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
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are many things to consider. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you a lot of questions about your chair's dimensions, battery type and how it should be handled.
Make sure you have these details in hand prior to you leave for the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and stowed safely on planes. They usually have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel. They can be tucked under the plane as checked baggage. In addition, they will be able to move on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips brick or roads that are muddy. They can also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending which allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the boarding gates. It is crucial to contact the airline in advance to make sure they are aware of any specific requirements and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate these requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to the time of departure, which is especially important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is limited and it's first come, first serve. Federal regulations also require that any additional batteries be checked by the wheelchair or scooter. They must be shut off unless they are designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when you bring an electric wheelchair or scooter on their flights. They also require that you check in one hour before your flight so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions and other helpful details about your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are made for comfortable and safe travel. These power chairs are made to fold, and they conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can assist you in planning your trip and give you the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require you to remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed, and it is stowed upright.
Depending on the airline you fly with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, address, your number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment in case it should become lost or damaged during your travels. You may also want to think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will help you remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport 2 hours prior to your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. Arriving earlier than this is even better if possible especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and allows the representative of the airline plenty of 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 ability to seek compensation from the airline for damages. You should consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to make the flight as comfortable as you possibly can. The use of a cushion for your seat is particularly important for flights that last more than an hour, since it reduces pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, getting on a plane could be an overwhelming experience. However, with the proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, air travel using your electric chair is feasible.
Before booking your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the best direction, regardless of whether you prefer to get your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it is recommended that you arrive at least an hour before your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure that it is properly stored for your journey.
Depending on the kind of power chair you own, it may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. If this is the case, it's important to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions in order to aid the airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any detachable power chair items prior to you go to the airport and also to ensure that all of the controls are in working order.
When you arrive at the airport, your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and then stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge you extra for the stowing of assistive devices such as power chairs. This is a great benefit for those with disabilities since it helps them avoid costly expenses.
After the plane has landed at the airport, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to slide down the aircraft aisle. After disembarking, your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible location to the door of the aircraft or at the jetbridge or the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with right planning and following the rules, you can enjoy exploring new destinations. It is essential to keep in mind that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to travel with the freedom it affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for people who have mobility problems. If you have an electric or wheelchair, it can make your experience more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow the airline's guidelines regarding bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact your airline before your trip to inquire about their policies and ask any questions.
Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, as provided you prepare it for travel. Some airlines require that you discharge power chairs uk the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a doctor's letter to allow you to travel with your powered wheelchair. Some airlines may also require that you remove the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair, and place it into a protective case.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at least two hours before the time of departure to ensure that your airline website can prepare your wheelchair before departure. It's recommended to bring any documentation, including the owner's manual as well as any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will make it easier for the check-in process and help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
When you reach the airline ticket counter or gate, make sure to communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Explain your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you may power chair prices need, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or whether it will be transported to the plane using an adapted cart. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book a direct flight to minimize the number of times your device is moved between different locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane it will be cost of electric wheelchair stored in the cargo compartment as checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you extra to store your scooter or wheelchair, like they do with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, you must take a photograph before leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.