The Reason Why Adding A Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair To Your Life Can Make All The A Difference
The Reason Why Adding A Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair To Your Life Can Make All The A Difference
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are many things to consider. Airport and airline staff will ask you a lot of questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have this information ready prior to your trip to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be carried and safely stowed on planes. The FAA can approve them for air travel and they can be stowed under the plane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to maneuver on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration stripes roads that are muddy or brick. They may also have a patent-pending power 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 until the gate to board. It is important to call the airline ahead of time to make sure they are aware of any specific requirements and to confirm that they can meet these requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of your scheduled departure This is particularly important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. This space is limited and is first come first served. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected in conjunction with the wheelchair or scooter, since federal regulations require that they are disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with a safe design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require that you check in an hour before your flight so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions and other helpful information about your mobility or power chair. scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are made for comfortable and safe travel. These electric chairs can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline guidelines regarding battery size handling, stowage, and handling. If you are planning to fly with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines ask that you take the wheelchair's battery out of the way to ensure safety and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed, and it is stowed upright.
Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, your address, your phone number, and your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it is stolen or mishandled during your journey. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will help you remain in your chair during transfers with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
You should always arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the departure time you have scheduled to ensure that proper stowage of your equipment is done. Being earlier than that is even better if possible particularly during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and gives the representative of the airline plenty of time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair prior to traveling. This can be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will help you in obtaining compensation for the damages from the airline. You should also think about bringing cushions for your seats to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Cushions for seats are essential for flights lasting over an hour. They reduce the pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane is an overwhelming experience. Traveling with a power chair is possible with the right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Talk to an airline representative prior to making your booking to find out 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 any case, arriving at least one hour prior to your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure it is safely and properly stored for your journey.
Depending on the type of power chair you own It could be necessary to disassemble it for transport. If this is the case, it is important to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly available to assist airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your lightest electric wheelchair chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any accessories that can be removed prior to when you travel to the airport and also to ensure that all the controls are in working order.
Once you arrive at the airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and then stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging an additional cost to store assistive devices like power wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for those with disabilities as they can avoid costly expenses.
When the plane lands, an airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit in the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you can disembark, and your wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or at the gate.
Traveling with an electric chair can be daunting, but with the right planning and adherence to guidelines, it is possible to experience the joy of exploring new places without difficulty. It is crucial to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair, you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for people who suffer from mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the experience less stressful for you, but it is important to follow your airline's policies for transporting and stowing your chair on board the airplane. Contact the airline prior to departure to inquire about their policy regarding power chairs and to ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to take a motorized wheelchair with you on your trip as long as it's properly prepared for travel. Certain airlines may require you to charge the batteries before boarding, and some will need to have a doctor's recommendation on file before they will allow you to fly using your motorized chair. Certain airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair, and place it into a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours before your scheduled departure time so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, including your owner's manual or assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will speed up the check-in and prevent confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
On arrival at the ticket counter or at the gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Explain the type of wheelchair you have and any accessories you require, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair for stowage or if it will be transferred to the plane using an appropriate cart. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book an express flight to reduce the amount of times your equipment is moved between locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment as checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. Take a photograph of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.