Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Tools To Improve Your Everyday Life
Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Tools To Improve Your Everyday Life
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When 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 numerous questions regarding your chair's dimensions, battery type and how it should be handled.
Make sure you have this information ready prior to your trip to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines can be safely transported and stowed on planes. The FAA can approve them for air travel, and they can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. In addition they'll be able to navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips brick or roads that are muddy. They can also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending that allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the gates for boarding. It is important to contact the airline prior to your departure to ensure they are aware of any specific needs and confirm that they can meet these requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour before your scheduled departure time which is essential during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is limited and operates on an initial-come first-serve basis. The federal regulations also require that any additional batteries be checked with the wheelchair or scooter. They must be disconnected unless they are designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require to check-in one hour prior to your flight to ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful information about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed for secure and comfortable travel. They can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline guidelines for battery size handling, stowage, and handling. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in preparing your itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines ask that you remove your wheelchair's battery to ensure safety and put it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is secured in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you use, you may need to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, address, your number, and the wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it gets lost or is mishandled on your trip. You might also think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will allow you to remain in your wheelchair while you travel 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 at least two hours earlier than your scheduled departure time. This is especially crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This allows you to check in early and provides ample time for the representative of the airline to assist you with stowing your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair prior to travel. This will serve as proof if your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you ability to seek compensation from the airline in case of damages. You should consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to make your flight as comfortable as you can. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights that last more than an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin lightweight wheelchairs electric and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been accepted by the airline can be intimidating. However, with the proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, traveling using your electric chair is feasible.
Speak to an airline representative before booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can help you navigate in the right direction, whether you prefer to check-in your seat at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it's recommended to arrive at least one hour prior to your flight. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and ensure it will be safely towed for your journey.
Based on the power chair you have, it may be necessary to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it is beneficial to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly available to assist airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. Also, take off any removable items and check that all controls are functioning before leaving for the airport.
Once you arrive at the airport the electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and then stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge you extra for stowing assistive devices such as power chairs. This is a huge benefit for passengers with disabilities as it allows them to avoid unnecessary costs.
A representative from the airline can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair 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 closest to the plane's door as is possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with the proper planning and following the guidelines you can have fun exploring new destinations. The most important thing to remember is that if you are uncomfortable in your chair, you'll never be able to enjoy the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for passengers with mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, however it's important to adhere to the guidelines of your airline for transporting and stowing your chair on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact your airline before your trip to inquire about their policies and ask any questions.
Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair for your flight, as provided you prepare it correctly to travel. Some airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a doctor's letter prior to allowing you to fly with a electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery powered portion of your wheelchair, and then place it in a case that is safe.
When you arrive at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours before the time of departure so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documents you need to the airport, like your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will make it easier for the check-in process and prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
If you are at the ticket counter of your airline or gate, make sure you explain your mobility needs clearly. Provide the type of wheelchair you have and any accessories you require like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or if it will be transferred to the aircraft using an adapted 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 moved between various locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo compartment along with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment arrives damaged, be sure to capture a photo prior to leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.