What Is Everyone Talking About Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Right Now
What Is Everyone Talking About Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Right Now
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are several aspects to be considered. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you a lot of questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have these details prepared before you travel to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with the air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are those that 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 bricks or muddy roads. They can also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending that allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the gates for boarding. However, it is essential to contact them ahead of time to ensure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm that they are able to meet your needs. Certain airlines require that you arrive one hour prior to your scheduled departure time which is essential in busy 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 operates on a first-come, first-serve basis. The federal regulations also require 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 hours advance notice prior to bringing electric wheelchairs or scooters on their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour prior to your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions and other helpful information about your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure secure and comfortable travel. These electric chairs can be folded and comply with airline guidelines regarding battery size and handling, as well as stowage. 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. These representatives can assist you in planning your trip 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 to ensure safety. You can then put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery terminals aren't exposed, and that it is safely stowed upright.
Depending on the airline you fly with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, your address, your phone number, and the wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment if it should become lost or damaged during your trip. You may also want to think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that help you remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
You should arrive at at minimum two hours prior to the departure time you have scheduled to ensure that proper stowage of your equipment is done. If possible be there earlier than two hours before your scheduled departure time. This is especially crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This lets you check-in early and gives the airline representative plenty of time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair prior to travel. This serves as proof if your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you the possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for damages. Consider bringing along a seat cushion to make the trip as comfortable as you can. Seat cushions are particularly important when you travel for more than an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin preventing soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, boarding a plane can be a daunting prospect. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is possible with the proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Before booking your flight, speak to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best method to check into your seat whether at the ticket counter or the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour before your flight is recommended. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and ensure that it is safely stored to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the kind 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. It is also a good 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 accessories before you travel to the airport and also to ensure that all the controls are working properly.
Once you arrive at the airport your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and then stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging you an additional fee to stow assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for passengers with disabilities, as it helps them avoid unnecessary expenses.
An airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which can fit down the aisle of the aircraft once the plane lands. You will then be able to board the plane, and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as possible, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
Traveling with an electric wheelchair may seem daunting, but with the right planning and mobility power chair adhering to guidelines, it is possible to experience the joy of exploring new destinations easily. The most important thing to remember is that if you're not comfortable in your chair, you will never enjoy the freedom that traveling offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for people with mobility issues. If you have a wheelchair or a scooter, it can make your trip more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow the airline's policies regarding bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline ahead of time to find out their policy on power chairs, and to inquire about any questions.
Most airlines will allow passengers to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight, so provided it's prepared for travel. Some airlines may require you to charge the batteries prior to boarding and some will require you to have a doctor's recommendation on file prior to being able to let you fly with your motorized chair. Certain airlines may also require you to remove the battery-powered portion of your chair and put it in a case that is protected.
Once you're at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours before your departure time so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documentation you might require to the airport, including your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in process and can make sure that there is no confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.
When you arrive at the counter for tickets to airline or at the gate, be sure to communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Explain the type of wheelchair you have and any necessary accessories, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be placing your wheelchair in a separate cart or checking it for stowage. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book an direct flight to cut down on the amount of times your equipment is moved between different locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo area along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. Take a photo of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.