Your Family Will Thank You For Getting This Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
Your Family Will Thank You For Getting This Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many things you should consider when traveling with powered chairs. Airport and airline staff will ask you a lot of questions about your chair's dimensions, battery type and how it should be handled.
Make sure you have these details in hand prior to you head to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are able to be safely transported and stowed on planes. The FAA can approve them for air travel, and they can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. They will also be able navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration stripes, bricks or muddy roads. They can also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending that allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the gates for boarding. It is essential to call the airline ahead of time to make sure they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate these requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour ahead of your departure time This is particularly important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of a mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is not large enough and is first come, first serve. The federal regulations also demand that all batteries added to the system be inspected by a wheelchair or scooter. They must be removed unless they are specifically designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour prior to your flight so that they can ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. In addition, they ask to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions as well as other useful information regarding your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed for safe and convenient travel. These electric chairs can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and stowage. If you're planning to travel with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Some airlines ask that you take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals aren't exposed, and that it is stowed upright.
Depending on the airline you fly with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, address, your number, and your wheelchair model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it is lost or damaged during your travels. You may also think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will aid you in staying in your wheelchair when you transfer with airport and airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport 2 hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. If possible be there at least two hours earlier than your scheduled departure time. This is especially important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and gives the airline representative plenty of time to help you stow your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair prior to travel. This serves as proof if your device is damaged on the flight. This will help you in obtaining compensation for the damages from the airline. Consider bringing along an extra cushion for your seat to make your flight as comfortable as possible. Seat cushions are especially important for flights lasting over an hour. They reduce the pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane is an overwhelming experience. But, with the right preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, air travel using your electric chair is possible.
Before booking your flight, talk to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They can help you navigate in the right direction, regardless of whether you prefer to make your seat at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it is recommended to arrive at least an hour before your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to examine your equipment and ensure that it will be stowed safely to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the model of your power chair It may be necessary for you to disassemble it prior to it is transported. In this instance it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the go to help airline personnel handling your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair, such as the owner's manual or warranty information. Also, remove any accessories that are removable and ensure that all controls are functioning 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 plane. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra fees to store assistive devices, such as electric chairs. This is an excellent benefit for those with disabilities as they can save money.
Once the plane is in the air, an airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to slide into the here aisle of the aircraft. Then, you can disembark, and your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the nearest possible location to the door of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or at the gate.
Traveling with an electric wheelchair may seem daunting, but with careful planning and adherence to guidelines, it is possible to experience the joy of exploring new places easily. It is essential to keep in mind that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for people with mobility problems. Having a wheelchair or more info scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, but it is important to follow the guidelines of your airline for transporting and stowing your chair on the airplane. Contact the airline ahead of time to find out their policy on power chairs and to ask any questions.
Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, as that you prepare read more it properly to travel. Some airlines might require you to charge the batteries before boarding, and some will need to have a medical note on file prior to being able to allow you to fly with your motorized chair. Some airlines may also require that you remove the battery-powered part of your wheelchair, and place it in a case click here that is safe.
Get to the airport at least two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before flight. Bring any documentation you may need to the airport, like your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will make it easier for the check-in process and can help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
On arrival at the airline's ticket counter or at the gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Be sure to describe the type of wheelchair you have and any accessories you require, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or if it will be transferred to the aircraft using an appropriate cart. If you're transferring to the plane with your electric wheelchair, you should try to make a direct flight which will cut down on the number of times that your equipment will be transferred between locations.
Once your wheelchair is in the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment as checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of your wheelchair or scooter, the same way they would mobility wheelchair electric with your luggage. Take a photograph of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.