What Do You Do To Know If You're Prepared To Go After Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
What Do You Do To Know If You're Prepared To Go After Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few things you should consider when traveling with powered chairs. The airport staff and at the airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to use it.
Make sure you have all of this information in your possession prior to you leave for the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with the air travel regulations.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are able to be safely transported and stowed on planes. They typically come with non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. In addition, they will be able to move on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or muddy roads. They could also be equipped with a patent-pending power drive system that enables them to maneuver in tight spaces or lifts.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the gates for boarding. However, it is important to contact them ahead of time to ensure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm that they are able to meet those requirements. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour before your scheduled departure, which is especially important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes that allows for the stowage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is limited and operated on a first-come, first-serve basis. Federal regulations also require that any additional batteries be inspected by a scooter or wheelchair. They must be disconnected unless they are specifically designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also request that you check in an hour before your flight, to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other information regarding your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure safe and convenient travel. These chairs are designed to fold and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can assist you in planning your trip and give you the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines ask that you remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety and put it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is securely tucked away in an upright position.
Depending on your airline depending on your airline, you might be required to label your wheelchair with the following details: your name, address, phone number, and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it is stolen or damaged during your travels. You may also want to look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will aid you in staying in your wheelchair when you transfer with airline and airport personnel.
You should arrive at at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure click here the proper stowage of your equipment is completed. Being earlier than that is even better if possible, especially during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This lets you check-in early and allows the representative of the airline plenty of time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you travel, take a picture of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your device is damaged during your flight. This will give you leverage to pursue compensation from the airline in case of check here damages. You should also consider bringing cushions for your seats so that your journey is as comfortable as possible for you. A seat cushion is essential for flights that last more than an hour, since it reduces pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those who travel with an airline approved electric wheelchair, getting on a plane could be an overwhelming experience. Traveling with a power chair is possible with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Talk to an airline representative prior to making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best method to check into your seat whether at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour before your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure that it's safely stowed for your trip.
Depending on the model of your power chair, it may be necessary to disassemble the chair prior to transport. In this instance it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the go to help airline personnel who will handle your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any detachable accessories before you leave for the airport, and to make sure all of the controls are in working order.
When you arrive at an airport the electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging you an additional fee to stow assistive devices like electric wheelchairs. This is a great benefit for passengers with disabilities as it helps them avoid unnecessary costs.
A representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which can fit down the aisle website of the aircraft when the plane arrives. Then, you will be able to disembark, and your power wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric wheelchair can seem intimidating, but with proper planning and adhering to guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the thrill of exploring new locations without difficulty. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you're uncomfortable in your chair, you'll never take advantage of the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, but it is important to follow the guidelines of your airline for transporting and stowing your chair on the airplane. Contact the airline prior to departure to inquire about their policy on power chairs and to ask any questions.
Most airlines allow you to bring an electric wheelchair on your flight, so provided it's prepared for travel. Some airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to boarding, here and others will need a doctor's letter to allow you to travel with your electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also demand that you remove the battery powered portion of your wheelchair, and place it in an enclosure that is protected.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at least two hours before the time of departure to ensure that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your departure. It's important to bring any documentation, including your owner manual and any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility click here aid to the airport. This will make it easier for 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 sure to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any accessories you may need like seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or whether it will be transported to the plane using an appropriate cart. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book an express flight to reduce the number times your equipment is moved between locations.
Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo area along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra fees for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. If your equipment is damaged, you must take a picture of it before you leave the airport and immediately notify the airline.