The Reason Why Adding A Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair To Your Life Will Make All The The Difference
The Reason Why Adding A Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair To Your Life Will Make All The The Difference
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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are many things to take into consideration. The staff at the airport and the airline will inquire about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to use it.
Be sure to have all this information in your possession prior to you leave for the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be carried and safely stowed on airplanes. The FAA will allow them to be used for travel on planes, and they can be kept under the plane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to move on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes bricks or muddy roads. They may also have an exclusive power drive system that enables them to navigate in tight spaces, or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter to the gate to board. It is important to contact the airline in advance to make sure 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 the departure time you have scheduled which is essential in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes that allows for the stowage of a wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is not large enough and it's first come, first served. The federal regulations also require that any additional batteries be checked with the scooter or wheelchair. They must be disconnected unless they are designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also request to check-in one hour prior to your flight time so that they can ensure proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions as well as other useful information about your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are made for secure and comfortable 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 ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can help you plan your itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety. You can then put it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is safely stowed in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you travel with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, address, your number, and your wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event that it gets lost or is mishandled on your trip. You may want to buy aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will help you remain in your chair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
You should always arrive at at two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure the proper stowage of your equipment is done. If you are able be there at least two hours earlier than your departure time. This is particularly crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This allows you to check in early and provides ample time for the airline representative to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you leave to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your device is damaged during your flight. This will give you the ability to seek compensation from the airline in case of damages. You should consider bringing cushions to make the flight as comfortable as possible. Seat cushions are especially important when you travel for more than an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline can be daunting. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is feasible with right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, speak to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They'll be able to help you navigate in the right direction, whether you prefer to make your seat at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it's recommended that you arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure it is safely and properly stored to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the type of power chair you own, it may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. In this case it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the go to help airline employees who handle your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any detachable items prior to you travel to the airport, and to make sure all the controls are in working order.
Once you are at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the plane. The airlines are prohibited from charging an additional cost to store assistive devices like power wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for passengers with disabilities, as it helps them avoid costly expenses.
When the plane lands in the air, a representative from the airline will be in a position to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to slide into the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you will be able to board the plane, and your power wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as is possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
A trip with an electric chair can be daunting, but with the right planning and adhering to the guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new destinations with ease. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you are not comfortable moving around in your chair, you will never take advantage of the freedom that travel affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for people with mobility problems. If you're traveling with mobility scooters or wheelchairs, it can make your experience more enjoyable. However, it's essential to follow the airline's guidelines regarding taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact your airline prior to your travels to inquire about their policies and get any questions answered.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, as that you prepare it to travel. Some airlines might require you to charge the batteries prior to boarding and some may require you to have a medical note on file prior to being able to let you fly with your power chair. Some airlines may also require that you remove the battery powered portion of your chair, and place it into a case that is safe.
When you arrive at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours prior to the time of departure to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's also transportable electric wheelchair a good idea to bring any documentation, including 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 regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
If you are at the ticket counter of your airline or gate, make sure you explain your mobility needs clearly. Provide a description of your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you might require like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be storing your wheelchair in a special cart or checking it for stowage. If you're transferring to the plane using your electric wheelchair, make sure to make a direct flight which will reduce the number of times your equipment is moved between 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 extra for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. If your equipment arrives damaged, be sure to take a picture of it before leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.