Your Family Will Thank You For Getting This Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
Your Family Will Thank You For Getting This Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are many things to consider. Airport and airline staff will ask you many questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have all this information in your possession prior to you leave for the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that meet 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. They typically come with non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel. They can be tucked under the plane as checked luggage. They can also navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration stripes, bricks or muddy roads. They can also be equipped with a unique drive system that allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the gate to board. However, it is important to contact them prior to time to ensure that they are aware of your needs and confirm that they can meet your needs. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of the time of departure This is particularly important during 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 not large enough and it's first come first served. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair, as federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless the chair is equipped with a safe design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before you bring electric wheelchairs or scooters on their flights. They also request that you check-in an hour prior to your flight time to ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. In addition, they ask to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent details about your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are made for comfortable and safe travel. These power chairs can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and stowage. If you are planning to travel with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety and then place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is secured in a upright position.
Depending on the airline you use or airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following information such as your name, address, phone number, and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it is stolen or mishandled on your trip. You may want to buy aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will assist you in staying in your chair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure to ensure proper equipment storage. If you are able, arrive earlier than two hours before your scheduled departure time. This is especially important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This allows you to check in earlier and gives plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you in stowing your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair before you travel. This can be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged electric wheelchair heavy duty during the flight. This will give you ability to seek compensation from the airline for damages. It is also advisable to bring cushions for your seats so that your journey is as relaxing as possible for you. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights lasting over an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, getting on a plane could be an overwhelming experience. Air travel with a power chair is possible website with the 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 on the best method to check in your chair whether at the counter for tickets or the gate. In either case, it is recommended that you arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to inspect your equipment and make sure that it will be stowed safely for your trip.
Depending on the model of your power chair, it may be necessary for you to disassemble it prior to it is transported. If this is the case, it is important to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions on hand to help the airline employees handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. It is also recommended to remove any accessories that are removable and ensure that all controls work before you leave for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and stowed. Airlines are not allowed to charge you extra for stowing assistive devices such as power chairs. This is a wonderful benefit for people with disabilities, since it allows them to avoid unnecessary expenses.
Once the plane is in the air in the air, a representative from the airline will be in a here position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to get more info a wheelchair that is able to fit down the aircraft aisle. You will then be able to board the plane, and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as you read more can, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with the right planning and following the rules you will be able to enjoy exploring new destinations. It is important to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair you won't be able to travel with the freedom it offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for those who have mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, however it's important to adhere to your airline's policies for bringing and stowing your chair on the airplane. 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 take a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight, so long as it's properly prepared for travel. Some airlines require that you discharge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will need a doctor's letter to allow you to travel with your electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery-powered portion of your chair and place it in a protective case.
Get to the airport at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, such as your owner manual and any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will speed up check-in process and help avoid confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the ticket counter of your airline or at the gate, be sure to be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Explain your wheelchair and any other accessories you may need, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be keeping your wheelchair in a specific cart or examining it for storage. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book an express flight to reduce the amount of times your equipment is moved between different locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded in 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 fees for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. Take a photo of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.