Why Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Is Right For You?
Why Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Is Right For You?
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few things you should consider when traveling with an electric chair. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you a lot of questions regarding the dimensions of your chair, battery type and how to handle it.
Be sure to have all this information in your possession prior to you travel to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that comply with the regulations for air travel.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines can be safely transported and stowed on planes. They typically come with an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stowed underneath the plane as checked luggage. They will also be able maneuver on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes brick or muddy road. They can also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending that permits them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the boarding gate. It is however important to contact them prior to time to make sure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet those needs. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour ahead of the time of departure This is particularly important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes for the stowage and storage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is limited and operates on an initial-come first-serve basis. They also require that any additional batteries be checked as part of the scooter or wheelchair, as federal regulations require that they be disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with an effective design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask to check-in at least 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 airport personnel can gather assembly/disassembly information and other helpful information regarding your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to offer a safe and convenient method of travel. They can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline guidelines regarding battery size and handling, as well as stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These experts can help you plan your itinerary and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety purposes and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is securely tucked away in a straight position.
Depending on the airline you use depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, address, your number, and the wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment if it gets lost or mishandled during your trip. You may want to buy aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will assist you in staying in your chair during transfers with airport personnel and airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to the departure time you have scheduled to ensure proper stowage of your equipment is accomplished. If you are able, arrive at least two hours earlier than your departure time. This is particularly crucial during busy holiday times or 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.
Before you travel to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage in pursuing compensation for damages from the airline. Consider bringing along cushions to make the trip as comfortable as you possibly can. A seat cushion is essential for flights that will last more than an hour, since it reduces the pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been accepted by the airline more info can be a daunting task. Air travel with a power chair is achievable with proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, speak to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They click here will be able to guide you in the best direction, regardless of whether you prefer to make your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it's recommended that you arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and ensure that it will be safely towed to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the kind of power chair you have It may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. In this case, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the go to help airline personnel handling your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair, including the owner's manual or warranty information. read more You should also take off any removable items and make sure whether all controls function before leaving for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and stowed. Airlines are not allowed to charge you extra for the stowing of assistive devices such as power chairs. This is a huge benefit for passengers with disabilities since it allows them to avoid costly expenses.
An airline employee can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can be able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft once the plane arrives. You will then be able to get off the plane and your power wheelchair will here be returned to you closest to the plane's door as possible in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
It might be difficult to travel with an electric chair, but with the right planning and following guidelines you click here can have fun exploring new destinations. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if not comfortable in your chair, you'll never enjoy the freedom that travel affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for passengers with mobility problems. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, but it's important to adhere to the guidelines of your airline for bringing and stowing your chair on the airplane. Contact the airline in advance to inquire about their policy on power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Most airlines allow passengers to bring an electric wheelchair on your trip as provided it's prepared for travel. Certain airlines may require you to charge the batteries before boarding, and some will need to have a doctor's recommendation in order to let you fly with your electric chair. Some airlines will also require you to disassemble the battery-powered part of your chair and then place it in a case that is protected.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to departure. Bring any documentation you may require to the airport, including your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will speed up check-in and prevent confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the airline's ticket counter or at the gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Discuss your wheelchair and any accessories you might require for example, seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be placing your wheelchair in a separate cart or examining it for stowage. If you're going to transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, try to book a direct flight, which will reduce the number of times your equipment will be transferred between different locations.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment, just like checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. Take a picture of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.