How To Tell If You're In The Right Place For Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
How To Tell If You're In The Right Place For Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are several things to consider. The staff at the airport and the airline will inquire about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to handle it.
Make sure you have all this information at hand before you travel to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stowed on planes. The FAA can approve them for use on flights, and they can be kept in the airplane as checked baggage. They will also be able maneuver on rough surfaces like deceleration stripes, gravel, roads that are muddy or brick. They could also be fitted with a patented drive system that permits them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter to the boarding gate. It is however important to contact them prior to time to make sure they are aware of your needs and confirm that they can meet those requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive one hour prior to your scheduled departure time which is essential in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes that allows for the stowage and storage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is not large enough and it's first come, first served. Federal regulations also require that all batteries added to the system be checked by the scooter or wheelchair. They must be disconnected unless they are specifically designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also request to check-in at least an hour prior to your flight time to ensure proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent information regarding your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to provide the most secure and comfortable way to travel. These power chairs can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines for battery size handling, stowage, and handling. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can help you plan your travel itinerary and provide you with the latest information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require you to take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that the battery is secured in a upright position.
Depending on the airline you use or airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following information including your name address, number and model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment in case it should become lost or mishandled during your trip. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to help you remain in your chair during transfers with airport personnel and airline personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that proper stowage of your equipment is done. If possible be there at least two hours earlier than the time you plan to depart. This is especially crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This lets you check in earlier and gives plenty of time for the airline representative to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you travel to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your wheelchair is damaged on the flight. This will help you in obtaining compensation for any damages from the airline. You should also consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat, so that the flight is as relaxing as possible for you. A seat cushion is essential when you travel for longer than an hour, because this will minimize the pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline can be daunting. But, with the right preparation and adhering to the rules and here regulations, air travel using bariatric electric wheelchair your electric chair is feasible.
Talk to an airline representative prior to booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They'll be able to help you navigate in the right direction, whether you prefer to electric mobility chairs for adults get your seat at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, it is advised to arrive at least an hour before your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure that it is properly and properly stored to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the type of chair you own It may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. In this case it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the table to aid airline personnel who will handle your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair, like the owner's manual as well as warranty information. Also, remove any accessories that are removable and ensure that all controls work before you leave for the airport.
Once you are at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the plane. The airlines are prohibited from charging an additional fee to stow assistive devices like power wheelchairs. This is a great benefit for passengers who have disabilities, as it helps them avoid unnecessary costs.
An airline employee can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which can be able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft once the plane lands. You can then disembark and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the closest possible location to the door of the aircraft or at the jetbridge or the gate.
The idea of using 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 destinations without difficulty. It is important to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to enjoy the freedom it offers.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for passengers with mobility issues. If you're using mobility scooters or wheelchairs can make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's guidelines for bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline in advance to inquire about their policy on power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Most airlines allow passengers to bring an electric wheelchair on your flight, so you've prepared it for travel. Some airlines may require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and some may require you to have a doctor's note in order to allow you to fly using your electric chair. Some airlines may also demand that you disassemble the battery powered portion of your chair, and place it into a protective case.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before flight. Bring any documentation you might require to the airport, like your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will speed up check-in process and avoid confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the airline's ticket counter or gate, make sure to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Discuss your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you may require for example, seats power chairs for disabled 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 going to transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, you should try to book a direct flight, which will reduce the number of times that your equipment will be transferred between different locations.
After 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 airlines from charging you extra click here for storing your wheelchair or scooter, just as they would with your luggage. Take a picture of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.