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
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to consider. The staff at the airport and at the airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information ready before you go to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that comply with air travel regulations.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines can be safely transported and stowed on planes. They usually have an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stored under the plane as checked luggage. In addition they'll be able to maneuver on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or roads that are muddy. They could also be fitted with a drive system that is patent-pending which allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the boarding gates. It is crucial to call the airline ahead of time to ensure they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate these requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour before your scheduled departure time which is essential during busy travel periods.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is limited, and it's first come, first serve. The federal regulations also demand that all batteries added to the system be checked with the wheelchair or scooter. They must be removed unless they are specifically designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask to check-in at least an hour prior to your flight so that they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get assembly/disassembly information and other helpful details about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure safe and convenient travel. These chairs are designed to fold up and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist in planning your trip and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require you to remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals aren't exposed, and it is stored upright.
Depending on your airline depending on your airline, you might be asked to label your wheelchair with the following details: your name address, address, phone number and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it is lost or mishandled during your journey. You may also want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that allow you to remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airline and airport personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to the departure time you have scheduled to ensure that the proper stowage of your equipment is accomplished. If you can, arrive at least two hours earlier than your departure time. This is especially important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This lets you check in earlier and gives ample time for the airline representative to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you travel to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will help you in pursuing compensation for the damages from the airline. Consider bringing along cushions to make the flight as comfortable as you possibly can. Cushions for seats are essential for flights lasting over an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane is an intimidating experience. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is possible with the proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Before booking your flight, talk to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best method to check in your chair whether at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In cheap electric wheelchair any case, arriving at least one hour before your flight is suggested. This gives the airline ample time to inspect your equipment and ensure that it will be safely towed for your journey.
Depending on your power chair, it may be necessary for you to disassemble it before it is transported. If this is the case, it's helpful to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly available to assist airline employees handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. It is also recommended to remove any accessories that are removable and check that all controls are functioning before leaving for the airport.
Once you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the plane. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you an additional fee to stow assistive devices, such as power wheelchairs. This is a great benefit for people with disabilities as they can avoid unnecessary costs.
Once the plane is in the air at the airport, an airline employee will be able to transfer you from your power wheelchair to one that is able to slide down the aircraft aisle. After disembarking, your wheelchair will be returned to you at the closest possible location to the door of the aircraft or at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with right planning and following the rules you can have fun exploring new destinations. It is essential to keep in mind that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to travel with the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for people who have mobility issues. If you're traveling with a wheelchair or a scooter can make your experience more enjoyable. However, it is essential to follow the airline's policies regarding bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your departure to inquire about their policy and ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, as long as you prepare it for travel. Some airlines require that you charge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a physician's letter prior to allowing you to travel with your powered wheelchair. Some airlines will also require you to take apart the battery-powered part of your wheelchair and place it in a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours before your scheduled departure time so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. It's important to bring any documentation, like the owner's manual as well as any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
On arrival at the ticket counter or gate, make sure to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Be sure to describe the type of wheelchair you have and any other accessories you may require, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be keeping your wheelchair in a specific cart or examining it for storage. If you're taking a transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, try to take a direct flight which will cut down on the amount of times your equipment will be moved between locations.
Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo compartment along with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair like they do with your luggage. Take a photo of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.