Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Tools To Simplify Your Life Everyday
Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Tools To Simplify Your Life Everyday
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to take into consideration. The staff at the airport and airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to use it.
Make sure you have this information prepared before you travel to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with the regulations for air travel.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA can approve them for use on flights and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. They will also be able move on rough surfaces, such as deceleration stripes, gravel, roads that are muddy or brick. They could also be equipped with a patented power drive system that enables them to move in tight spaces or lifts.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the gates for boarding. It is crucial to call the airline ahead of time to make sure they are aware of any special needs and confirm that they are able to meet these requirements. Some airlines require you to arrive one hour prior to your scheduled departure time This is crucial in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage and storage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is not large enough and is first come, first served. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair, since federal regulations require that they are disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with an effective design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to you bring electric wheelchairs or scooters on their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour prior to your flight so that they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions as well as other useful details about your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed for safe and convenient travel. They can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also give you assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines require you to take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals aren't exposed, and that it is safely stored upright.
Depending on the airline you use, you may need to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, your address, your telephone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it is stolen or mishandled on your trip. You may want to buy aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will allow you to remain in your chair while you travel with airport personnel and airline personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure the proper storage of your equipment is accomplished. 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 with stowing your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair prior to traveling. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage in pursuing compensation for the damages from the airline. You should consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to make the trip as comfortable as you possibly can. A seat cushion is particularly important for flights that last more than an hour, since it reduces pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline can be a daunting task. Traveling with a power chair is possible with the proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Contact an airline representative prior to booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the right direction, whether you prefer to check-in your chair 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 that it's safely stowed for your trip.
Based on the model of power chair you have It could be necessary to disassemble it for transport. In this instance it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the go to help airline personnel who will handle your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any accessories that can be removed prior to when you leave for the airport and also to ensure that all controls are functioning properly.
Once you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the plane. The airlines are prohibited from charging you an additional cost to store assistive devices, such as electric wheelchairs. This is a great feature for passengers with disabilities, as it helps them avoid costly expenses.
After the plane has landed at the airport, an airline employee will be able to transfer you from your power wheelchair to one that is able to 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 closest to the plane's door as is possible in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
Traveling with an electric wheelchair can seem daunting, but with the right planning and adhering to guidelines, it is possible to experience the joy of exploring new destinations without difficulty. It is essential to keep in mind that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you won't lightweight wheelchairs electric be able to enjoy the freedom it affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for people with mobility problems. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, but it is important to follow the guidelines of your airline for bringing and stowing your chair on the airplane. Contact the airline ahead of time to find out their policy on power chairs, and to ask any questions.
Most airlines will allow you to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight, so provided it's prepared for travel. Some airlines may require you to charge the batteries prior to boarding and some may require you to have a doctor's recommendation on file before they will allow you to fly with your electric chair. Some airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered portion of your chair and then place it in a protective case.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before departure. It's important to bring any documentation, like the owner's manual as well as any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid to the airport. This will help speed up the check-in process and can make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
When you reach the ticket counter of your airline or gate, be sure you explain your mobility needs clearly. Explain the type of wheelchair you have and any accessories you require like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or if it will be transferred to the plane using an appropriate cart. If you're going to transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, you should try to book a direct flight, which will reduce the number of times your equipment will be transferred between different locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment as checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the 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. Contact the airline immediately.