What Is Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair And How To Utilize What Is Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair And How To Use
What Is Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair And How To Utilize What Is Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair And How To Use
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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many things you should consider when traveling with powered chairs. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you numerous questions regarding your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have these details ready prior to your trip to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with the air travel regulations.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines can be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA can approve them for travel on planes, and they can be kept in the airplane as checked baggage. They can also navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration stripes, roads that are muddy or brick. They could also have a patented power drive system that enables them to move in tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the gates for boarding. It is crucial to contact the airline in advance to make sure they are aware of any specific needs and to confirm that they can meet the requirements. Some airlines require you to be at least an hour before your departure time which is essential in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of a wheelchair or mobility scooter. This space is limited and it's first come first served. Federal regulations also require that any additional batteries be checked with the scooter or wheelchair. They must be removed unless they are specifically designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to bringing electric wheelchairs or scooters on their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour before your flight to 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. These electric chairs can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline standards for battery size and handling, as well as stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These experts can assist you in planning your travel itinerary and provide you with the latest information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines ask that you take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that the battery is safely stowed in a straight position.
Depending on the airline you use depending on your airline, you might be asked to label your wheelchair with the following details such as your name address, address, phone number, and model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment in case it is lost or damaged during your trip. You may also want to think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that help you remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airline and airport personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. Arriving earlier than this is even better if possible especially during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and allows the representative of the airline plenty of time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you travel, take a picture of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged on the flight. This will give you the leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for damages. Consider bringing along a seat cushion to make the trip as comfortable as you can. A seat cushion is essential when you travel for over an hour, as it will reduce the pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane is an overwhelming experience. Air travel with a power chair is feasible with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, speak to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They can guide you in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to make your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it is recommended that you arrive at least one hour before your flight. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure it is safely and properly stored to be ready for your trip.
Based on the cheap power chairs model of power chair you own It could be required to disassemble it prior to transport. In this case, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the table to aid airline personnel 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 an excellent idea to take out any accessories that can be removed prior to when you go to the airport and to ensure all the controls are functioning properly.
When you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. The airlines are not allowed to charging you a cost to store assistive devices, like power wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for people who have disabilities, as it helps them save money.
An airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit down the aircraft aisle when the plane arrives. You can then disembark and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the shortest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft or at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with right planning and following guidelines you can have fun exploring new destinations. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you are not comfortable in your chair, you will never be able to enjoy the freedom that travel offers.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for those with mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the experience less stressful for you, however it's important to adhere to your airline's policies for the transportation and storage of your chair on board the airplane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact the airline prior to your travels to inquire about their policy and ask any questions.
Most airlines will allow you to take an electric wheelchair on your flight as provided it's prepared for travel. Certain airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will require a physician's letter to allow you to fly with your powered wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require you to disassemble the battery-powered part of your wheelchair and place it in a case that is protected.
When you arrive at the airport, make 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. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, like the owner's manual as well as any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will speed up the check-in and prevent confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
If you are at the ticket counter of your airline or gate, be sure you be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Explain the kind of wheelchair you own and any other accessories you may require like cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage or whether it will be transported to the plane using a specialized cart. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book an direct flight to cut down on the number times your equipment is moved between places.
Once your wheelchair is in the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment, just like checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra to store your scooter or wheelchair like they do with your luggage. Take a photograph of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.