It's The Myths And Facts Behind Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
It's The Myths And Facts Behind Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are many things to consider. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you a lot of questions regarding your chair's dimensions, battery type and how it should be handled.
Make sure you have these details ready before you go to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that comply with the requirements for air travel.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and stowed securely on airplanes. They typically come with non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stowed underneath the plane as checked luggage. Additionally, they will be able to move on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or roads that are muddy. They may also have a patented power drive system that allows them to move in tight spaces or lifts.
Airlines will assist you with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the gate for boarding. It is essential to contact the airline in advance to ensure they are aware of any specific needs and confirm that they will be able to accommodate these requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour ahead of your scheduled departure which is crucial during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is not large enough and is first come, first serve. They also require that any extra batteries be checked as part of the wheelchair or scooter, because federal regulations require they are disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a safe design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to taking electric wheelchairs or scooters aboard their flights. They also require that you check in an hour before your flight, to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other details about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to provide a safe and convenient method of travel. These electric chairs can be folded and comply with airline standards for battery size handling, stowage, and handling. If you're planning to fly with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These experts can help you plan your travel itinerary and provide you with the latest details regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair for safety purposes and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed, and that it is stored upright.
Depending on the airline you use depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, your address, your number, and your wheelchair model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment if it is lost or mishandled during your trip. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to help you remain in your chair while you travel with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
You should always arrive at the airport at two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that the proper stowage of your equipment is done. Being earlier than that is even better especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This lets you check-in early and gives the representative of the airline plenty of time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you travel and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your device is damaged during your flight. This will give you possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for damages. You should also consider bringing a seat cushion with you so that your journey is as relaxing as possible for you. The use of a cushion for your seat is particularly important for flights that last over an hour, as this will minimize the pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, getting on a plane could be an overwhelming experience. Air travel with a power chair is possible with the proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Before booking your flight, talk to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best way to check into your seat whether at the ticket counter or the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour before your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure that it is properly and properly stored for your trip.
Depending on the model of your power chair It may be necessary for you to disassemble it before transport. If this is the case, it's important to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions on hand to help the staff of the airline handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. You should also take off any removable items and make sure that all controls are functioning before you depart for the airport.
Once you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. The airlines are prohibited from charging you an additional fee to stow assistive devices, such as power wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for those with disabilities as it allows them to save money.
When the plane lands, 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. You can then disembark and your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible location to the door of the aircraft or at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric wheelchair may seem daunting, click here but with the right planning and adherence to guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new destinations with ease. The most important thing to remember is that if you are not comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that traveling affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be very stressful for those with mobility issues. If you're traveling with a wheelchair or a scooter can make your trip more enjoyable. However, it is essential to follow the airline's guidelines for taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline ahead of time to learn about their policies on power chairs, and to ask any questions.
Most airlines will allow you to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your trip as provided it's prepared for travel. Certain airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will require a doctor's letter before they will allow you to fly with your powered wheelchair. Some airlines may also require that you remove the battery powered portion of your wheelchair, and place it in a case that is safe.
When you arrive at the airport, make sure you arrive at least two hours prior to your departure time to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, such as your owner's manual or instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and can make sure that there is no confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.
If you are at the ticket counter of your airline or gate, be sure to communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Explain your wheelchair and any other accessories you may need, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be placing your wheelchair in a specific cart or examining it for storage. If you're transferring to the plane with your electric wheelchair, you should try to book a direct flight, which will minimize the amount of times your equipment will be transferred between various locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment along with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you additional fees for the storage of your wheelchair or scooter, like they do with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, you must capture a photo before you leave the airport and immediately inform the airline.