Why Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Could Be Your Next Big Obsession
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric WheelchairWhen you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are many aspects to be considered. The airport staff and at the airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to use it.
Make sure you have these details ready prior to your trip to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and stowed safely on airplanes. The FAA will allow them to be used for air travel and they can be kept in the airplane as checked baggage. Additionally they'll be able to move on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or roads that are muddy. They may also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending which allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter until the boarding gate. However, it is important to contact them prior to time to ensure they are aware of your needs and to confirm that they are able to meet those needs. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour ahead of your scheduled departure which is crucial during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes for the stowage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. This space is limited, and it's first come, first served. The federal regulations also require that all extra batteries be checked with the scooter or wheelchair. They must be shut off unless they are specifically designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when you bring electric wheelchairs or scooters aboard their flights. They also require to check-in at least an hour prior to your flight to ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. Additionally, they request to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions and other helpful information regarding your mobility or power chair. scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed for safe and convenient travel. These power chairs are made to fold up and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and storage. 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 latest information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety purposes and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is securely tucked away in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, your address, your number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it is stolen or mishandled during your journey. You might also consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which aid you in staying in your wheelchair while you travel with airline and airport personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. If possible you can arrive earlier than two hours prior to your scheduled departure time. This is especially crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This allows you to check in earlier and gives plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair prior to traveling. This can be used as proof in the event that your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for any damages from the airline. read more You should consider bringing a seat cushion to make your flight as comfortable as you possibly can. The use of a cushion for your seat is particularly important for flights that last over an hour, as this will minimize pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
The procedure of check here boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be daunting. Air travel with a power chair is possible with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Before booking your flight, talk to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best way to check-in your chair, whether it is at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it is recommended that you arrive at least one hour prior to your flight. This gives the airline ample time to inspect your equipment and ensure that it will be safely towed for your trip.
Based on the model of chair you own It may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. In this situation it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the table to aid airline employees who handle your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety here and maintenance documents to your chair, like the owner's manual as well as warranty information. You should also take off any removable items and ensure that all controls are functioning before leaving for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and stowed. The airlines are not allowed to charging you an additional cost to store assistive devices like power wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for people with disabilities since they can avoid unnecessary electric wheel chairs costs.
When the plane lands at the airport, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to slide down the aircraft aisle. Then, you can disembark, and your wheelchair is returned to you at the shortest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft or at the jetbridge or 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. It is important to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to travel with the freedom it affords.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for passengers who suffer from mobility problems. If you have a wheelchair or a scooter can make your experience more enjoyable. However, it is crucial to adhere to the airline's guidelines regarding taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline in advance to inquire about their policy on power chairs, and to ask any questions.
Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair on your flight, so that you prepare it to travel. Some airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will need a doctor's letter prior to allowing you to fly with your power wheelchair. Some airlines will also require you to take apart the battery-powered part of your wheelchair and place it in a protective case.
When you arrive at the airport, make sure you arrive at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documents you require to the airport, such as your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will speed up the get more info check-in and prevent confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
When you reach the counter for tickets to airline or gate, be sure to explain your mobility needs clearly. Discuss your wheelchair and any other accessories you may need, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be storing your wheelchair in a special cart or checking it for storage. If you're transferring to the plane with your electric wheelchair, try to take a direct flight which will reduce the amount of times your equipment will be transferred between locations.
Once your wheelchair is in the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment along with your checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you additional fees for the storage of your scooter or wheelchair, like they do with your luggage. Take a photo of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.