Why Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Is Right For You
Why Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Is Right For You
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several aspects to take into consideration when traveling with a powered chair. Airport and airline staff will ask you numerous questions regarding your chair's dimensions, battery type and how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information ready before you go to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that comply with the regulations for air travel.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA will approve them for use on flights, and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. In addition they'll be able to maneuver on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or roads that are muddy. They could also be fitted with a patented drive system that allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the gate for boarding. It is important to contact the airline in advance to ensure that they are aware of any special needs and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate them. Certain airlines require you to be at least an hour before the departure time you have scheduled which is essential during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited and operates on the basis of first-come-first-serve. Federal regulations also require that all extra batteries be checked by the wheelchair or scooter. They must be disconnected unless they are specifically designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to you bring an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask that you check in one hour before your flight, to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather assembly/disassembly information and other helpful information regarding your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to provide the most secure and comfortable method of travel. These chairs are designed to fold up and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These experts can help you plan your itinerary and provide you with the latest information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Some airlines ask that you remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed and that it is safely placed upright.
Based on your airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following details such as your name address, number, and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it is lost or damaged during your travels. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will assist you in staying in your seat during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that the proper storage of your equipment is accomplished. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better, especially during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This allows you to check in earlier and gives plenty of time for the airline representative to assist you in 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 website help you in pursuing compensation for any damages from the airline. You should consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to make your flight as comfortable as possible. Using a seat cushion is particularly important for flights that last more than an hour, since it reduces 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. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is possible with the right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Speak to an airline representative prior to booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to get your seat at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour before your flight is suggested. This allows the airline plenty of time to inspect your equipment and ensure it will be safely towed for your trip.
Depending on your power chair It could be necessary to disassemble it prior to transport. In this situation, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the go to help airline personnel who will handle your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair. This read more includes the owner's guide and warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable accessories before you leave for the airport and also to ensure that all the controls are in working order.
Once you arrive at the airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and stowed. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you a cost to store assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for people with disabilities, because it can help them avoid costly expenses.
When the plane lands at the airport, an airline employee will be able to transfer you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to fit in the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you will be able to get off the plane and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as is possible, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It might be difficult to travel in an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines, you can enjoy exploring new places. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if not comfortable in your chair, you'll never enjoy the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for people who suffer from mobility problems. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the journey less stress-inducing for you, but it's important to adhere to the policies of your airline regarding bringing and stowing your chair on board the plane. Contact the airline in advance to find out their policy on power chairs, and to inquire about any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to take a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight as long as it's properly prepared for travel. Certain airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to taking off and others will need a doctor's letter prior to allowing you to fly with a electric wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require that you take down the battery powered portion of your wheelchair, and place it into an enclosure that is protected.
When you arrive at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documentation you might need to the airport, including your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will help speed up the check-in process and make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
On arrival at the airline's ticket counter or gate, make certain to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Explain the type of wheelchair you have and any accessories you require, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or whether it will be transported to the plane using an adapted cart. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book an direct flight to cut down on the number times your equipment is moved between places.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment along with your checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines get more info from charging you extra to store your scooter or wheelchair just as they would with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, be sure to take a picture of it before leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.