What Is Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair And Why Is Everyone Dissing It?
What Is Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair And Why Is Everyone Dissing It?
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are several things to consider. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you numerous questions regarding your chair's dimensions, battery type and how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information ready before you go to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that comply with air travel regulations.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be carried and stowed securely on airplanes. They typically come with non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel and can be tucked under the plane as checked baggage. They will also be able move on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration stripes, bricks or muddy roads. They could also have an exclusive power drive system that enables them to move in tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate for boarding. It is crucial to contact the airline in advance to ensure they are aware of any specific needs and confirm that they can 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 planes that allows for the stowage and storage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited and operates on an initial-come first-serve basis. The federal regulations also demand that all extra batteries be checked with the wheelchair or scooter. They must be removed unless they are designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to taking an electric wheelchair or scooter aboard their flights. They also require that you check in one hour before your flight, so 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 power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed for safe and convenient travel. They can be folded and comply with airline standards for battery size and handling, as well as stowage. If you are planning to fly with your airline of choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the 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 provide instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety purposes and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed, and that it is placed upright.
Based on your airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following information such as your name, address, phone number, and model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment in case it is lost or damaged during your trip. You may also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will aid you in staying in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. If you can you can arrive earlier than two hours prior to your scheduled departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This lets you arrive early and allows plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you with stowing your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair before you travel. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you the ability to seek compensation from the airline for any damages. You should consider bringing cushions to make the trip as comfortable as you possibly can. Seat cushions are particularly important when you travel for more than an hour. They will reduce pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be daunting. Air travel with a power chair is feasible with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Talk to an airline representative prior to booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best method to check-in your chair whether at the ticket counter or 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 is properly stowed for your trip.
Based on the model of chair you own, it may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. If this is the case, it is important to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions in order to aid the staff of the airline handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. Also, take off any removable items and check that all controls work before you depart for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport the electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and then stowed. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra for the stowing of assistive devices like power chairs. This is an excellent benefit for passengers with disabilities, as it helps them avoid unnecessary expenses.
An airline employee can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which can fit down the aircraft aisle when the plane arrives. Then, you will be able to disembark, and your power wheelchair will be returned to website you close to the aircraft door as you can or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric wheelchair can seem intimidating, but with proper planning and adhering to the guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new places easily. The most important thing to remember is that if you're not comfortable in your chair, you will never be able to enjoy the freedom that traveling affords.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for people who suffer from mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, but it's essential to follow your airline's policies for bringing and stowing your chair on the airplane. Contact the airline ahead of time to find out their policy regarding power chairs and to ask any questions.
Most airlines will let you bring an electric chair on your flight, so provided you prepare it for travel. Certain airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will need a doctor's letter to allow you to travel with your power wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require you to disassemble the battery-powered part of your wheelchair and place it in a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours before your departure time to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, including the owner's manual as well as any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will make it easier for the check-in process and prevent any confusion regarding your airline's wheelchair policies.
Upon arriving at the airline's ticket counter or gate, make sure to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Provide a description of your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you might require for example, seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be placing your wheelchair in a special cart or checking it for stowage. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book an express flight to reduce the amount of times your equipment is moved between locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment as checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you additional fees for the storage of your scooter or wheelchair, the same way they would with your luggage. Take a picture of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.