What Is Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair And Why Is Everyone Talking About It?
What Is Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair And Why Is Everyone Talking About It?
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are many things to take into consideration. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you numerous questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type as well as how it should be handled.
Be sure to have all this information at hand before you travel to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that are compliant with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and stowed safely on airplanes. The FAA will allow them to be used for air travel, and they can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. Additionally, they will be able to navigate on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips brick or roads that are muddy. They can also be equipped with a patented drive system that allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter until the gate for boarding. It is essential to contact the airline prior to your departure to ensure that they are aware of any specific needs and to confirm that they can meet them. Certain airlines require you to arrive one hour prior to your scheduled departure time, which is important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their aircrafts to allow the stowage and storage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. This space is limited and operates on a first-come, first-serve basis. They also require that any extra batteries be checked as part of the scooter or wheelchair because federal regulations require they are disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with an effective design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when you bring an electric wheelchair or scooter on their flights. They also require to check-in one hour before your flight so that they can ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions as well as other useful information regarding your mobility or power chair. scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure safe and convenient travel. These power chairs are made to fold and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the latest details regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety. You can then put it into a carryon bag. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is securely tucked away in a upright position.
Depending on the airline you fly with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, your address, your phone number, and the wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event that it gets lost or is mishandled on your trip. You may want to buy aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will help you remain in your chair during transfers with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
You should arrive at at two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure proper stowage of your equipment is accomplished. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better particularly during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This lets you check in early and provides ample time for the representative of the airline to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Before you travel to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for damages. Consider bringing along a seat cushion to make the trip as comfortable as you possibly can. The use of a cushion for your seat is particularly important for flights that will last over an hour, as this will minimize the pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, getting on a plane is a daunting prospect. However, with the proper preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, air travel using your electric chair is attainable.
Before booking your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best way to check-in your chair, whether it is at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, it is advised to arrive at least an hour before your flight. This gives the airline ample time to inspect your equipment and make sure that it is safely stored to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the type of power chair you own It could be required to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it is helpful to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions on hand to help the airline employees handling your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair, like the owner's manual or warranty information. It is also recommended to remove any accessories that are removable and check that all controls work before you depart for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the airplane. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra to store assistive devices, such as electric chairs. This is a huge benefit for those who have disabilities, as they can avoid unnecessary costs.
After the plane has landed, an airline employee will be able here to transfer you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit in the aisle of the aircraft. You will then be able to get off the plane and your wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft 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 the right planning and following the rules you can have fun exploring new locations. The most important thing to remember is that if not comfortable in your chair, you will never take advantage of the freedom that travel offers.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for those who have mobility issues. If you're using a wheelchair or a scooter can make your trip 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, be sure to contact your airline prior to your departure to inquire about their policy and get any questions answered.
Most airlines allow passengers to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight as provided it's prepared for travel. Some airlines might require you to recharge the batteries prior to boarding and some will need to have a medical note on file before they will allow you to fly using your power chair. Some airlines may also require you to remove the battery-powered part of your chair and then place it in a protective case.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, like your owner manual and any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid to the airport. This will speed up check-in and prevent confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
Upon arriving at the ticket counter or gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Discuss your wheelchair and any accessories you might require for example, seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or the possibility of transferring it to the plane using a specialized cart. If you're going to transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to book a direct flight, which will reduce the number of times that your equipment will be transferred between various locations.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane it will be stored in the cargo compartment, just like checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra fees for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. Take a picture of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.