Why Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Could Be Your Next Big Obsession?
Why Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Could Be Your Next Big Obsession?
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are many things to take into consideration. The staff at the airport and the airline will inquire about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to use it.
Be sure to have this information in your possession prior to you leave for the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that comply with the requirements for air travel.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and stowed securely on planes. They usually have an unspillable battery that is 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 like gravel, deceleration strips brick or muddy roads. They may also be equipped with a patented drive system that permits them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the gates for boarding. However, it is essential to contact them prior to time to ensure they are aware of your needs and confirm that they can meet your needs. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour before the time of departure which is crucial 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 mobility scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited and on a first-come, first-serve basis. The federal regulations also demand that any additional batteries be checked by the scooter or wheelchair. They must be disconnected unless they are specifically designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also request that you check in one hour before your flight, to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful information regarding your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure safe and convenient travel. These power chairs can be folded and comply with airline guidelines regarding battery size and handling, as well as stowage. If you're planning to travel with the airline of your choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist you in planning your travel plans and provide you with the most current details regarding battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. 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 that it is safely stowed upright.
Depending on the airline you fly with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, address, your number, and your wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it is lost or damaged during your travels. You may also want to look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will aid you in staying in your wheelchair while you travel with airline and airport personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. If you can you can arrive earlier than two hours prior to the time you plan to depart. This is particularly crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This allows you to check in early and allows the airline representative plenty of time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair prior to travel. This serves as proof if your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for the damages from the airline. It is also advisable to bring an extra cushion for your seat to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as it can be for you. Using a seat cushion is essential when you travel for more than an hour, since it reduces pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be daunting. Traveling with a power chair is possible with the proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Speak to an airline representative before making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best way to check into your seat, whether it is at the ticket counter or the gate. In either case, it's advised to arrive at least one hour before your flight. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it's safely and properly stored for your journey.
Based on the model of power chair you own It may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. In this case it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the table to aid airline personnel who will all terrain electric wheelchair handle 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 recommended to take off any accessories that can be removed prior to when you travel to the airport, and to make sure all the controls are in working order.
Once you arrive at an airport the electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and then stowed. The airlines are not allowed to charging an additional fee to stow assistive devices, such as power wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for passengers with disabilities as they can avoid unnecessary costs.
An airline employee can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can be able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft when the plane arrives. You will then be able to board the plane, and your power wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as possible in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
Traveling with an electric wheelchair can seem daunting, but with the right planning and adherence to guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new locations with ease. The most important thing to remember is that if you're not comfortable moving around in your chair, you'll not be able to fully take advantage of the freedom that travel offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for those with mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, however it's important to adhere to the policies of your airline regarding transporting and stowing your chair on the airplane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact your airline prior to your travels to inquire about their policies and ask any questions.
Most airlines allow you to take a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight, so provided it's prepared for travel. Some airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a doctor's letter prior to allowing you to fly with your power wheelchair. Some airlines may also demand that you remove the battery powered portion of your chair, and place it into a case that is safe.
When you arrive at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's important to bring any documentation, such as your owner's manual or instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will make it easier for the process of checking in and will make sure that there is no confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.
When you arrive at the airline's ticket counter or at the gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility requirements. Provide a description of your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you may require like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage or the possibility of transferring it to the aircraft with an appropriate cart. If you're transferring to the plane using your electric wheelchair, you should try to book a direct flight, which will cut down on the amount of times your equipment will be moved between different locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment as checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. If your equipment is damaged, you must capture a photo before you leave the airport and immediately inform the airline.