Why Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Is The Right Choice For You?
Why Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Is The Right Choice For You?
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many things you should consider when traveling with an electric chair. The airport staff and at the airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair, battery type, and how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information prepared before you travel to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with the regulations for air travel.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are able to be safely transported and stowed on planes. The FAA will approve them for travel on planes and they can be kept under the plane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to maneuver on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes, roads that are muddy or brick. They could also be fitted with a drive system that is patent-pending that allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter until the boarding gate. It is however important to contact them prior to time to ensure that they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet those needs. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour before your scheduled departure which is crucial during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. This space is limited and operates on an initial-come first-serve basis. 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 designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also request that you check in one hour before your flight, so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather assembly/disassembly information and other helpful information about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed 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 are planning to fly with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist in planning your itinerary and give you the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines will 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 to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed and that it is stored upright.
Depending on the airline you use depending on your airline, you might be required to label your wheelchair with the following details: your name address, number and model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment if it is lost or damaged during 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 while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. If you can you can arrive at least two hours earlier than your scheduled departure time. This is particularly crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This allows you to arrive early and allows ample time for the airline representative to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Before you leave, take a picture of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during the flight. This will give you the possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline in case of damages. Consider bringing along cushions to make your flight as comfortable as possible. Seat cushions are especially important for flights lasting over an hour. They reduce the pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, getting on a plane could be a daunting prospect. Traveling with a power chair is possible with the proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Before booking your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best method to check in your chair whether at the counter for tickets or the read more gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour before your flight is suggested. This allows the airline plenty of time to check your equipment and ensure it will be safely towed for your journey.
Depending on the type of power chair you have It could be required to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it's helpful to read more have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly available to assist staff of the airline handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any detachable items prior to you travel to the airport and to ensure all the controls are in working order.
Once you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the plane. The airlines are not allowed to charging you a fee to stow assistive devices, like power wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for passengers with disabilities, since it allows them to avoid unnecessary expenses.
When the plane lands, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to fit down the aircraft aisle. You will then be able to board the plane, and your power wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as possible, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
Traveling with an electric wheelchair can seem daunting, but with careful planning and adhering to guidelines, you can be able to experience the joy of exploring new locations with ease. It is important to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair, you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for passengers with mobility problems. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stress-inducing for you, but website it is important to follow the policies of your airline regarding bringing and stowing your chair on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact the airline prior to your travels to inquire about their policy and ask any questions.
Most airlines allow passengers to bring an electric wheelchair on your flight, so 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 before they will allow you to fly with your electric wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered component of your wheelchair and place it in a protective case.
Get to the airport at minimum two hours prior to your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your flight. Bring any documents you need to the airport, such as your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly for your mobility here aid. This will make it easier for the process of checking in and will help avoid confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.
If you are at the counter for tickets to airline or at the gate, be sure you communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Provide the kind of wheelchair you're using and any necessary accessories, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage or if it will be transferred to the aircraft using an appropriate cart. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book a direct flight to minimize the amount of times your equipment is moved between locations.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment as checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging additional more info fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. Take a picture of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.