5 Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Lessons From The Professionals
5 Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Lessons From The Professionals
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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are many things to consider. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you numerous questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information ready prior to your trip to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that meet the requirements for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and stowed securely on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for air travel and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. They will also be able navigate on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration stripes roads that are muddy or brick. They may also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending which allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the boarding gates. However, it is essential to contact them ahead of time to make sure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet those needs. Some airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to the time of departure This is particularly 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 operates on a first-come, first-serve basis. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected in conjunction with the wheelchair or scooter, since federal regulations require that they be disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with an effective design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to taking an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour before your flight, to ensure proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions and other helpful details about your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed for safe and convenient travel. These electric chairs can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines regarding battery size handling, stowage, and handling. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can assist you in planning your trip and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also give you 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 the battery is safely stowed in an upright position.
Depending on your airline or airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following information such as your name address, address, phone number and model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment in case it should become lost or damaged during your travels. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will assist you in staying in your chair while you travel with airport personnel and airline personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at at minimum two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that the proper storage of your equipment lightest electric wheelchair uk is completed. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better if possible particularly during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This lets you check-in early and allows the representative of the airline plenty of time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair prior to traveling. This serves as proof if your device gets damaged during the flight. This will help you in obtaining compensation for damages from the airline. It is also advisable to bring cushions for your seats to ensure that your flight is as relaxing as possible for you. Seat cushions are especially important 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 using an approved airline electric wheelchair, the process of boarding a plane can be 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, speak to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They will be able to help you navigate in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to make your seat at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour prior to your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure it is safely and properly stored for your trip.
Depending on the kind of power chair you have, 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 staff of the airline handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also recommended to remove any accessories that are removable and check that all controls are functioning before you depart for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and then stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra for the stowing of assistive devices like electric chairs. This is a great feature for those with disabilities as it helps them save money.
A representative from the airline will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit down the aisle of the aircraft when the plane arrives. Then, you will be able to disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric chair can be daunting, but with careful planning and adhering to guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the thrill of exploring new destinations without difficulty. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you are not comfortable moving around in your chair, you will never enjoy the freedom that traveling offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for those who have mobility issues. If you're using mobility scooters or wheelchairs could make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it is crucial to adhere to the airline's policies regarding bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline ahead of time to find out their policy on power chairs, and to ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair for your flight, so provided you prepare it correctly to travel. Some airlines may require you to charge the batteries before boarding, and some will need to have a doctor's recommendation in order to allow you to fly with your power chair. Certain airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered component of your chair and then place it in a protective case.
When you arrive at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours prior to the time of departure to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, such as your owner manual and any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will make it easier for the check-in process and can make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
When you arrive at the ticket counter of your airline or at the gate, be sure to be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Explain 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 examining your wheelchair for stowage, or whether it will be transported to the aircraft with an appropriate cart. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book an express flight to reduce the amount of times your equipment is moved between different locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you additional fees for the storage of your wheelchair or scooter, like they do with your luggage. Take a picture of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.