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
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to consider. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you numerous questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have these details ready prior to your trip to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with the air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and safely stowed on airplanes. The FAA can approve them for air travel, and they can be stowed under the plane as checked baggage. They will also be able maneuver on rough surfaces such as deceleration stripes, gravel, bricks or muddy roads. They could also be fitted with a drive system that is patent-pending that allows them to maneuver 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. It is important to contact the airline prior to your departure to ensure that they are aware of any special needs and to confirm that they can meet the requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive one hour prior to your scheduled departure time, which is important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is limited, and it's first come first served. The federal regulations also demand that any additional batteries be inspected by a scooter or wheelchair. They must be removed unless they are designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require that you check in one hour before 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 representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions as well as other useful information regarding your mobility or power chair. scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are made for comfortable and safe travel. These power chairs can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline standards for battery size handling, stowage, and handling. If you plan to travel with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist you in planning your trip and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair for safety purposes and place it into a carryon bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals aren't exposed, and it is placed upright.
Based on your airline depending on your airline, you might be required to label your wheelchair with the following information including your name, address, phone number, and model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment if it should become lost or damaged during your trip. You may also consider purchasing aftermarket slings like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will help you remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. If you can 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 allows you to check-in early and gives the representative of the airline plenty of time to help you stow your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair prior to traveling. This can be used as proof in the event that your device gets damaged during the flight. This will help you in pursuing compensation for damages from the airline. Consider bringing along cushions to make the flight as comfortable as you possibly can. Cushions for seats are essential when you travel for more than an hour. They will reduce pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting click here on a plane is an overwhelming experience. However, with the proper preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, flying with a power chair is possible.
Talk to an airline representative before making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best way to check in your chair, whether it is at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour before your flight is recommended. This allows the airline plenty of time to inspect your equipment and make sure that it will be safely towed to be ready for your trip.
Based on the power chair you have It could be necessary for you to disassemble it prior to transportation. If this is the case, it's beneficial to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to help the airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also recommended to remove any accessories that are removable and make sure that all controls work before leaving for the airport.
Once you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. Airlines are not permitted to charge you extra for the stowing of assistive devices such as power chairs. This is a huge benefit for those who have disabilities, as it allows them to save money.
A representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that will fit on the aircraft aisle when the plane arrives. Then, you will be able to board the plane, and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as you can or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric wheelchair may seem intimidating, but with proper planning and adhering to guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new places without difficulty. The most important thing to remember is that if you are uncomfortable in your chair, you'll not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that traveling provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be extremely stressful for people with mobility issues. If you have mobility scooters or wheelchairs could make your experience more enjoyable. However, it's essential to follow the airline's guidelines for taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact the airline prior to your departure to inquire about their policy and to get any questions answered.
Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, as long as you prepare it properly to travel. Certain airlines may require you to discharge the batteries before boarding, and some may require you to have a doctor's note in order to allow you to fly using your motorized chair. Some airlines may also require you to remove the battery-powered component of your wheelchair and place it in a protective case.
Get to the airport at least two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your departure. Bring any documents you need to the airport, like your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will speed up check-in process and avoid confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you reach the counter for tickets to airline or gate, make sure to communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Discuss your wheelchair and any accessories you may need for example, sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair for stowage or the possibility of transferring it to the plane using a specialized cart. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book a direct flight to minimize the amount of times your equipment is moved between different locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment along with your checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for storing your wheelchair or scooter, like they do with your luggage. Take a picture of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.