What Is Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair And Why Is Everyone Talking About It?
What Is Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair And Why Is Everyone Talking About It?
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are many things to consider. Airport and airline staff will ask you a lot of questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Be sure to have these details in hand prior to you travel to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that comply with the air travel regulations.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines can be safely transported and stowed on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for air travel, and they can be kept under the plane as checked baggage. They can also navigate on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration stripes, bricks or muddy roads. They may also be equipped with a patented drive system that allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter to the gate for boarding. However, it is important to contact them prior to time to ensure that they are aware of your requirements and to confirm that they are able to meet those needs. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour before the time of departure This is particularly important during peak 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 is first come first served. They also require that any additional batteries be checked as part of the wheelchair or scooter, as federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless the chair is equipped with a safe design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to taking electric wheelchairs or scooters aboard their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour before your flight, to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions and other helpful information regarding your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed for comfortable and safe travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold up and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling, and stowage. If you plan to travel with the airline of your 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 itinerary and provide you with the latest information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide you with assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is safely stowed in a upright position.
Depending on the airline you use depending on your airline, you might be required to label your wheelchair with the following details: your name address, address, phone number, and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment if it gets lost or damaged during your trip. You may also want to think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will aid you in staying in your wheelchair while you travel with airline and airport personnel.
You should arrive at the airport 2 hours before your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. If you are able, arrive earlier than two hours before the time you plan to depart. This is especially important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This allows you to check in early and gives the airline representative plenty of time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair prior to travel. This serves as proof if your device is damaged on the flight. This will help you to seek compensation for the damages from the airline. You should also think about bringing a seat cushion with you so that your journey is as comfortable as it can be for you. Cushions for seats are essential when you travel for more than an hour. They reduce the pressure on your skin making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be a daunting task. But, with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, traveling using your electric chair is feasible.
Before booking your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best method to check into your seat whether at the counter for tickets or the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour before your flight is recommended. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and ensure it will be safely towed for your trip.
Depending on the type of chair you own, it may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. If this is the case, it is helpful to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions available to assist airline employees handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. Also, remove any removable accessories and make sure that all controls work before leaving for the airport.
Once you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and then stowed. Airlines 25 stone capacity electric wheelchair are not permitted to charge you extra to store assistive devices, like electric chairs. This is an excellent benefit for passengers who have disabilities, as they can save money.
A representative from the airline can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which can be able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft once the plane lands. Then, you will be able to get off the plane and your wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as possible in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
It might be difficult to travel in an electric chair, but with right planning and following guidelines you can have fun exploring new locations. It is important to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for people with mobility problems. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stress-inducing for you, but it's important to adhere to the policies of your airline regarding the transportation and storage of your chair on board the airplane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your departure to ask about their policy and ask any questions.
Most airlines will allow you to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your trip as provided it's prepared for travel. Some airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a doctor's letter to allow you to fly with your powered wheelchair. Some airlines may also require that you take down the battery-powered part of your chair and place it into a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, make sure you arrive at least two hours prior to your departure time to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documentation you may require to the airport, such as your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will help speed up the check-in process and can make sure that there is no confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.
When you arrive at the counter for tickets to airline or at the gate, be sure to communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any other accessories you may require for example, sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether they will be placing your wheelchair in a specific cart or checking it for stowage. If you're taking a transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, try to take a direct flight which will cut down on the amount of times your equipment is moved between various locations.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment as checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for storing a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment arrives damaged, be sure to capture a photo before you leave the airport and immediately notify the airline.