10 Healthy Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Habits
10 Healthy Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Habits
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are many things to consider. The airport staff and at the airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have all these details in hand prior to you travel to 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 can 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 baggage. They will also be able navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration stripes brick or muddy road. They could also have a patented power drive system that allows them to move in tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the gates for boarding. However, it is important to contact them prior to time to ensure they are aware of your needs and confirm that they can meet those requirements. Certain airlines require you to be at least an hour before your scheduled departure time which is essential during busy travel periods.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes that allows for the stowage of a mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is not large enough and it's first come, first served. They also require that any extra batteries be checked as part of the wheelchair or scooter, because federal regulations require they must be removed from the device unless it is equipped with an effective design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask that you check in one hour prior to your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent details about your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to offer an efficient and safe way to travel. These power chairs can be folded and are in line with airline standards for battery size and handling, as well as stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These experts can assist you in planning your travel itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety. You can then put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is secured in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you fly with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, address, your phone number, and the wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it is lost or mishandled on your trip. You may also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will allow you to remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
You should arrive at at minimum two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that the proper stowage of your equipment is completed. If possible you can arrive at least two hours earlier than your scheduled departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This lets you check-in early and allows the representative of the airline plenty of time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you travel and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged on the flight. This will give you ability to seek compensation from the airline in case of damages. It is also advisable to bring a seat cushion with you, so that the flight is as comfortable as it can be for you. A seat cushion is especially important when you travel for more than an hour, since it reduces pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, the process of boarding a plane can be an intimidating experience. However, with the proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, flying with your power chair is possible.
Before booking your flight, talk to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best way to check into your seat whether at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour prior to your flight is suggested. This gives the airline ample time to examine your equipment and ensure that it will be safely towed for your journey.
Depending on your power chair It could be necessary for you to disassemble it before transport. If this is the case, it is important to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions in order to aid the airline employees handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any removable items and check that all controls work before you depart for the airport.
Once you arrive at the airport the electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and then stowed. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra fees to store assistive devices, such as power chairs. This is a great benefit for those with disabilities as they can avoid costly expenses.
An airline employee will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that will fit on the aisle of the aircraft once the plane arrives. You will then be able to get off the plane and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as is possible, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric wheelchair may seem daunting, but with careful planning and adhering to the guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new places easily. It is crucial to remember that if you do click here not feel comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to enjoy the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for people who have mobility issues. If you're using a wheelchair or a scooter can make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it's essential to follow the airline's guidelines for bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to inquire about their policy on power chairs, and to ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight, so long as it's properly prepared for travel. Certain airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will need a doctor's letter prior to allowing you to travel with your powered wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require that you take down the battery powered portion of your chair, and then place it in a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documentation you may need to the airport, such as your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will help speed up the process of checking in and will help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
On arrival at the ticket counter or at the gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Explain your wheelchair and any accessories you might require for example, seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be placing your wheelchair in a separate cart or examining it for storage. If you're going to transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, try to book a direct flight, which will minimize the amount of times your equipment is moved between locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo compartment 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. Take a photo of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.