A Look At The Myths And Facts Behind Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
A Look At The Myths And Facts Behind Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to consider. The airport staff and the airline will inquire about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information ready prior to your trip to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that comply with the requirements for air travel.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA will approve them for use on flights and they can be stored in the airplane as checked baggage. Additionally they'll be able to maneuver on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or muddy roads. They could also be fitted with a unique drive system that allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the gate to board. It is essential to contact the airline prior to your departure to ensure that they are aware of any special needs and confirm that they can meet the requirements. Some airlines require that you 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 aircrafts to allow the stowage of a mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited, and it's first come, first served. They also require that any extra batteries be checked as part of the scooter or wheelchair since federal regulations require that they be disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with an effective design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when you bring electric wheelchairs or scooters on their flights. They also request to check-in at least an hour before your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful information regarding your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure secure and comfortable travel. These power chairs can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline guidelines for battery size and handling, as well as stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can assist you in planning your travel itinerary and provide you with the latest details regarding battery requirements. They can also provide you with assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines will require you to take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is secured in a upright position.
Depending on your airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following information such as your name address, number, and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it gets lost or damaged during your trip. You may want to buy aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will help you remain in your seat during transfers 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 stowage. Arriving earlier than this is even better, especially during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This lets you check in earlier and gives ample time for the representative of the airline to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you travel and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your device is damaged during your flight. This will give you ability to seek compensation from the airline for damages. You should also consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat so that your journey is as comfortable as possible for you. Using a seat cushion is especially important when you travel for over an hour, as it will reduce the pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that is accepted by the airline can be a daunting task. But, with the right preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, traveling with your power chair is feasible.
Before you book your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can help you navigate in the right direction, whether you prefer to get your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, it is advised to arrive at least one hour prior to your flight. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and ensure that it will be safely towed for your journey.
Based on the model of power chair you have It may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. If this is the case, it is helpful to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly in order to aid the staff of the airline handling your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair, including the owner's manual as well as warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable items prior to you leave for the airport, and to make sure all of the controls are in working order.
Once you are at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra fees for the stowing of assistive devices like power chairs. This is a huge benefit for those with disabilities since they can avoid unnecessary costs.
An airline employee will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit down the aisle of the aircraft once the plane arrives. You will then be able to get off the plane and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as you can in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
A trip with an electric wheelchair can seem daunting, but with careful planning and adhering to the guidelines, it is possible to experience the joy of exploring new places without difficulty. It is crucial to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. If you're using an electric or wheelchair, it can make your trip more enjoyable. However, it's essential to follow the airline's guidelines for bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to inquire about their policy on power chairs and to ask any questions.
Most airlines allow passengers to bring an electric wheelchair on your flight as you've prepared it for travel. Certain airlines might require you to recharge the batteries prior to boarding and some will need to have a medical note in order to allow you to fly with your electric chair. Some airlines may also require that you take down the battery powered portion of your wheelchair, and place it in an enclosure that is protected.
Once you're at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours prior to the time of departure to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for electric wheelchair 25 stone flight. Bring any documentation you may need to the airport, like your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will help speed up the check-in process and prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
When you reach the ticket counter of your airline or gate, make sure you be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Discuss your wheelchair and any accessories you might require like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or if it will be transferred to the plane using a specialized cart. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book an express flight to reduce the amount of times your equipment is moved between places.
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 extra fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment arrives damaged, make sure you capture a photo before you leave the airport and immediately notify the airline.