Why Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Is The Right Choice For You?
Why Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Is The Right Choice For You?
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are many things to take into consideration. The airport staff and at the airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to handle it.
Be sure to have this information in your possession prior to you head to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and stowed securely on airplanes. The FAA will approve them for air travel, and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. They will also be able navigate on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes, brick or muddy road. They may also be equipped with a patented drive system which allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the gates for boarding. It is important to contact the airline in advance to ensure they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate the requirements. Certain airlines require you to be at least an hour before the departure time you have scheduled This is crucial in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. This space is limited and operated on the basis of first-come-first-serve. Federal regulations also require that all extra batteries be inspected by a wheelchair or scooter. They must be removed unless they are designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also request to check-in at least an hour prior to your flight so that they can ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. In addition, they ask to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions and other helpful information about your mobility or power chair. scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are made for secure and comfortable travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold, and they 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. They can assist in preparing your itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety and then place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed, and that it is safely stowed upright.
Based on your airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following details including your name, address, phone number and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it gets lost or is mishandled during your journey. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will allow you to remain in your chair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. If you can be there earlier than two hours before the time you plan to depart. This is particularly important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This lets you check in early and provides ample time for the representative of the airline 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 the leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for damages. Consider bringing along a seat cushion to make the flight as comfortable as you can. Using a seat cushion is essential for flights that last longer than an hour, because it reduces pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline can be intimidating. Traveling with a power chair is possible with the proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Contact an airline representative before booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best method to check into your seat whether at the ticket counter or the gate. In either case, arriving one hour before your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure it is safely and properly stored for your trip.
Based on the power chair you have It could be necessary to disassemble it prior to transportation. In this instance it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the table to aid airline employees who handle your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your outdoor electric wheelchair chair, such as the owner's manual as well as warranty information. It is also recommended to remove any removable accessories and make sure that all controls work before you depart for the airport.
Once you arrive at an airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge you extra for stowing assistive devices like electric chairs. This is an excellent benefit for people with disabilities since it helps them avoid unnecessary costs.
A representative from the airline can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can be able to fit into the aircraft aisle when the plane arrives. You will then be able to get off the plane and your wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as you can in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
Traveling with an electric wheelchair can seem daunting, but with the right planning and adhering to guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new locations easily. It is important to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to enjoy the freedom it affords.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for passengers who have mobility issues. If you're using mobility scooters or wheelchairs could make your trip more enjoyable. However, it is essential to follow the airline's policies regarding bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact your airline before your trip to ask about their policy and get any questions answered.
Most airlines will allow you to take an electric wheelchair on your flight as you've prepared it for travel. Certain airlines might require you to recharge the batteries before boarding, and some may require you to have a doctor's recommendation in order to allow you to fly using your power chair. Certain airlines may also require that you take down the battery-powered portion of your chair, and place it in a case that is safe.
Once you're at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours prior to your departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. Bring any documents you need to the airport, like your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in and prevent confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
Upon arriving at the airline's ticket counter or at the gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any other accessories you might require, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or the possibility of transferring it to the plane using an adapted cart. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book an direct flight to cut down on the amount of times your equipment is moved between locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo compartment with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. Take a picture of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.