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 you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are many things to consider. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you a lot of questions about your chair's 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 your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with air travel regulations.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are able to be safely transported and stowed on planes. They usually have a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stowed underneath the plane as checked luggage. They can also maneuver on rough surfaces such as deceleration stripes, gravel, brick or muddy road. They could also have a patent-pending power drive system that allows them to navigate in tight spaces, or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate for boarding. However, it is essential to contact them ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of your needs and confirm that they can meet those requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive one hour prior to your departure time which is essential in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is limited and is first come first served. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected as part of the wheelchair or scooter, as federal regulations require that they be disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with an effective design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to taking electric wheelchairs or scooters aboard their flights. They also ask that you check in one hour before your flight, so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent details about your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to offer the most secure and comfortable method of travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in planning your travel itinerary and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety and then place it into a carryon bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed and that it is safely placed 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, address, your phone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment if it should become lost or damaged during your travels. You may want to buy aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will allow you to remain in your seat during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
You should arrive at at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that the proper stowage of your equipment is done. If possible you can arrive at least two hours earlier than your scheduled departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This lets you check in earlier and gives ample time for the airline representative to assist you in stowing your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair prior to travel. This serves as proof if your device gets damaged during the flight. This will help you to seek compensation for damages from the airline. You should also think about bringing an extra cushion for your seat to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as possible for you. A seat cushion is especially important when you travel for longer than an hour, because it reduces the pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane could be an overwhelming experience. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is feasible with proper preparation and adhering to small electric wheel chair rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, speak to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best way to check-in your chair whether at the ticket counter or the gate. In either case, arriving one hour before your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure it is safely stored to be ready for your trip.
Based on the power chair you have It could be necessary to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it's beneficial to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions in order to aid the staff of the airline handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty get more info information. You should also remove any removable accessories and make sure whether all controls function before you depart for the airport.
Once you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the airplane. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you an additional fee to stow assistive devices, such as electric wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for people who have disabilities, as they can save money.
An airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that will fit on the aisle of the aircraft when compact electric wheelchair the plane lands. Then, you can disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the closest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
Traveling with an electric wheelchair may seem daunting, but with careful planning and adhering to the guidelines, it is possible to experience the joy of exploring new destinations easily. The most important thing to remember is that if you are not comfortable moving around in your chair, you will never take advantage of the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for people with mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stress-inducing for you, but it is important to follow the guidelines of your airline for bringing and stowing your chair on board the airplane. Contact the airline ahead of time to find out their policy on power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring an electric chair on your flight, as long as you prepare it correctly for travel. Certain airlines might require you to recharge the batteries prior to boarding and some will require you to have a doctor's note in order to allow you to fly using your power chair. Some airlines may also demand that you remove the battery-powered portion of your chair, and then place it in 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 electric mobility chairs for adults wheelchair prior to your flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, like your owner's manual or instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid to the airport. This will speed up check-in process and help avoid confusion here about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
Upon arriving at the counter for tickets or at the gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Provide the kind of wheelchair you own and any other accessories you may require like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be storing your wheelchair in a specific cart or checking it for stowage. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book an express flight to reduce the number times your equipment is moved between places.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo area along with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment is damaged, be sure to take a photograph before you leave the airport and immediately notify the airline.