What Do You Do To Know If You're Set To Go After Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
What Do You Do To Know If You're Set To Go After Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many aspects to take into consideration when traveling with a powered chair. The staff at the airport and the airline will inquire about your chair, its dimensions and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Be sure to have all this information at hand before you travel to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with the air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and stowed safely on planes. They typically come with a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stored under the plane as checked luggage. In addition they'll be able to navigate on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or muddy roads. They could also be fitted with a drive system that is patent-pending which allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter to the boarding gate. However, it is essential to contact them prior to time to ensure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet your needs. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour before the time of departure This is particularly important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. This space is limited and operates on an initial-come first-serve basis. They also require that any extra batteries be checked as part of the scooter or wheelchair, since federal regulations require that they are disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with an effective design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also request 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 airport personnel can gather assembly/disassembly information and other helpful details about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure secure and comfortable 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 the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These experts can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines ask that you take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is securely tucked away in a upright position.
Depending on the airline you fly with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, address, your number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it should become lost or damaged during your trip. You may also want to look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will help you remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. Being earlier than that is even better, especially during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This lets you check in earlier and gives plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you in stowing your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair before you travel. This can be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you ability to seek compensation from the airline in case of damages. It is also advisable to bring cushions for your seats, so that the flight is as comfortable as it can be for you. Seat cushions are especially important for flights lasting over an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those who travel using an approved airline electric wheelchair, the process of boarding a plane can be an overwhelming experience. Traveling with a power chair is feasible with right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Speak to an airline representative prior to booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best way to check into your seat regardless of whether it's at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour prior to your flight is suggested. This allows the airline plenty of time to check your equipment and ensure it is safely stored for your trip.
Based on the power chair you have It may be necessary to disassemble it before transport. In this case it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the table to aid airline employees who handle your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair, including the owner's manual and warranty information. Also, take off any removable items and make sure whether all controls function before leaving for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and then stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging you a fee to stow assistive devices, such as electric wheelchairs. This is a great feature for passengers with disabilities, because it can help them save money.
After the plane has landed at the airport, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to fit down the aircraft aisle. After disembarking, your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible location to the aircraft door, either at the jetbridge or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with right planning and following the rules, you can enjoy exploring new destinations. The most important thing to remember is that if you are not comfortable moving around in your chair, you'll never enjoy the freedom that travel affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, however it's important to adhere to your airline's policies for the transportation and storage of your chair on board the airplane. Contact the airline ahead of time to learn about their policies on power chairs and to ask any questions.
Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair on your flight, so that you prepare it for travel. Some airlines might require you to recharge the batteries before boarding, and some will need to have a medical note on file before they will let you fly with your motorized chair. Some airlines may also require that you take down the battery-powered portion of your chair, and place it in a case that is safe.
When you arrive at the airport, make sure to electric wheelchair heavy duty arrive at least two hours before the time of departure so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. Bring any documentation you might require to the airport, like your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will make it easier for the check-in process and prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
On arrival at the counter for tickets or at the gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Provide the kind of wheelchair you own and any other accessories you may require like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be placing your wheelchair in a special cart or examining it for stowage. If you're transferring to the plane using your electric wheelchair, make sure to take a direct flight which will cut down on the number of times that your equipment will be transferred between various locations.
Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo compartment along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. Take a photograph of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.