What Is Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair And Why Is Everyone Talking About It?
What Is Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair And Why Is Everyone Talking About It?
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are several things to take into consideration. Airport and airline staff will ask you many questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have these details in hand prior to you head to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that are compliant with the requirements for air travel.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are able to be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA can approve them for use on flights, and they can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. They will also be able navigate on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration stripes bricks or muddy roads. They could also have a patented power drive system that permits them to move in tight spaces or lifts.
Airlines will provide assistance for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the boarding gate. It is important to contact the airline in advance to ensure that they are aware of any special needs and confirm that they are able to meet these requirements. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour before the time of departure, which is especially important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is limited and it's first come, first served. They also require that any additional batteries be checked as part of the scooter or wheelchair since federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless the chair is equipped with a safe design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to you bring an electric wheelchair or scooter aboard their flights. They also request that you check-in an hour prior to your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions as well as other useful details about your mobility or power chair. 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 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 experts can assist you in planning your travel itinerary and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines 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 done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is secured in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you use, you may need to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, your address, your telephone number, and your wheelchair model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it is lost or damaged during your trip. You might also consider purchasing aftermarket slings like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which aid you in staying in your wheelchair during transfers with airline and airport personnel.
You should arrive at the airport 2 hours prior to your departure to ensure proper equipment storage. If possible you can arrive earlier than two hours prior to your scheduled departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This lets you check-in early and gives the airline representative plenty of time to help you stow your chair.
Before you travel to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for damages. It is also advisable to bring an extra cushion for your seat so that your journey is as comfortable as it can be for you. The use of a cushion for your seat is especially important for flights that last longer than an hour, because this will minimize pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline can be a daunting task. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is achievable with proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Before booking your flight, speak to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best method to check into your seat regardless of whether it's at the counter for more info tickets or at the gate. In either case, it's recommended that you arrive at least one hour prior to your flight. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and ensure it will be stowed safely for your journey.
Depending on the model of your power chair, it may be necessary for you to disassemble it before it is transported. In this instance it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the go to help airline employees who handle your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair, such as the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any accessories that can be removed prior to when you leave for the airport and to ensure all controls are functioning properly.
When you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra fees to store assistive devices, such as power chairs. This is a great benefit for passengers with disabilities as they can avoid costly expenses.
When the plane lands, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to one that is able to slide into the aisle of the aircraft. You will then be able to board the plane, and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as is possible in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
A trip with an electric wheelchair may seem daunting, but with the right planning and adhering to the guidelines, you can be able to experience the joy of exploring new locations without difficulty. It is essential to keep in mind that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to enjoy the freedom it affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be very stressful for those with mobility issues. If you have mobility scooters or wheelchairs can make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's policies regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. Contact the airline ahead of time to learn about their policies on power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Most airlines allow you to bring an electric chair on your flight, so provided you prepare it for travel. Some airlines might require you to discharge the batteries before boarding, and some will require you to have a medical note in order to allow you to fly using your power chair. Certain airlines may also require that you remove the battery-powered portion of your chair and then place it in a protective case.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before flight. Bring any documentation you may require to the airport, like your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will make it easier for the process of checking in and will make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
When you reach the counter for tickets to airline or at the gate, be sure to be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Explain your wheelchair and any accessories you may need like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether they will be keeping your wheelchair in a specific cart or checking it for stowage. If you're transferring to the plane using your electric wheelchair, make sure to book a direct flight, which will minimize the number of times that your equipment will be transferred between different locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment read more with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits lightweight wheelchairs electric airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of your scooter or wheelchair, just as they would with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, be sure to capture a photo prior to leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.