Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Tools To Enhance Your Daily Life
Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Tools To Enhance Your Daily Life
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are several things to take into consideration. The airport staff and at the airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have these details prepared before you travel to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA will approve them for travel on planes, and they can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore they'll be able to navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips brick or roads that are muddy. They could also be equipped with an exclusive power drive system that permits them to navigate in tight spaces, or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the boarding gates. It is essential to contact the airline in advance to ensure they are aware of any specific requirements and to confirm that they can meet the requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour before the departure time you have scheduled which is essential during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is limited and operates on the basis of first-come-first-serve. Federal regulations also require that all batteries added to the system be checked with the scooter or wheelchair. They must be disconnected unless they are designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to you bring electric wheelchairs or scooters on their flights. They also request that you check-in an hour before your flight so that they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions as well as other useful information regarding your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to offer the most secure and comfortable method of travel. These chairs are designed to fold and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in planning your travel plans and provide you with the latest details regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety and then place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed, and it is stored upright.
Based on your airline or airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following information including your name address, address, phone number and model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment if it is lost or damaged during your travels. You might also think about purchasing slings that are 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.
You should always arrive at at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that the proper storage of your equipment is accomplished. If you are able be there earlier than two hours prior to your scheduled departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This lets you check in early and provides ample time for the airline representative to assist you in stowing your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair prior to travel. This can be used as proof in the event that your device gets damaged during the flight. This will help you in pursuing compensation for the damages from the airline. You should also think about bringing an extra cushion for your seat, so that the flight is as comfortable as it can be for you. Seat cushions are especially important when you travel for more than an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.
Check-In
For those who travel with an airline approved electric wheelchair, boarding a plane can be an intimidating experience. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is achievable with proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Talk to an airline representative before booking your flight to electric powered wheelchairs for sale learn more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you in the best direction, whether you prefer to get your seat at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour prior to your flight is recommended. This gives the airline ample time to examine your equipment and make sure that it is safely stored for your journey.
Depending on the model of your power chair It may be necessary to disassemble the chair prior to it is transported. If this is the case, it is important to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly available to assist airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. It is also recommended to remove any accessories that are removable and check whether all controls function before you leave for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the airplane. The airlines aren't allowed to charging an additional cost to store assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is a great benefit for those with disabilities since it allows them to avoid costly expenses.
When the plane lands, an airline employee will be able to transfer you from your power wheelchair to one that can fit in the aisle of the aircraft. After disembarking, your wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or the gate.
It might be difficult to travel in an electric chair, but with right planning and following the rules, you can enjoy exploring new places. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if not comfortable moving around in your chair, you'll not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that traveling provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be very stressful for people who have mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stressful for you, but it's important to adhere to the policies of your airline regarding bringing and stowing your chair on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your departure to ask about their policy and to get any questions answered.
Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized chair for your flight, as provided you prepare it properly to travel. Certain airlines may require you to discharge the batteries before boarding, and some may require you to have a doctor's recommendation on file prior to being able to allow you to fly with your electric chair. Certain airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery powered portion of your wheelchair, and place it in a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours before the time of departure so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, including your owner's manual or instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
If you are at the counter for tickets to airline or gate, make sure to be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Explain the type of wheelchair you have and any other accessories you may require, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be keeping your wheelchair in a special cart or checking it for storage. If you're transferring to the plane with your electric wheelchair, try to take a direct flight which will reduce the number of times your equipment is moved between various locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo compartment with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. Take a picture of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.