The Reasons Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Will Be Everyone's Desire In 2023
The Reasons Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Will Be Everyone's Desire In 2023
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to consider. The airport staff and the airline will inquire about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to handle it.
Make sure you have these details ready prior to your trip to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with air travel regulations.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be carried and safely stowed on airplanes. The FAA will approve them for air travel, and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. They can also navigate on rough surfaces such as deceleration stripes, gravel, brick or muddy road. They could also be equipped with a patented power drive system 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 up to the boarding gates. However, it is essential to contact them prior to time to ensure that they are aware of your needs and confirm that they can meet your needs. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour before the time of departure which is crucial during busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes for the stowage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited and operated on an initial-come first-serve basis. They also require that any extra batteries be checked as part of the scooter or wheelchair since federal regulations require that they are disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a secure design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask to check-in at least an hour before your flight to ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful information regarding your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed for safe and convenient travel. They can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline guidelines 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. They can assist in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide you with instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines require you to take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that the battery is safely stowed in a upright position.
Depending on the airline you fly with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, address, your phone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment in case it is lost or mishandled during your trip. You may also consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that help you remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airline and airport personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at at least two hours prior to the departure time you have scheduled to ensure the proper storage of your equipment is done. If possible, arrive at least two hours earlier than your scheduled departure time. This is especially important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This allows you to check in early and allows the representative of the airline plenty of time to help you stow your chair.
Before you leave and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your device is damaged during your flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for damages from the airline. You should consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to make the trip as comfortable as possible. Cushions for seats are essential 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 aircraft with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline can be daunting. But, with the right preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, traveling with your power chair is possible.
Before you book your flight, speak to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best way to check-in your chair, whether it is at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour prior to your flight is suggested. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and ensure that it will be stowed safely for your journey.
Based on the model of power chair you own, it may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. In this instance it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the go to help airline personnel handling your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair, such as the owner's manual as well as warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any detachable accessories before you leave for the airport and also to ensure that all controls are in working order.
Once you arrive at an airport the electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and then stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging you a fee to stow assistive devices, like power wheelchairs. This is a great benefit for those who have disabilities, as it allows them to avoid unnecessary costs.
After the plane has landed at the airport, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your powered wheelchair to one that is able to slide down the aircraft aisle. You will then be able to board the plane, and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as you can or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with the right planning and following the rules, you can enjoy exploring new places. It is important to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair, you won't be able to travel with the freedom it affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be extremely stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, however it is important to follow your airline's policies for transporting more info and stowing your chair on board the airplane. Contact the airline ahead of time to find out their policy regarding power chairs and to ask any questions.
Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair for your flight, so that you prepare it to travel. Some airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will need a doctor's letter to allow you to travel with your electric wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require that you take down the battery-powered portion of your chair and place it in an enclosure that is protected.
Once you're at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours before your scheduled departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, like your owner manual and any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will make it easier for the process of checking in and will make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the counter for tickets or gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Provide the type of wheelchair you have and any accessories you require, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be placing your wheelchair in a special cart or examining it for stowage. If you're going to transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, make sure to book a direct flight, which will minimize the number of times your equipment will be transferred between locations.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane it will be stored in the cargo compartment, just like checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra to store your wheelchair or scooter, like they do with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, you must take a photograph prior to leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.