Why Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Isn't As Easy As You Think
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric WheelchairThere are a few aspects to take into consideration when traveling with powered chairs. Airport and airline staff will ask you a lot of questions regarding the dimensions of your chair, battery type and how it should be handled.
Make sure you have this information ready before you go to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that comply with the air travel regulations.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines can be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for use on flights, and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. They can also navigate on rough surfaces like deceleration stripes, gravel, brick or muddy road. They can also be equipped with a patented drive system that permits them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the gates for boarding. It is important to call the airline ahead of time to make sure they are aware of any special needs and to confirm that they can meet them. Certain airlines require you to be at least one hour prior to the departure time you have scheduled, which is important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes for the stowage and storage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited and operated on a first-come, first-serve basis. The federal regulations also require that all batteries added to the system be inspected by a wheelchair or scooter. They must be removed unless they are specifically designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour prior to your flight so that they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions and other helpful details about your mobility or power chair. scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are made for secure and comfortable travel. These chairs are designed to fold up and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and stowage. If you plan to travel with your airline of choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most current details regarding battery requirements. They can also give you assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety and put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed and it is stowed upright.
Depending on the airline you use depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, address, your number, and the wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it gets lost or is mishandled during your journey. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will help you remain in your chair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that the proper stowage of your equipment is completed. If you can you can arrive earlier than two hours before the time you plan to depart. This is especially crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This lets you check in early and provides plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you leave, take a picture of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your device is damaged during your flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for any damages from the airline. You should also think about bringing a seat cushion with you, so that the flight is as comfortable as it can be for you. Using a seat cushion is particularly important when you travel for longer than an hour, because it will reduce pressure on your skin and 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. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is possible with the right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Speak to an airline representative before booking electric wheelchair wheels your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best method to check in your chair, whether it is at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour before your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it's safely stowed for your journey.
Based on the power chair you have It may be necessary to disassemble the chair prior to it is transported. In this case it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to assist the airline employees who handle your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. It is also recommended to remove any removable accessories and ensure that all controls work before you depart for the airport.
Once you are at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the plane. The airlines are prohibited from charging an additional fee to stow assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for passengers with disabilities as it allows them to save money.
A representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that will fit on the aircraft aisle when the plane lands. Then, you website will be able to board the plane, and your power wheelchair will be returned to you as read more close to the airplane door as you can in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with the right planning and following the rules, you can enjoy exploring new places. It is essential to keep in mind that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it offers.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for people who suffer from mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stress-inducing for you, but it's essential to follow the policies of your airline regarding the transportation and storage of your chair on board the airplane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact the airline prior to your departure to ask about their policy and to get any questions answered.
Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair for your flight, as provided you prepare it correctly to travel. Some airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will check here need a doctor's letter to allow you to travel with your electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also demand that you take down the battery powered portion of your chair and place it into an enclosure that is protected.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your departure. Bring any documentation you may require to the airport, like your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.
When you arrive at the ticket counter or gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Provide the type of wheelchair you have and any other accessories you may require, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be placing your wheelchair in a specific cart or examining it for stowage. If you're moving 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's stored in the cargo compartment along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of your scooter or wheelchair, the same way they would with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, be sure to capture a photo before you leave website the airport and immediately notify the airline.