10 Unexpected Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Tips
10 Unexpected Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Tips
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several aspects to take into consideration when traveling with powered chairs. 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 prepared before you travel to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that are compliant with the requirements for air travel.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and stowed securely on airplanes. They usually have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel and can be stowed underneath the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore, they will be able to navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or roads that are muddy. They may also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending which allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the boarding gates. It is important to contact the airline in advance to make sure they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they can meet them. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour before the time of departure This is particularly important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is limited and it's first come, first served. The federal regulations also require that all batteries added to the system be inspected by a scooter or wheelchair. They must be disconnected unless they are specifically designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require that you check-in an 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
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to offer an efficient and safe method of travel. These power chairs are made to fold and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling, and stowage. If you plan to fly 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 you in planning your trip and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require you to take the wheelchair's battery out of the way to ensure safety and put it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is safely stowed in a upright position.
Depending on the airline you fly with depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, your address, your telephone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it is lost or mishandled during your journey. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to assist you in staying in your chair while you travel with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport 2 hours before your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment storage. Being earlier than that is even better if possible especially during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and allows the airline representative plenty of time to help you stow your chair.
Before you leave and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during your flight. This will give you leverage in pursuing compensation for damages from the airline. Consider bringing along an extra cushion for your seat to make the flight as comfortable as you can. Using a seat cushion is especially important for flights that will last over an hour, as it will reduce the pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline can be intimidating. However, with the proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, flying with your power chair is attainable.
Speak to an airline representative before making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best way to check into your seat whether at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, it is advised to arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This gives the airline ample time to examine your equipment and ensure it is safely stored for your journey.
Depending on the kind of power chair you own It may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. If this is the case, it's beneficial to have clear instructions website for assembly and disassembly on hand to help the staff of the airline handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off read more any accessories that can be here removed prior to when you go to the airport, and to make sure all controls are in working order.
Once you arrive at the airport the electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and then stowed. The airlines are not allowed to charging you an additional cost to store assistive devices like electric wheelchairs. This is a wonderful benefit for people with disabilities, as it helps them save money.
A representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit down the aircraft aisle when the plane lands. After disembarking, your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the shortest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft or at the jetbridge or at the gate.
It might be difficult to travel with an electric chair, but with the right planning and following guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new locations. The most important thing to remember is that if you're uncomfortable in your chair, you will never enjoy the freedom that travel offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be extremely stressful for those who have mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stress-inducing for you, but it's important to adhere to your airline's policies for bringing and stowing your chair on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact the airline before your trip to inquire about their policy and get any questions answered.
Most airlines will allow you to take a motorized wheelchair here with you on your flight as you've prepared it for travel. Some airlines require that you discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will need a doctor's letter prior to allowing you to fly with your powered wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require you to remove the battery-powered component of your chair and put it in a protective case.
When you arrive at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours before your scheduled departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. Bring any documentation you might need to the airport, including your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will help speed up the process of checking in and will make sure that there is no confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.
When you arrive at the counter for tickets to airline or gate, make sure you be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Discuss your wheelchair and any accessories you may need for example, seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be storing your wheelchair in a specific cart or examining it for storage. If you're going to transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, you should read more try to make a direct flight which will reduce the amount of times your equipment will be moved between locations.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane it will be stored in the cargo compartment, just like checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for storing your wheelchair or scooter, the same way they would with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, make sure you capture a photo prior to leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.