The Unknown Benefits Of Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric WheelchairThere are many aspects to take into consideration when traveling with a powered chair. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you numerous questions regarding your chair's dimensions, battery type and how to handle it.
Make sure you have all of this information in your possession prior to you travel to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that comply with the requirements for air travel.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and stowed securely on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for air travel and they can be kept under the plane as checked baggage. They will also be able navigate on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes bricks or muddy roads. They can also be equipped with a patented drive system that allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter until the gate for boarding. It is essential to contact the airline prior to your departure to make sure they are aware of any specific needs and confirm that they will be able to accommodate these requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive at least an hour prior to the time of departure which is crucial in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is limited and it's first come, first serve. The federal regulations also demand that all extra batteries be checked with the scooter or wheelchair. They must be removed unless they are specifically designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask that you check in one hour before your flight, to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful information about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to provide an efficient and safe method of travel. These chairs are designed to fold up and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling, and storage. If you're planning to travel with the airline of your preference, you should contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist in planning your trip and give you the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety purposes and place it into a carryon bag. This is to ensure that the battery 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 telephone number, and the wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event that it is stolen or damaged during your travels. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will help you remain in your seat during transfers with airport personnel 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 you can be there at least two hours earlier than your departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This lets you check-in early and gives the representative of the airline plenty of time to help you stow your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair prior to travel. This serves as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will help you in pursuing compensation for any damages from the airline. Consider bringing along an extra cushion for your seat to make the trip as comfortable as you can. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights lasting over an hour. They will reduce pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.
Check-In
For those who travel with an airline approved electric wheelchair, getting on a plane could be an intimidating experience. However, with the proper preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, traveling using your electric chair is attainable.
Before you book your flight, speak to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best method to check into your seat whether at the ticket counter 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 stowed for your journey.
Depending on the kind of power chair you own It may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. In this instance it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the table to aid airline personnel handling your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair, including the owner's manual and warranty information. You should also remove any accessories that are removable and ensure that all controls work before you depart for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the plane. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra for stowing assistive devices such as electric chairs. This is a wonderful benefit for passengers with disabilities, since it allows them to avoid costly expenses.
A representative from the airline will be able to transfer get more info you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which can be able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft once the plane read more arrives. Then, you will be able to board the plane, and your power wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as you can in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
A trip with an electric chair can be daunting, but with get more info the right planning and adhering to guidelines, it is possible to experience the joy of exploring new destinations without difficulty. The most important thing to remember is that if you are uncomfortable in your chair, you will never be able to enjoy the freedom that travel affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be very stressful for those who have mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stress-inducing for you, but it's essential to follow the policies of your airline regarding transporting and stowing your chair on the airplane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your travels to ask about their policy and to get any questions answered.
Most airlines will allow passengers to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight, so you've prepared it for travel. Certain airlines might require you to charge the batteries prior to boarding and some will need to have a doctor's recommendation on file prior to being able to allow you to fly using your electric chair. Certain airlines may also require that you take down the battery-powered part of your chair, and place it into an enclosure that is protected.
When you arrive at the airport, make sure you arrive at least two hours before your departure time so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, including your owner's manual or assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and avoid confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
Upon arriving at the counter for tickets or at the gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Explain your wheelchair and any accessories you might require for example, seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage or if it will be transferred to the aircraft with an appropriate cart. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book a direct flight to minimize the number times your equipment is moved between different locations.
Once your wheelchair is in the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment, just like checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you extra to store your scooter or wheelchair just as they would with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, make sure you capture a photo before leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.