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?
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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are several aspects to be considered. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you numerous questions about your chair's dimensions, battery type and how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information ready prior to your trip to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and stowed securely on airplanes. They typically come with a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stored under the plane as checked luggage. They will also be able maneuver on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes, bricks or muddy roads. They may also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending that allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate for boarding. However, it is essential to contact them prior to time to ensure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet those needs. Certain airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to your departure time This is particularly important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes that allows for the stowage of a wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is limited and operated on the basis of first-come-first-serve. The federal regulations also demand that all extra batteries be checked by the scooter or wheelchair. They must be shut off unless they are designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask that you check in an hour before your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions as well as other useful information about your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to provide a safe and convenient method of travel. These chairs are designed to fold up and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and stowage. If you're planning to travel with the airline of your choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These experts can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety. You can then put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed and that it is placed upright.
Depending on the airline you fly with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, your address, your number, and the wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event that it is stolen or damaged during your travels. You may want to buy aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to allow you to remain in your chair during transfers with airport personnel and airline personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at at two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure proper stowage of your equipment is accomplished. If you can, arrive at least two hours earlier than the time you plan to depart. This is particularly crucial light electric wheelchairs during busy holiday times or rush hour. This allows you to check in earlier and gives ample time for the airline representative to assist you in stowing your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair prior to traveling. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for any damages. You should also consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as it can be for you. Seat cushions are especially important for flights lasting over an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been accepted by the airline can be daunting. Air travel with a power chair is possible with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, talk to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best method to check-in your chair regardless of whether it's at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour prior to your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it is properly stowed for your trip.
Depending on the model of your power chair It may be necessary to disassemble it prior to transport. In this instance it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the go to help airline personnel who will handle your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. Also, take off any removable items and make sure whether all controls function before you depart for the airport.
Once you are at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the plane. Airlines are cheapest electric wheelchairs not allowed to charge extra to store assistive devices, like power chairs. This is a huge benefit for those with disabilities as it helps them save money.
A representative from the airline can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which can be able to fit into the aircraft aisle when the plane arrives. Then, you can disembark, and your wheelchair is returned to you at the nearest possible location to the aircraft door, either at the jetbridge or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with right planning and following the rules you will be able to here enjoy exploring new places. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if not comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to fully take advantage of the freedom that travel affords.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for people who have mobility problems. The click here use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stress-inducing for you, but it's important to adhere to the guidelines of your airline for the transportation and storage of your chair on board the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact the airline prior to your departure to inquire about their policy and to get any questions answered.
Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized chair for your flight, so provided you prepare it correctly for travel. Some airlines might require you to recharge the batteries before boarding, and some will need to have a doctor's recommendation on file before they will allow you to fly using your electric chair. Some airlines may also require you to remove the battery-powered part of your wheelchair and place it in a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours before your departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. Bring any documentation you may need to the airport, like your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This mobility electric chair will speed up the check-in and prevent confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
When you reach the airline ticket counter or gate, be sure to explain your mobility needs clearly. Provide the kind of wheelchair you're using and any necessary accessories, such as cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or the possibility of transferring it to the aircraft using an appropriate cart. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book an express flight to reduce the number times your equipment is moved between locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo area along with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. Take a picture of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.