Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair 101"The Complete" Guide For Beginners
Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair 101"The Complete" Guide For Beginners
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are several things to take into consideration. The staff at the airport and airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have these details ready before you go to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that comply with air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and stowed securely on planes. They typically come with non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. Additionally they'll be able to move on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips brick or roads that are muddy. They may also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending that allows 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 essential to call the airline ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of any specific requirements and to confirm that they are able to meet them. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of your departure time, which is especially important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. This space is limited and operates on a first-come, first-serve basis. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected in conjunction with the wheelchair or scooter, because federal regulations require they must be removed from the device unless it is equipped with an effective design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour before your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent information about your mobility or power chair. scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure safe and convenient travel. These power chairs 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 chosen airline in advance to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These experts can help you plan your travel plans 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 ask that you remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is securely tucked away in a upright position.
Based on your airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following details such as your name address, address, phone number and model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it should become lost or damaged during your travels. You might also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will allow you to remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that proper stowage of your equipment is done. If possible you can arrive at least two hours earlier than the time you plan to depart. This is especially important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This lets you check-in early and allows the airline representative plenty of time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you travel and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during your flight. This will give you the ability to seek compensation from the airline in case of damages. You should also think about bringing an extra cushion for your seat, so that the flight is as relaxing as possible for you. The use of a cushion for your seat is especially important when you travel for over an hour, as it will reduce pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is accepted by the airline can be a daunting task. Traveling with a power chair is achievable with proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Before booking your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best method to check in your chair, whether it is at the ticket counter or the gate. In either case, it's advised to arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure that it's safely stored for your trip.
Depending on your power chair It could be necessary to disassemble it before it is transported. In this instance it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the go to help airline employees who handle your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. You should also remove any accessories that are removable and make sure that all controls work before leaving for the airport.
Once you are at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. Airlines are not permitted to charge you extra for the stowing of assistive devices like electric chairs. This is an excellent benefit for passengers who have disabilities, as it allows them to avoid costly expenses.
A representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which can be able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft when the plane lands. You will then be able to get off the plane and your wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as you can in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with right planning and following guidelines you can have fun exploring new locations. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you are uncomfortable in your chair, you'll not be able to fully take advantage of the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for people who suffer from mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, however it's essential to follow your airline's policies for bringing and stowing your chair on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to learn about their policies on power chairs, and to ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your trip as you've prepared it for travel. Certain airlines might require you click here to recharge the batteries before boarding, and some may require you to have a medical note on file before they will allow you to fly with your motorized chair. Certain airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery powered portion of your chair, and then place it in a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. It's important to bring any documentation, like the owner's manual as well as any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and make sure that there is no confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.
On arrival at the ticket counter or gate, make certain to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any accessories you may need for example, sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether they will be placing your wheelchair in a special cart or examining it for storage. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book an express flight to reduce the number of times your device is moved between different 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 airlines from charging extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair the same way they would with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, be sure to take a photograph before you leave the airport and immediately notify the airline.