Five Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Lessons From Professionals
Five Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Lessons From Professionals
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several things to consider when traveling with powered chairs. The staff at the airport and at the airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair, battery type, and how to use it.
Make sure you have this information ready before you go to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that are compliant with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stowed on planes. The FAA can approve them for air travel and they can be stored in the airplane as checked baggage. Furthermore they'll be able to navigate on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or roads that are muddy. They can also be equipped with a unique drive system that allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter until the gate to board. It is however important to contact them ahead of time to make sure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet your needs. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour before the time of departure This is particularly important during busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. This space is limited and is first come first served. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected as part of the wheelchair or scooter, since federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless it is equipped with an effective design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when taking an electric wheelchair or scooter aboard their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour before your flight so that they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get assembly/disassembly information and other helpful details about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure secure and comfortable travel. These electric chairs can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline guidelines for battery size and handling, as well as 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 trip and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is securely tucked away in an upright position.
Based on your airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following information including your name address, address, phone number and model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment if it is lost or damaged during your travels. You may also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will allow you to remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airline and airport personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours before your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better, especially during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and provides ample time for the airline representative to assist you with stowing your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair before you travel. This will serve as proof if your check here device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage in pursuing compensation for any damages from the airline. You should consider bringing cushions to make the trip as comfortable as you possibly click here can. Cushions for seats are essential for flights that last more than an hour. They will reduce pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those who travel with an approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane could be an overwhelming experience. But, with the right preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, flying with your power chair is possible.
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, regardless of whether you prefer to check-in your seat at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour before your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure it is safely stowed for your journey.
Depending on your power chair It could be necessary for you to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it's helpful to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions available to assist airline personnel handling your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair, like the owner's manual as well as warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable items prior to you travel to the airport and also to ensure that all of the controls are functioning properly.
When you arrive at the airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and then stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra fees for the stowing check here of assistive devices like electric chairs. This is a huge benefit for those with disabilities since they can avoid unnecessary costs.
An airline employee will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that will fit on the aisle of the aircraft when the plane lands. Then, you will be able to get off the plane and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as you can, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It might be difficult to travel in an electric chair, but with right planning and following guidelines, you can enjoy exploring new destinations. The most important thing to remember is that if you're not comfortable moving around in your chair, you will never enjoy the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for those who have mobility problems. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stress-inducing for you, but it's important to adhere to the guidelines of your airline for bringing and stowing your chair on the airplane. Contact the airline ahead of time to learn about their policies on power chairs and to ask any questions.
Most airlines allow passengers to bring an electric wheelchair on your flight, so provided it's prepared for travel. Some airlines get more info may require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and some may require you to have a medical note on file before they will allow you to fly with your motorized chair. Some airlines may also require that you take down the battery-powered portion of your chair and place it in a case that is safe.
Once you're at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours before your scheduled departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documentation you may require to the airport, including your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will help speed up the check-in process and make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
Upon arriving at the airline's ticket counter or gate, make sure to clearly communicate your mobility requirements. Discuss your wheelchair and any other accessories you may need like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage or whether it will be transported to the aircraft using an appropriate cart. If you're going to transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to make a direct flight which will minimize the amount of times your equipment will be transferred between different locations.
Once your wheelchair is in the plane it will be stored in the cargo compartment along with your checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging additional fees for the storage read more of a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment is damaged, be sure to take a photograph before you leave the airport and immediately notify the airline.