Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Tips From The Best In The Industry
Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Tips From The Best In The Industry
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many things you should consider when traveling with a powered chair. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you numerous questions regarding your chair's dimensions and battery type as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information ready prior to your trip to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that are compliant with the requirements for air travel.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be carried and stowed safely on airplanes. The FAA will allow them to be used for travel on planes, and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. Furthermore, they will be able to maneuver on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or muddy roads. They can also be equipped with a patented drive system that permits them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate for boarding. It is however important to contact them ahead of time to make sure they are aware of your requirements and confirm that they can meet those requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour before the time of departure, which is especially important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their aircrafts to allow the stowage and storage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is not large enough and is first come first served. The federal regulations also demand that any additional batteries be inspected by a wheelchair or scooter. They must be removed unless they are designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to taking an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also request that you check in an hour prior to your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions as well as other useful information regarding your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure safe and convenient travel. These chairs are designed to fold, and they meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling, and stowage. If you are planning to fly with your airline of preference, you should contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the latest information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require you to remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed and it is stored upright.
Depending on the airline you use or airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following details including your name address, address, phone number, and model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment in case it gets lost or mishandled during your trip. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as 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 arrive at the airport 2 hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. Arriving earlier than this is even better if possible especially during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This lets you check-in early and gives the airline representative ample time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair before you travel. This will serve as proof if your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you the possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline in case of damages. You should also think about bringing an extra cushion for your seat to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Cushions for seats are essential for flights lasting over an hour. They can reduce pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, boarding a plane can be an intimidating experience. Air travel with a power chair is feasible with proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Speak to an airline representative before making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the best direction, no matter if you prefer to get your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour prior to your flight is recommended. This gives the airline ample time to examine your equipment and ensure it will be safely towed for your journey.
Depending on the model of your power chair It may be necessary to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it is helpful to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly in order to aid the airline personnel handling your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair, such as the owner's manual or warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable items prior to you travel to the airport and to ensure all the controls are working properly.
When you arrive at the airport, your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and then stowed. The airlines are not allowed to charging an additional fee to stow assistive devices, such as electric wheelchairs. This is a great benefit for passengers with disabilities as it allows them to avoid costly expenses.
After the plane has landed at the airport, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to slide into the aisle of the aircraft. 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 possible, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric chair can be daunting, but with the right planning and adherence to guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new destinations without difficulty. The most important thing to remember is that if you are not comfortable in your chair, you will never take advantage of the freedom that travel offers.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for people who suffer from mobility problems. If you're traveling with an electric or wheelchair can make your trip more enjoyable. However, it is crucial to adhere to the airline's guidelines for bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your travels to inquire about their policy and to get any questions answered.
Most airlines allow passengers to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight, so you've prepared it for travel. Certain airlines may require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding electric lightweight wheelchairs and some may require you to have a doctor's recommendation on file prior to being able to let you fly with your motorized chair. Some airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered component of your chair and put it in a protective case.
Get to the airport at minimum two hours prior to your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before departure. It's important to bring any documentation, including your owner's manual or instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will make it easier for the check-in process and help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
When you reach the ticket counter of your airline or gate, make sure to explain your mobility needs clearly. Be sure to describe the kind of wheelchair you own and any other accessories you may require like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or the possibility of transferring it to the aircraft using a specialized cart. If you're transferring to the plane using your electric wheelchair, make sure to make a direct flight which will cut down on the number of times that your equipment is moved between various locations.
Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo compartment with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. Take a photo of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.