5 Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Lessons From The Professionals
5 Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Lessons From The Professionals
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to consider. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you numerous questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have all of this information in your possession prior to you travel to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that comply with air travel regulations.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are able to be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA can approve them for air travel and they can be kept in the airplane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to navigate on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes bricks or muddy roads. They could also be fitted with a drive system that is patent-pending that allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
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 prior to your departure to make sure they are aware of any specific needs and confirm that they are able to meet the requirements. Some airlines require you to arrive one hour prior to your departure time This is crucial during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is limited and on the basis of first-come-first-serve. Federal regulations also require that all batteries added to the system be checked by the wheelchair or scooter. They must be removed unless they are specifically designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask that you check in one hour prior to your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions and other helpful information regarding your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are made for comfortable and safe travel. They can be folded and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and stowage. If you plan to travel with your airline of preference, you should contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can assist you in preparing your itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines will require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is securely tucked away in a upright position.
Depending on the airline you use depending on your airline, you might be required to label your wheelchair with the following information: your name, address, phone number, and model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it is lost or mishandled during your trip. You may also want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which help you remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airline and airport personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at at least two hours prior to the departure time you have scheduled to ensure the proper stowage of your equipment is done. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better 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 help you stow your chair.
Before you leave to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your device is damaged during your flight. This will help you in obtaining compensation for any damages from the airline. You should also consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat so that your journey is as comfortable as it can be for you. The use of a cushion for your seat is especially important for flights that last longer than an hour, because this will minimize pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those who travel with an airline approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane is an intimidating experience. Traveling with a power chair is possible with the read more right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Before booking your flight, talk to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They'll be able to help you navigate in the right direction, regardless of whether you prefer to check-in your seat at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, it is recommended that you arrive at least an hour before your flight. This gives the airline ample time to examine your equipment and make sure that it will be safely towed for your journey.
Depending on the kind of power chair you have It may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. In this situation it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in hand to assist the airline employees who handle your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair, including the owner's manual or warranty information. Also, remove any accessories that are removable and ensure whether all controls check here function before you leave for the airport.
Once you are at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the plane. Airlines are check here not allowed to charge extra for the stowing of assistive devices like electric chairs. This is a huge benefit for those who have disabilities, as they can avoid unnecessary costs.
A representative from the airline can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit down the aircraft aisle when the plane arrives. You can then disembark and your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the nearest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
A trip with an electric wheelchair can seem daunting, but with careful planning and adherence to guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the thrill of exploring new places with ease. The most important thing to remember is that if you are not comfortable in your chair, you'll never enjoy the freedom that traveling affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be very stressful for those who have mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, but it's important to adhere to the policies of your airline regarding bringing and stowing your chair on board the airplane. Contact the airline prior to departure to find out their policy regarding power chairs and to ask any questions.
Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized chair for your flight, as provided you prepare it correctly for travel. Some airlines require that you discharge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will require a physician's letter to allow you to fly with your powered wheelchair. Some airlines may also demand that you remove the battery powered portion of your chair and place it into a case that is safe.
Once you're at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours before your departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's here also a good idea 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 check-in process and help avoid confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
Upon arriving check here at the ticket counter or at the gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Explain the kind of wheelchair you own and any other accessories you may require like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether they will be placing your wheelchair in a separate cart or checking it for stowage. If you're transferring to the plane using your electric wheelchair, make sure to take a direct flight which will reduce the amount of times your equipment will be transferred between locations.
Once your wheelchair is in the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment, just like checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you extra to store your wheelchair or scooter, the same way they would with your luggage. Take a photograph of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.