A Guide To Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair From Beginning To End
A Guide To Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair From Beginning To End
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are several aspects to be considered. The airport staff and at the airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair, battery type, and how to use it.
Make sure you have these details ready prior to your trip to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that meet air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be carried and safely stowed on airplanes. The FAA will approve them for use on flights, and they can be kept in the airplane as checked baggage. Furthermore they'll be able to move on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips, brick or muddy roads. They may also have an exclusive power drive system that enables them to move in tight spaces or lifts.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the boarding gates. It is important to contact the airline prior to your departure to ensure they are aware of any special needs and confirm that they are able to meet them. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour before the departure time you have scheduled This is crucial 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. This space is limited and is first come first served. The federal regulations also require that all extra batteries be checked by the scooter or wheelchair. They must be removed unless they are designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair on their flights. They also require 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 about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure secure and comfortable travel. They can be folded and comply with airline standards for battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These experts can help you plan your travel plans and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety and then place it into a carryon bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed, and that it is safely placed upright.
Depending on your airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following information: your name, address, phone number and model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment if it should become lost or mishandled during your trip. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will assist you in staying in your chair while you travel with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. If you are able be there at least two hours earlier than the time you plan to depart. This is especially crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This lets you check-in early and allows the airline representative ample time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you leave to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you the ability to seek compensation from the airline for any damages. You should consider bringing a seat cushion to make the trip as comfortable as you possibly can. Seat cushions are particularly important when you travel for more than an hour. They reduce the pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline may be daunting. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is achievable with right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Talk to an airline representative prior to making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to check-in your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour before your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure that it is properly stowed for your journey.
Based on the model of power chair you have It could be necessary to disassemble it for transport. In this situation it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the go to help airline personnel who will handle your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. You should also remove any removable accessories and check whether all controls function before you depart for the airport.
Once you arrive at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the plane. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you an additional cost to store assistive devices like electric wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for people who have disabilities, as mobility electric chair it helps them save money.
Once the plane is in the air, an airline employee will be able to transfer you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to slide in the aisle of the aircraft. You can then disembark and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the nearest possible location to the aircraft door or at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
A trip with an electric wheelchair may seem intimidating, but with proper planning and adherence to guidelines, you can be able to experience the joy of exploring new destinations with ease. 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 offers.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for people who have mobility issues. If you're using a wheelchair or a scooter could make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it's essential to follow the airline's guidelines for taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your departure to inquire about their policy and get any questions answered.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair for your flight, so that you prepare it properly to travel. Some airlines require that you discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a doctor's letter to allow you to fly with your electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also require you to disassemble the battery-powered component of your chair and put it inside a protective case.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at least two hours before the time of departure to ensure that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to departure. Bring any documentation you might need to the airport, like your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in process and avoid confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the ticket counter of your airline or at the gate, be sure to explain your mobility needs clearly. Explain your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you might require, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or whether it will be transported to the plane using an appropriate cart. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book an express flight to reduce the number times your equipment is moved between locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment along with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging additional fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment is damaged, you must take a picture of it before leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.