Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Tips From The Best In The Business
Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Tips From The Best In The Business
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few things you should consider when traveling with a powered chair. Airport and airline staff will ask you a lot of questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information prepared before you travel to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that meet the requirements for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA will approve them for air travel, and they can be kept under the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore they'll be able to maneuver on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips, brick or muddy roads. They can also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending that allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the boarding gate. It is important to contact the airline in advance to ensure they are aware of any specific requirements and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate them. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of your scheduled departure, which is especially important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. This space is limited and is first come, first served. They also require that any extra batteries be checked as part of the scooter or wheelchair because federal regulations require they must be removed from the device unless the chair is equipped with an effective design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before you bring electric wheelchairs or scooters on their flights. They also ask to check-in one hour prior to your flight so that they can ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain assembly/disassembly information and other helpful information regarding your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to offer a safe and convenient method of travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold, and they meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and storage. If you're planning to travel with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can help you plan your travel plans and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety purposes and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed and that it is stored upright.
Depending on your airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following details including your name address, address, phone number, and model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment in case it is lost or damaged during your trip. You might want to consider purchasing 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.
You should arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that the proper stowage of your equipment is completed. Being earlier than that is even better if possible, especially during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and provides plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you leave, take a picture of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during the flight. This will give you the leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for damages. Consider bringing along an extra cushion for your seat to make the flight as comfortable as possible. Cushions for seats are essential when you travel for more than an hour. They reduce pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be a daunting task. However, with proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, flying using your electric chair is attainable.
Before booking your flight, talk to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They can guide you in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to get your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour before your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it's safely stored to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the type of power chair you have It could be necessary to disassemble the chair for 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. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair, including the owner's manual as well as warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable items prior to you go to the airport and also to ensure that all the controls are functioning properly.
When you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra fees for the stowing of assistive devices like electric chairs. This is a huge benefit for passengers with disabilities as it helps them avoid costly expenses.
After the plane has landed, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit down the aircraft aisle. Then, you will be able to board the plane, and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as you can or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
A trip with an electric chair can be daunting, but with careful planning and adhering to guidelines, you can be able to experience the joy of exploring new locations with ease. It is important to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to enjoy the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for people who have mobility problems. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, but it's important to adhere to the policies of your airline regarding transporting and stowing your chair on the plane. Contact the airline in advance to inquire about their policy on power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Most airlines will allow you to bring an electric wheelchair on your flight, so provided it's prepared for travel. Certain airlines might require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and some will require you to have a doctor's recommendation on file prior to being able to allow you to fly using your power chair. Some airlines will also require you to disassemble the battery-powered component of your wheelchair and place it inside a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, be 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, like your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will help speed up the process of checking in and will make sure that there is no confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.
When you arrive at the airline's ticket counter or at the gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Explain your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you may require for example, seats or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be storing your wheelchair in a special cart or examining it for stowage. If you're going to transfer to the plane with wheelchairs electric for sale your electric wheelchair, try to take a direct flight which will cut down on the amount of times your equipment will be transferred between locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane it will be stored in the cargo compartment as checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. Take a picture of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.