The Reasons Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Is Harder Than You Think
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric WheelchairWhen you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are a few aspects to be considered. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you many questions about your chair's dimensions, battery type and how it should be handled.
Be sure to have these details in hand prior to you leave for the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that comply with air travel regulations.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are those that can 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 such as gravel, deceleration stripes roads that are muddy or brick. They may also be equipped with a patented drive system that allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the gate to board. It is essential to call the airline ahead of time to ensure they are aware of any specific requirements and to confirm that they can meet the requirements. Some airlines require you to arrive an hour before your departure time This is crucial during busy travel periods.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is limited and it's first come, first serve. They also require that any extra batteries be checked as part of the wheelchair or scooter, since federal regulations require that they are disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with an effective design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair on their flights. They also request that you check-in an hour before your flight, to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request 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
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to offer a safe and convenient way to travel. These chairs are designed to fold up and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist in planning your itinerary and give you the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide you with assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair for safety purposes and place it into a carryon bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is safely stowed in a upright position.
Based on your airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following information: your name address, address, phone number, and model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment in case it should become lost or mishandled during your trip. You may also consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that aid you in staying in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the time get more info of departure to ensure the proper stowage of your equipment is accomplished. If you are able, arrive at least two hours earlier than your departure time. This is especially important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This lets you check-in early and allows the representative of the airline plenty of time to help you stow your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair before you travel. This can electric lightweight wheelchairs be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will help you in pursuing compensation for the damages from the airline. You should also consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to ensure that your flight is as relaxing as possible for you. Seat cushions are especially important for flights lasting over an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, the process of boarding a plane can be a daunting prospect. Air travel with a power chair is feasible with right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Contact an airline representative prior to booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to make your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour before your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it is properly stored for your trip.
Depending on the type of power 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 personnel who will handle your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any detachable accessories before you leave for the airport and also to ensure that all controls are functioning properly.
When you arrive at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the plane. Airlines are not permitted to charge you extra for the stowing of assistive devices like electric chairs. This is a here great feature for passengers with disabilities, since it allows them to avoid costly expenses.
A representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which will fit on the aisle of the aircraft once the plane lands. Then, you will be able to get off the plane and your wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as you can, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It might be difficult to travel in an electric chair, but with right planning and following the rules you can have fun exploring new places. It is crucial to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to travel with the freedom it affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for people with mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, however it is important to follow the guidelines of your airline for bringing and stowing your chair on board the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to inquire about their policy on power chairs, and to inquire about any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair for your flight, as provided you prepare it for travel. Certain airlines may require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and some will need to have a doctor's note in order to allow you to fly using your electric chair. Some airlines may also require you to remove the battery-powered component of your chair and put it inside a protective case.
Arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your flight. It's important to bring any documentation, like your owner manual and any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up check-in process and avoid confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
If you are at the ticket counter of your airline or at the gate, be sure to communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Explain your wheelchair and any accessories you may require for example, seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be here examining your wheelchair for stowage or if it will be transferred to the aircraft using an appropriate read more cart. If you're taking a transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to take a direct flight which will minimize the number of times that your equipment will be transferred between locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment along with your checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. Take a photo of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.