What Is Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair And How To Use It?
What Is Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair And How To Use It?
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few aspects to take into consideration when traveling with powered chairs. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you many questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have all these details in hand prior to you leave for the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that comply with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stored on planes. They usually have an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stowed underneath the plane as checked baggage. They will also be able move on rough surfaces like deceleration stripes, gravel, brick or muddy road. They could also be fitted with a unique drive system 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 boarding gate. It is crucial to contact the airline prior to your departure to ensure that they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they can meet them. Some airlines require you to arrive an hour before your departure time which is essential during busy travel periods.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of a mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited and is first come, first served. The federal regulations also require that all batteries added to the system be checked by the scooter or wheelchair. They must be disconnected unless they are specifically designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also request that you check-in an hour prior to your flight so that they can ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful information regarding your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to provide an efficient and safe way to travel. These electric chairs can be folded and comply with airline guidelines for battery size and handling, as well as stowage. If you plan to travel with the airline of your choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can help you plan your travel itinerary and provide you with the latest details regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety and then place it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that the battery is secured in a straight position.
Depending on the airline you use depending on your airline, you might be required to label your wheelchair with the following details such as your name, address, phone number, and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it is lost or damaged during your travels. You might also consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that aid you in staying in your wheelchair when you transfer 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 accomplished. If possible you can arrive earlier than two hours prior to the time you plan to depart. This is especially crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This lets you check in earlier and gives plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair before you travel. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage in pursuing compensation for any damages from the airline. You should consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to make the trip as comfortable as you possibly can. A seat cushion is particularly important for flights that will last more than an hour, since this will minimize the 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. However, with proper preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, traveling with your power chair is feasible.
Contact an airline representative prior to making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best way to check-in your chair whether at the ticket counter or the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour before your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it is properly and properly stored to be ready for your trip.
Depending on your power chair It could be necessary to disassemble it prior to it is transported. If this is the case, it's important to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions in order to aid the airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. You should also remove any accessories that are removable and check that all controls are functioning before you leave for the airport.
When you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and then stowed. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you an additional cost to store assistive devices, such as electric wheelchairs. This is a wonderful benefit for those with disabilities since it allows them to avoid unnecessary expenses.
A representative from the airline will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit down the aisle of the aircraft when the plane lands. Then, you will be able to disembark, and your power wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as is possible, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It might be difficult to travel with an electric chair, but with right planning and following guidelines you can have fun exploring new destinations. It is important to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to travel with the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for those who have mobility problems. If you're traveling with an electric or wheelchair can make your experience more enjoyable. However, it's essential to follow the airline's policies regarding taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact the airline before your trip to inquire about their policy and ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight as provided it's prepared for travel. Certain airlines may require you to discharge the batteries before boarding, and some will need to have a medical mymobilityscooters note on file before they will allow you to fly using your electric chair. Some airlines may also demand that you remove the battery powered portion of your wheelchair, and place it in a case that is safe.
When you arrive at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours prior to the time of departure so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. Bring any documentation you might require to the airport, including your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will help speed up the process of checking in and will help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the counter for tickets to airline or gate, be sure you communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Explain your wheelchair and any other accessories you may require, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or if it will be transferred to the plane using an adapted cart. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book a direct flight to minimize the amount of times your equipment is moved between places.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo area along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of your scooter or wheelchair, like they do with your luggage. Take a picture of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.