The Often Unknown Benefits Of Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
The Often Unknown Benefits Of Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are many things to consider. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you numerous questions regarding your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have these details ready prior to your trip to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that comply with the requirements for air travel.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are able to be safely transported and stored on planes. They will typically have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to navigate on rough surfaces like deceleration stripes, gravel, bricks or muddy roads. They may also have a patent-pending power drive system that enables them to move in tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the boarding gate. It is essential to contact the airline prior to your departure to ensure that they are aware of any specific requirements and to confirm that they are able to meet the requirements. Some airlines require you to arrive one hour prior to the departure time you have scheduled which is essential during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. This space is limited and on a first-come, first-serve basis. The federal regulations also demand that any additional batteries be checked with the scooter or wheelchair. They must be disconnected unless they are specifically designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask that you check in one hour prior to your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful information regarding your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure comfortable and safe travel. These power chairs can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline standards for battery size, handling and stowage. If you plan to fly with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most current details regarding battery requirements. They can also give you assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines ask that you remove your wheelchair's battery to ensure safety and put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed, and that it is placed upright.
Depending on the airline you use depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, address, your phone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment in case it is lost or damaged during your trip. You may also consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which allow you to remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airport and airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. If you are able, arrive earlier than two hours before the time you plan to depart. This is particularly crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This allows you to check in early and provides ample time for the airline representative to assist you with stowing your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair before you travel. This will serve as proof if your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you the ability to seek 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 particularly important when you travel for more than an hour, since it will reduce the pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be intimidating. However, with proper preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, air travel using your electric chair is feasible.
Speak to an airline representative prior to making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They will be able to help you navigate in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to check-in your seat at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour prior to your flight is suggested. This allows the airline plenty of time to examine your equipment and make sure that it will be stowed safely for your trip.
Based on the model of chair you own It may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. In this case it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in hand to assist the airline personnel who will handle your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any accessories that can be removed prior to when you leave for the airport, and to make sure all the controls are functioning properly.
Once you arrive at an airport the electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and then stowed. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra fees for stowing assistive devices such as power chairs. This is an excellent benefit for people with disabilities, as it helps them avoid costly expenses.
A representative from the airline can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that will fit on the aisle of the aircraft once the plane arrives. Then, you can disembark, and your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the shortest possible location to the door of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or the gate.
A trip with an electric chair can be intimidating, but with proper planning and adhering to guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new locations without difficulty. The most important thing to remember is that if you're not comfortable in your chair, you will never enjoy the freedom that traveling offers.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for people who suffer from mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the trip less stress-inducing for you, but it is important to follow your airline's policies for the transportation and storage of your chair on board the plane. Contact the airline ahead of time to learn about their policies regarding power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, as that you prepare it correctly for travel. Some airlines might require you to charge the batteries before boarding, and some will require you to have a doctor's recommendation on file before they will allow you to fly using your power chair. Some airlines may also require that you take down the battery-powered part of your chair, and then place it in a case that is safe.
When you arrive at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, like click here the owner's manual as well as any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid to the airport. This will help speed up the check-in process and can prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
When you arrive at the ticket counter of your airline or gate, be sure to explain your mobility needs clearly. Explain your wheelchair and any accessories you might require like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or the possibility of transferring it to the plane using a specialized cart. If you're taking a transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, you should try to book a direct flight, which will cut down on the number of times your equipment will be transferred between different locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo area along with other 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 just as they would with your luggage. Take a photograph of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.