10 Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Tricks Experts Recommend
10 Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Tricks Experts Recommend
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several things you should consider when traveling with a powered chair. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you many questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.
Be sure to have all of this information in your possession prior to you leave for the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that comply with the air travel regulations.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are able to be safely transported and stowed on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for travel on planes, and they can be kept in the airplane as checked baggage. They will also be able move on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration stripes, roads that are muddy or brick. They could also be equipped with a patent-pending power drive system that allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or lifts.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the gates for boarding. It is important to contact the airline in advance to make sure they are aware of any specific needs and confirm that they will be able to accommodate them. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour before your scheduled departure, which is especially important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is limited and is first come, first served. They also require that any additional batteries be checked as part of the scooter or wheelchair, as federal regulations require that they are disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with a safe design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when you bring an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require to check-in at least an hour prior to your flight time to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful details about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to offer the most secure and comfortable method of travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and stowage. If you're planning to travel with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These experts can assist you in planning your travel itinerary and provide you with the latest details regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines will require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair 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 straight position.
Depending on the airline you fly with depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, address, your telephone number, and the wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it is lost or mishandled during your journey. You may also want to look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which allow you to remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airline and airport personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at at two hours before the departure time you have scheduled to ensure that the proper storage of your equipment is accomplished. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better, especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and gives the airline representative plenty of time to help you stow your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair prior to travel. This can be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage in pursuing compensation for damages from the airline. You should also consider bringing a seat cushion with you to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as it can be for you. Using a seat cushion is especially important when you travel for longer than an hour, because this will minimize the pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, getting on a plane is an intimidating experience. Traveling with a power chair is achievable with right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, talk to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can help you navigate in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to check-in your seat at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour before your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure it is safely stored for your trip.
Depending on your power chair It may be necessary for you to disassemble it prior to transportation. In this case, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the go to help airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. Also, take off any removable items and ensure that all controls are functioning before leaving for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport the electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and stowed. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you a fee to stow assistive devices like electric wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for passengers who have disabilities, as it helps them save money.
When the plane lands at the airport, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to one that can fit down the aircraft aisle. You will then be able to board the plane, and your power wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as you can, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric chair can be daunting, but with the right planning and adhering to guidelines, it is possible to experience the joy of exploring new destinations with ease. It is essential to keep in mind that if you do not feel comfortable in your electric lightweight wheelchairs chair you will not be able to travel with the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for people with mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stress-inducing for you, but it's important to adhere to the guidelines of your airline for bringing and stowing your chair on board the airplane. Contact the airline in advance to find out their policy regarding power chairs and to ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, as that you prepare it properly to travel. Some airlines require that you discharge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will require a doctor's letter before they will allow you to travel with your power wheelchair. Some airlines may also require you to remove the battery-powered part of your chair and then place it in a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, make sure you arrive at least two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. It's important to bring any documentation, such as the owner's manual as well as any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid, to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and avoid confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
If you are at the counter for tickets to airline or gate, be sure you communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Provide a description of your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you might require for example, seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be keeping your wheelchair in a specific cart or checking it for storage. If you're going to transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, try to take a direct flight which will reduce the number of times your equipment is moved between different locations.
After your wheelchair has been 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 just as they would with your luggage. Take a photo of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.