The Little-Known Benefits Of Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
The Little-Known Benefits Of Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are many things to take into consideration. The airport staff and the airline will inquire about your chair, its dimensions and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have these details prepared before you travel to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "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 can be safely transported and stored on planes. They typically come with an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. Additionally, they will be able to navigate on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or muddy roads. They may also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending which allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the boarding gates. It is however important to contact them prior to time to ensure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet those needs. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour before your scheduled departure which is crucial during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage and storage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited and on a first-come, first-serve basis. They also require that any additional batteries be checked as part of the scooter or wheelchair, as 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-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask that you check in an hour prior to your flight so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions and other helpful information about your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to offer the most secure and comfortable way to travel. These power chairs are made to fold and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can help you plan your travel plans and provide you with the latest information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide you with assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair for safety purposes and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed, and that it is stowed upright.
Depending on the airline you fly with depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, your address, your number, and your wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it is stolen or mishandled during your journey. You may also think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that allow you to remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airport and airline personnel.
You should 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. Being earlier than that is even better if possible particularly during busy times of the year or during heavy duty electric wheelchairs rush hour. This allows you to check in early and gives the airline representative ample time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair before you travel. This serves as proof if your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you get more info leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for any damages. You should also consider bringing cushions for your seats, so that check here the flight is as relaxing as possible for you. Seat cushions are especially important when you travel for more than an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, boarding a plane can be a daunting prospect. Air travel with a power chair is possible with the right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Before booking your flight, speak to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They'll be able to help you navigate in the right direction, whether you prefer to make your seat at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour prior to your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure it is safely stored for your trip.
Depending on the type of power chair you own It could be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. In this case it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly hand to assist the airline personnel handling your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair, including the owner's manual or warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any electric wheelchair chair removable items and check whether all controls function before you leave for the airport.
Once you are at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the plane. The airlines are not allowed to charging you an additional cost to store assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is a great feature for passengers with disabilities, since it allows them to avoid costly expenses.
When the plane lands at the airport, an heavy duty electric wheelchair uk airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that is able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft. You will then be able to get off the plane and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
Traveling with an electric chair can be daunting, but with careful planning and adhering to the guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the thrill of exploring new destinations without difficulty. The most important thing to remember is that if not comfortable moving around in your chair, you'll never be able to enjoy the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for people who have mobility issues. If you're traveling with a wheelchair or a scooter, it can make your trip more enjoyable. However, it's crucial to adhere to the airline's guidelines for the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. Contact the airline ahead of time to learn about their policies on power chairs and to ask any questions.
Most airlines allow passengers to bring an electric wheelchair on your trip as you've prepared it for travel. Some airlines might require you to charge the batteries before boarding, and some will require you to have a doctor's note on file before they will allow you to fly with your motorized chair. Certain airlines may also require you to disassemble the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair and place it inside a protective case.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before flight. Bring any documents you require to the airport, including your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will help speed up the check-in process and can help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
On arrival at the ticket counter or gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Be sure to describe the kind of wheelchair you own and any necessary accessories, such as cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or the possibility of transferring it to the aircraft using an adapted cart. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book an direct flight to cut down on the number times your equipment is moved between locations.
Once your wheelchair is in the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment along with your checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for storing a wheelchair or scooter. Take a picture of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.