What Are The Myths And Facts Behind Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
What Are The Myths And Facts Behind Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are a few aspects to be considered. The staff at the airport and airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to use it.
Make sure you have this information at hand before you leave for the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that comply with air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and stowed securely on airplanes. They usually have an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stowed underneath the plane as checked baggage. Additionally, they will be able to maneuver on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or roads that are muddy. They can also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending that permits them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter until the gate to board. It is however important to contact them prior to time to ensure that they are aware of your needs and to confirm that they are able to meet those requirements. Some airlines require you to arrive one hour prior to your departure time, which is important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. This space is limited and operated on the basis of first-come-first-serve. The federal regulations also require that any additional batteries be checked with the scooter or wheelchair. They must be disconnected unless they are specifically designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to you bring electric wheelchairs or scooters aboard their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour prior to your flight time so that they can ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather assembly/disassembly information and other helpful information about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to provide a safe and convenient method of travel. These chairs are designed to fold up and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling, and storage. If you plan to fly with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can help you plan your travel plans and provide you with the latest information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Some airlines ask that you take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is securely tucked away in an upright position.
Depending on your airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following details including your name address, address, phone number and model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment in case it should become lost or mishandled during your trip. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will allow you to remain in your chair during transfers with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport at two hours before the time of departure to ensure the proper storage of your equipment is done. Being earlier than that is even better if possible especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This lets you check in early and provides ample time for the representative of the airline to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you travel and read more leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for damages. You should consider bringing a seat cushion to make the flight as comfortable as you can. Cushions for seats are essential for flights that last more than an hour. They can reduce pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those who travel with an airline approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane is an overwhelming experience. Traveling with a power chair is feasible with right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Speak to an airline representative before making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best way to check into your seat whether at the ticket counter or the gate. In either case, arriving one hour prior to your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it's safely stored to be ready for your trip.
Based on the power chair you have It could be necessary to disassemble it prior to it is transported. In this case it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly more info the go to help airline personnel who will handle your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any removable items and check that all controls work before leaving for the airport.
Once you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in read more the cargo hold of the aircraft. The airlines are not allowed to charging an additional fee to stow assistive devices like electric wheelchairs. This is a great benefit for passengers with disabilities since they can avoid costly expenses.
Once the plane is in the air at the airport, an airline employee will be able to transfer you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to fit down the aircraft aisle. You will then be able to disembark, and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as you can in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with right planning and following the rules, you can enjoy exploring new destinations. It is essential to keep in mind that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair, you won't be able to travel with the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for people with mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stress-inducing for you, but it's important to adhere to the policies of your airline regarding transporting and stowing your chair on the airplane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact the airline prior to your departure to inquire about their policies and ask any questions.
Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your trip as provided it's prepared for travel. Certain airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will need a doctor's letter prior to allowing you to fly with your power wheelchair. Some airlines will also require you to disassemble the battery-powered part of your wheelchair and place it in a protective case.
Get to the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before flight. Bring any documentation you may require to the airport, like your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in and prevent confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the counter for tickets or gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Explain your wheelchair and any other accessories you may need for example, seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or whether it will be transported to the aircraft using a specialized cart. If you're taking a transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, try to take a direct flight click here which will minimize the number of times electric motor wheel chair that your equipment will be moved between locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo compartment along with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you extra to store your wheelchair or scooter, like they do with your luggage. Take a picture of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.