What Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Will Be Your Next Big Obsession?
What Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Will Be Your Next Big Obsession?
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are many aspects to be considered. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you numerous questions regarding the dimensions of your chair, battery type and how it should be handled.
Make sure you have this information ready prior to your trip to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that meet the requirements for air travel.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stowed on planes. They usually have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stored under the plane as checked luggage. They will also be able move on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration stripes, roads that are muddy or brick. They could also be fitted with a unique drive system which allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate for boarding. It is crucial to call the airline ahead of time to ensure they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they can meet these requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour before the time of departure which is crucial during busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes for the stowage of a mobility scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited and on an initial-come first-serve basis. The federal regulations also demand that any additional batteries be checked by the wheelchair or scooter. They must be shut off unless they are designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also require that you check in one hour prior to your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get assembly/disassembly information and other helpful information regarding your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure comfortable and safe travel. These chairs are designed to fold, and they comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling, and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in preparing your itinerary and give you the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines will require you to remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is secured in a upright position.
Based on your airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following details: your name, address, phone number, and model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it gets 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 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 storage of your equipment is completed. If possible you can arrive earlier than two hours before your departure time. This is especially crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and allows the airline representative plenty of time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you leave, take a picture of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for the damages from the airline. You should also consider bringing cushions for your seats so that your journey is as relaxing as possible for you. Seat cushions are especially important when you travel for more than an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
For those who travel with an approved electric wheelchair, the process of boarding a plane can be an intimidating experience. Air travel with a power chair is feasible with right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Contact an airline representative prior to making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the best direction, whether you prefer to check-in your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour before your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure that it is properly and properly stored for your journey.
Depending on the kind of chair you own It may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. If this is the case, it's helpful to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions available to assist airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. You should also bariatric electric wheelchair remove any accessories that are removable and make sure that all controls are functioning before leaving get more info for the airport.
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 an additional fee to stow assistive devices like electric wheelchairs. This is a wonderful benefit for those with disabilities since it allows them to avoid unnecessary expenses.
After the plane has landed, an airline employee will be capable of transferring small electric wheelchairs you from your power wheelchair get more info to one that can fit into the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you can disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the closest possible location to the aircraft door or at the jetbridge or the gate.
It might be difficult to travel with an electric chair, but with the right planning and following guidelines, you can enjoy exploring new places. It is important to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair, you won't be able to travel with the freedom it affords.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for people with mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stress-inducing for you, but it is important to follow your airline's policies for the transportation and storage of your chair on the airplane. Contact the airline in advance to find out their policy on power chairs, and to inquire about any questions.
Most airlines allow you to bring an electric wheelchair on your trip as long as it's properly prepared for travel. Certain airlines might require you to recharge the batteries before boarding, and some will need to have a doctor's note on file before they will let you fly with your motorized chair. Some airlines will also require you to disassemble the battery-powered component of your chair and then place it inside a protective case.
When you arrive at the airport, make sure you arrive at least two hours prior to the time of departure so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's important to bring any documentation, like the owner's manual as well as any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up check-in process and help avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the airline's ticket counter or at the gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Explain the kind of wheelchair you're using and any accessories you require like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage or if it will be transferred to the more info aircraft using a specialized cart. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book an express flight to reduce the amount of times your equipment is moved between places.
Once your wheelchair is in the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment, just like checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra to store your scooter or wheelchair the same way they would with your luggage. Take a picture of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.