10 Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Tricks All Experts Recommend
10 Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Tricks All Experts Recommend
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few aspects to take into consideration when traveling with an electric chair. The staff at the airport and the airline will inquire about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Be sure to have this information at hand before you head to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with the air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and stowed safely on airplanes. They will typically have a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stowed underneath the plane as checked luggage. In addition they'll be able to move on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips brick or roads that are muddy. They could also be equipped with a patented power drive system that enables them to navigate in tight spaces, or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter to the boarding gate. It is crucial to contact the airline in advance to ensure they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they can meet them. Certain airlines require you to arrive one hour prior to the departure time you have scheduled This is crucial in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is not large enough and it's first come, first serve. The federal regulations also demand that any additional batteries be checked by the scooter or wheelchair. They must be disconnected unless they are specifically designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before taking an electric wheelchair or scooter aboard their flights. They also request to check-in one hour prior to your flight time so that they can ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you 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 method of 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. If you are planning to travel with your airline of preference, you should contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist in preparing your itinerary and give you the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Some airlines ask that you take the wheelchair's battery out of the way to ensure safety and put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed, and that it is placed upright.
Depending on the airline you use, you may need to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, your address, your telephone number, and your wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event that it is lost or mishandled during your journey. You may want to buy aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will assist you in staying in your chair during transfers with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at at minimum two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that the proper stowage of your equipment is accomplished. If you can, arrive earlier than two hours prior to your scheduled departure time. This is especially crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and gives the airline representative plenty of time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you leave to another destination, take a photo 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 any damages from the airline. You should also consider bringing a seat cushion with you to ensure that your flight is as relaxing as possible for you. A seat cushion is particularly important when you travel for longer than an hour, because this will minimize pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline may be intimidating. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is achievable with proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Talk to 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 regardless of whether it's at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour before your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure it is safely stored for your trip.
Based on the model of power chair you have, it may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. If this is the case, it is beneficial to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions available to assist airline personnel handling your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair, like the owner's manual as well as warranty information. Also, take off any removable items and ensure that all controls are functioning before leaving for the airport.
Once you arrive at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the airplane. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra fees to store assistive devices, such as power chairs. This is a huge benefit for people with disabilities as they can save money.
Once the plane is in the air, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to slide down the aircraft aisle. 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 at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with the proper planning and following the guidelines you can have fun exploring new places. The most important thing to remember is that if you're uncomfortable in your chair, you'll never enjoy the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for people who suffer from mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, however it's important to adhere to your airline's policies for the transportation and storage of your chair on board the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact your airline prior to your travels to ask about their policy and get any questions answered.
Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, so that you prepare it properly for travel. Certain airlines may require you to charge the batteries before boarding, and some will need to have a doctor's recommendation on file prior to being able to allow you to fly using your motorized chair. Some airlines may also demand that you take down the battery powered portion of your chair, and place it into a case that is safe.
When you arrive at the airport, make sure to arrive at least check here two hours prior to the time of departure to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, like the owner's manual as well as any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your click here mobility aid to the airport. This will speed up check-in process and avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
If you are at the ticket counter of your airline or gate, make sure you communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Explain your wheelchair and any other accessories you may need, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be storing your wheelchair in check here a specific cart or examining it for storage. If you're taking a transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to take a direct flight which will minimize 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 compartment with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment arrives damaged, be sure to take a picture of it before leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.