Your Family Will Thank You For Having This Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
Your Family Will Thank You For Having This Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to consider. The airport staff and at the airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have all this information at hand before you head to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that are compliant with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines can be safely transported and stored on planes. They typically come with a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. They will also be able move on rough surfaces like 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.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the boarding gates. However, it is essential to contact them ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of your requirements and confirm that they can meet those requirements. Certain airlines require you to be at least one hour prior to your scheduled departure time, which is important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is not large enough and it's first come, first serve. They also require that any additional batteries be checked as part of the wheelchair or scooter, since federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless it is equipped with a secure design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair on their flights. They also request to check-in one hour before your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions and other helpful information regarding your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to provide the most secure and comfortable way to travel. They can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline guidelines for battery size and handling, as well as stowage. If you plan to fly with your airline of choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can assist you in planning your itinerary and give you the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines ask that you remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety and put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed and it is placed upright.
Depending on the airline you use depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, your address, your number, and your wheelchair model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it is lost or damaged during your trip. You may want to buy aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to allow you to remain in your seat during transfers with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
You should always arrive at at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that the proper storage of your equipment is completed. Arriving earlier than this is even better, especially during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This lets you check-in early and gives the airline representative plenty of time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair prior to traveling. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged on the flight. This will get more info give you leverage in pursuing compensation for damages from the airline. You should also consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat so that your journey is as comfortable as it can be for you. A seat cushion is especially important for flights that last more than an hour, since it reduces pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been electric light weight wheelchair approved by the airline can be daunting. However, website with proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, air travel with a power chair is attainable.
Speak to an airline representative prior to making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you in the best direction, whether you prefer to make your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, it is recommended to arrive at least one hour prior to your flight. This gives the airline ample time to inspect your equipment and make sure that it will be stowed safely for your trip.
Depending on the kind of chair you own, it may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. In this situation, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the table to aid airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. Also, remove any removable accessories and ensure that all controls are functioning before you depart for the airport.
Once you are at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. Airlines are not allowed to charge you extra for the stowing of assistive devices such as power chairs. This is an excellent benefit for those with disabilities because it can help them avoid costly expenses.
When the plane lands at the airport, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit down the aircraft aisle. You can then disembark and your wheelchair is returned to you at the nearest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft or at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with right planning and following guidelines you can have fun exploring new places. It is essential to keep in mind that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to travel with the freedom it offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for people with mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stress-inducing for you, but it's important to adhere to your airline's policies for the transportation and storage of your chair on the airplane. Contact the airline prior to departure to learn about their policies on power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair on your flight, so that you prepare it properly for travel. Some airlines require that you discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will need a doctor's letter to allow you to travel with your power wheelchair. Some airlines will also require you to remove the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair and place it in a case that is protected.
When you arrive at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours before your more info departure time to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documentation you may need to the airport, such as your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in process and avoid confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the ticket counter of your airline or at the gate, be sure you be check here able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide the type of wheelchair you have and any necessary accessories like cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be placing your wheelchair in a separate cart or examining it for storage. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book a direct flight to minimize the number of times your device is moved between places.
When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane it will be stored in the cargo compartment along with your checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. Take a photo of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.