What Is The Reason Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Is The Right Choice For You?
What Is The Reason Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Is The Right Choice For You?
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are many things to consider. The airport staff and at the airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information 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?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and safely stowed on planes. The FAA can approve them for use on flights and they can be kept in the airplane as checked baggage. Additionally they'll be able to maneuver on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips brick or roads that are muddy. They can also be equipped with a patented drive system which allows them to maneuver 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 essential to contact the airline prior to your departure to ensure they are aware of any specific needs and confirm that they will be able to accommodate them. Certain airlines require you to be at least one hour prior to your scheduled departure time, which is important during busy travel periods.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes for the stowage of a mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is not large enough, and it's first come, first serve. The federal regulations also demand that any additional batteries be checked by the scooter or wheelchair. They must be removed unless they are specifically designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask to check-in at least an hour prior to your flight time so that they can ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get assembly/disassembly information and other helpful information regarding your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are made for secure and comfortable travel. These electric chairs can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline guidelines for battery size handling, stowage, and handling. If you plan to travel with the airline of your preference, you should contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist you in planning your travel plans and provide you with the most up-to-date details regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety. You can then put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed, and that it is safely stowed upright.
Depending on the airline you fly with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, your address, your phone number, and the wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it is stolen or damaged during your travels. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will assist you in staying in your chair during transfers with airport personnel and airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure to ensure proper equipment storage. If possible, arrive earlier than two hours before the time you plan to depart. This is especially important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This lets you check-in early and allows the representative of the airline plenty of time to help you stow your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair before you travel. This can be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for any damages. You should also think about bringing a seat cushion with you to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as it can be for you. Cushions for seats are essential when you travel for more than an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane is an intimidating experience. But, with the right preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, air travel with a power chair is feasible.
Talk to an airline representative before making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best method to check into your seat regardless of whether it's at the ticket counter or the gate. In any case, it is recommended to arrive at least an hour before your flight. This gives the airline ample time to inspect your equipment and ensure that it will be stowed safely for your journey.
Depending on the type of power chair you own It could be necessary to disassemble it for transport. If this is the case, it's beneficial to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly in order to aid the airline employees handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. You should also remove electric powered wheelchairs for sale any accessories that are removable and check whether all controls function before leaving for the airport.
Once you are at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. The airlines aren't allowed to charging an additional cost to store assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for those who have disabilities, as it allows them to save money.
When the plane lands in the air, a representative from the airline will be in a position to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit into the aisle of the aircraft. You will then be able to disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as is possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines you can have fun exploring new locations. The most important thing to remember is that if you are not comfortable in your chair, you'll not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that traveling provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for those with mobility issues. If you're traveling with a wheelchair or a scooter can make your trip more enjoyable. However, it is essential to follow the airline's guidelines regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your departure to ask about their policy and get any questions answered.
Many airlines will allow you to take a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight, so you've prepared it for travel. Some airlines require that you charge the batteries prior to boarding and others heavy duty electric wheelchair will require a physician's letter to allow you to travel with your electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also demand that you take down the battery powered portion of your wheelchair, and then place it in an enclosure that is protected.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before flight. Bring any documents you require to the airport, such as your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will help speed up the process of checking in and will make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
On arrival at the ticket counter or at the gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Explain the kind of wheelchair you own and any other accessories you may require, such as cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline lightweight wheelchair electric if they will be placing chairs electric your wheelchair in a specific cart or examining it for storage. If you're going to transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, you should try to take a discount electric wheelchairs direct flight which will minimize the amount of times your equipment will be transferred between locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo area along with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. If your equipment arrives damaged, you must take a picture of it before leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.