The Reasons Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Is More Tougher Than You Think
The Reasons Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Is More Tougher Than You Think
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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few things you should consider when traveling with an electric chair. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you many questions regarding the dimensions of your chair, battery type and how to handle it.
Be sure to have these details in hand prior to you leave for the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that comply with the requirements for air travel.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and stowed securely on planes. The FAA can approve them for travel on planes and they can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. They can also navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration stripes, brick or muddy road. They could also have a patented power drive system that allows them to navigate in tight spaces, or lifts.
Airlines will assist you with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate to board. It is essential to contact the airline prior to your departure to make sure they are aware of any special needs and to confirm that they can meet them. Some airlines require you to arrive an hour before the departure time you have scheduled, which is important in busy 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. This space is limited and it's first come first served. Federal regulations also require that all extra batteries be checked with the wheelchair or scooter. They must be removed unless they are specifically designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when bringing electric wheelchairs or scooters aboard their flights. They also require that you check in an hour before your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent information about your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to offer an efficient and safe way to travel. These electric chairs can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline standards for battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in planning your trip and give you the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety. You can then put it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that the battery is secured in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, your address, your telephone number, and the wheelchair model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment in case it should become lost or damaged during your travels. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to assist you in staying in your chair during transfers with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. If you can you can arrive earlier than two hours prior to your scheduled departure time. This is especially crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and gives the representative of the airline plenty of time to help you stow your chair.
Before you travel to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your device is damaged during your flight. This will give you the leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for any damages. You should consider bringing cushions to make your flight as comfortable as you possibly can. Cushions for seats are essential for flights lasting over an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline may be daunting. Air travel with a power chair is achievable with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Talk to an airline representative prior to making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best method to check-in your chair, whether it is at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour before your flight is recommended. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and ensure that it is safely stored to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the model of your power chair It could be necessary to disassemble the chair prior to transportation. If this is the case, it is beneficial to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly in order to aid the staff of the airline handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. Also, remove any removable accessories and check that all controls work before you leave for the airport.
Once you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you an additional cost to lightweight power chairs store assistive devices like electric wheelchairs. This is a great feature for those with disabilities because it can help them save money.
When the plane lands in the read more air, a representative from the airline will be capable of transferring you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to fit down the aircraft aisle. Then, you can disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the shortest possible click here location to the aircraft door, either at the jetbridge or the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new locations. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you're uncomfortable in your chair, you will not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that travel offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be very stressful for people who suffer from mobility issues. If you're traveling with mobility scooters or wheelchairs, it can make your trip more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's guidelines regarding bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your departure to inquire about their policies and to get any questions answered.
Many airlines will allow passengers to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight, so long as it's properly prepared for travel. Some airlines require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a physician's letter before they will allow you to fly with a power wheelchair. Some airlines will also require you to remove the battery-powered part of your chair and then place it in a case 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 prior to your departure. It's important to bring any documentation, including your owner's manual or assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up the process of checking in and will help avoid confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.
When here you arrive at the airline ticket counter or gate, be sure you be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Discuss your wheelchair and any other accessories you may need, such as seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be examining website your wheelchair for stowage or the possibility of transferring it to the plane using an adapted cart. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book a direct flight to minimize the amount of times your equipment is moved between places.
When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment along with your checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment arrives damaged, make sure you capture a photo prior to leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.