What Is Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair And How To Use It?
What Is Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair And How To Use It?
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to consider. The staff at the airport and the airline will inquire about the dimensions of your chair, battery type, and how to use it.
Make sure you have this information ready prior to your trip to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that comply with air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and stowed safely on airplanes. They typically come with a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stowed underneath the plane as checked luggage. In addition they'll be able to maneuver on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or roads that are muddy. They could also have a patent-pending power drive system that allows them to navigate in tight spaces, or lifts.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the boarding gates. It is important to call the airline ahead of time to make sure they are aware of any special needs and confirm that they can meet them. Some airlines require you to be at least an hour before the departure time you have scheduled This is crucial in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes for the stowage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is limited and operates 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 designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour before your flight, to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful information regarding your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to provide a safe and convenient method of travel. These chairs are designed to fold, and they 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 assist you in planning your itinerary and give you the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair for safety purposes and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that the battery is safely stowed in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you use, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following information such as your name address, number and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment in case it should become lost or mishandled during your trip. You may also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which aid you in staying in your wheelchair when you transfer with airline and airport personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure time to ensure that your equipment mobility wheelchairs electric is in good storage. Being earlier than that is even better particularly during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early get more info and provides plenty of time for the airline representative 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 on the flight. This will give you leverage in obtaining compensation for the damages from the airline. Consider bringing along cushions to make the trip as comfortable as you possibly can. Using a seat cushion is essential for flights that last more than an hour, since this will minimize the pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, getting on a plane could be an overwhelming experience. Air travel with a power chair is feasible with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Contact an airline representative before making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the right direction, regardless of whether you prefer to make your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it is recommended that you arrive at least an hour before your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to check your equipment and make sure that it is safely stored to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the type of power chair you have It could be necessary to disassemble it for transport. In this instance it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the table to aid airline employees who handle your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any detachable items prior to you go to the airport, and to make sure all controls are in working order.
When 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 to store assistive devices, such as power chairs. This is an excellent benefit for passengers with disabilities, since it allows them to save money.
After the plane has landed, an airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft. You will then be able to board the plane, and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as you can, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
A trip with an electric chair can be daunting, but with careful planning and adhering to the guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new locations with ease. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you're uncomfortable in your chair, you'll not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that here traveling affords.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. If you're using mobility scooters or wheelchairs can make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it's crucial to adhere to the airline's guidelines for taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact your airline before your trip to inquire about their policies and ask any questions.
Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair for your flight, so long as you here prepare it for travel. Certain airlines may require you to charge the batteries prior to boarding and some will require you to have a doctor's click here note on file before they will allow you to fly with your power chair. Some airlines may also demand that you take down the battery powered portion of your chair, and then place it in an enclosure that is protected.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours before your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your departure. It's recommended to bring any documentation, including your owner manual and any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will speed up the check-in and prevent confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
If you are at the airline ticket counter or gate, make sure to communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Explain your wheelchair and any other accessories you might require like seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair for stowage or if it will be transferred to the plane using an appropriate cart. If you're going to transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, try to book a direct flight, which will minimize the amount of times 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 luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair, the same way they would with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, you must take a photograph before you leave the airport and immediately inform the airline.