It could be necessary to disassemble it for transport. If this is the case, it is important to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions available to assist airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any removable items and make sure that all controls work before you leave for the airport.
When you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and then stowed. The airlines are not allowed to charging you an additional cost to store assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is a great benefit for passengers with disabilities since they can avoid costly expenses.
An airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit down the aisle of the aircraft when the plane lands. You can then disembark and your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the shortest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft or at the jetbridge or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with the proper planning and following the guidelines you can have fun exploring new places. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you are not comfortable in your chair, you'll not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that traveling affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for people who have mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, however it is important to follow your airline's policies for the transportation and storage of your chair on board the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact the airline prior to your travels to inquire about their policies and get any questions answered.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair for your flight, as long as you prepare electric scooter wheelchair it for travel. Some airlines require that you charge the batteries prior to boarding and others will need a doctor's letter prior to allowing you to fly with your electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also require that you remove the battery powered portion of your chair and place it into a case that is safe.
Get to the airport at minimum two hours prior to your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your departure. Bring any documentation you might require to the airport, including your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will speed up check-in process and avoid confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you reach the counter for tickets to airline or at the gate, be sure you explain your mobility needs clearly. Explain the kind of wheelchair you own and any other accessories you may require, such as cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage or whether it will be transported to the aircraft with a specialized cart. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book an direct flight to cut down on the number times your equipment is moved between locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane it will be stored in the cargo compartment, just like checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. Take a picture of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.