What Is The Reason Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Is Right For You?
What Is The Reason Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Is Right For You?
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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are several aspects to be considered. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you numerous questions regarding your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have these details ready before you go to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that are compliant with the requirements for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines can be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA will approve them for air travel and they can be kept under the plane as checked baggage. They can also maneuver on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes, bricks or muddy roads. They can also be equipped with a patented drive system which allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter to the gate to board. It is crucial to contact the airline in advance to make sure they are aware of any special needs and confirm that they will be able to accommodate them. Some airlines require you to arrive one hour prior to the departure time you have scheduled This is crucial in busy 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 a first-come, first-serve basis. The federal regulations also demand that any additional batteries be inspected by a scooter or wheelchair. They must be disconnected unless they are designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require that you check in an 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 to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent information regarding your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to provide a safe and convenient way to travel. These power chairs are made to fold and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling, and stowage. If you plan to travel with your airline of preference, you should contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist in preparing your itinerary and provide you with the most current information regarding 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 to ensure safety and put it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that the battery is secured in an upright position.
Based on your airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following details: your name, address, phone number and model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment in case it gets lost or damaged during your trip. You may also want to look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that allow you to remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airline and airport personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. If you are able you can arrive earlier than two hours before the time you plan to depart. This is especially important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This allows you to check in early and allows the airline representative ample time to help you stow your chair.
Before you travel, take a picture of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage in pursuing compensation for any damages here from the airline. You should also consider bringing cushions for your seats to ensure that your flight is as relaxing as possible for you. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights lasting over an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, getting on a plane is a daunting prospect. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is feasible with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Contact an airline representative before making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best method to check in your chair regardless of whether it's at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour before your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it's safely and properly stored to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the kind of power chair you have It may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it's important to have clear instructions for assembly and read more disassembly in order to aid the airline personnel handling your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair, such as the owner's manual or warranty information. Also, take off any removable items and make sure that all controls work before leaving for the airport.
Once you arrive at the airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and then stowed. The airlines are not allowed to charging you a cost to store assistive devices, like power wheelchairs. This is a great benefit for passengers who have disabilities, as it helps them avoid costly expenses.
An airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that will fit on the aircraft aisle when the plane lands. Then, you will be able to board the plane, and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as possible in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines you can have fun exploring new places. here The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you're not comfortable moving around in your chair, you will never be able to take advantage of the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be extremely stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stressful for you, but it's important to adhere to the policies of your airline regarding the transportation and storage of your chair on board the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to find out their policy on power chairs, and to ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, as provided you prepare it properly for travel. Certain airlines might require you to discharge the batteries before boarding, and some may require you to have a medical note in order to allow you to fly using your motorized chair. Some airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery powered portion of your chair, and place it into a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documents you require to the airport, such as your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will speed up check-in process and help avoid confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
When you reach the airline ticket counter or gate, be sure you communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Discuss your wheelchair and any other accessories you may require for example, more info seats or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be keeping your wheelchair in a special cart or examining it for stowage. If you're taking a transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, try to book click here a direct flight, which will cut down on the amount of times your equipment will be moved between different locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment, just like checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. Take a photo of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.