The Myths And Facts Behind Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
The Myths And Facts Behind Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few things to consider when traveling with powered chairs. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you a lot of questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information prepared before you travel to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that comply with air travel regulations.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA will approve them for air travel and they can be kept under the plane as checked baggage. They can also navigate on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes roads that are muddy or brick. They can also be equipped with a unique drive system that allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the gate to board. It is essential to contact the airline prior to your departure to make sure they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate these requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive at least an hour prior to your scheduled departure, which is especially important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage and storage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is not large enough, and it's first come first served. Federal regulations also require that all extra batteries be inspected by a wheelchair or scooter. They must be disconnected unless they are designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also request to check-in one hour before your flight so that they can ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful details about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure safe and convenient travel. These power chairs are made to fold up and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can help you plan your itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide you with instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines ask that you take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that the battery is secured in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you fly with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, address, your phone number, and the wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it gets lost or mishandled during your trip. You might also consider purchasing aftermarket slings like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that aid you in staying in your wheelchair when you transfer with airline and airport personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at two hours before the departure time you have scheduled to ensure that proper stowage of your equipment is done. Being earlier than that is even better if possible especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and provides plenty of time for the airline representative to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair before you travel. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for damages. here You should consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to make the trip as comfortable as you can. The use of a cushion for your seat is essential when you travel for more than an hour, since this will minimize the pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline may be intimidating. Traveling with a power chair is possible with the proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, speak to check here an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best method to check into your seat whether at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it is recommended that you arrive at least one hour before your flight. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure it is safely stowed for your trip.
Depending on your power chair It could be necessary for you to disassemble it prior to transportation. If this is the case, it is important to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions in order to aid the airline employees handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. Also, remove any removable accessories and make sure that all controls are functioning click here before you leave for the airport.
Once you arrive at the airport your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and then stowed. Airlines are more info not permitted to charge extra to store assistive devices, such as power chairs. This is a wonderful benefit for people with disabilities, because it can help them save money.
A representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which will fit on the aircraft aisle when the plane lands. Then, you will be able to get off the plane and your power wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as is possible in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
It might be difficult to travel in an electric chair, but with the right planning and following guidelines, you can enjoy exploring new locations. The most important thing to remember is that if not comfortable in your chair, you'll not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that travel affords.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for those who have mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stress-inducing for you, but it is important to follow the policies of your airline regarding bringing and stowing your chair on board the airplane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact the airline prior to your travels to inquire about their policies and ask any questions.
Most airlines will allow you to bring an electric wheelchair on your flight as long as it's properly prepared for travel. Some airlines may require you to charge the batteries prior to boarding and some may require you to have a doctor's note on file before they will allow you to fly with your electric chair. Some airlines may also require you to disassemble the battery-powered component of your chair and then place it inside a protective case.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your departure. It's important to bring any documentation, including your owner manual and any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up check-in and prevent confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the ticket counter of your airline or gate, make sure to explain your mobility needs clearly. Discuss your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you might require for example, sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage or if it will be transferred to the aircraft with an appropriate cart. If you're taking a transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, try to take a direct flight which will reduce the get more info number of times that your equipment will be moved between various locations.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment as checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you additional fees for the storage of your scooter or wheelchair, the same way they would with your luggage. Take a photograph of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.