10 Things That Everyone Is Misinformed About Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric WheelchairThere are several aspects to take into consideration when traveling with an electric chair. The airport staff and airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair, battery type, and how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information ready before you go to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with the 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. The FAA will approve them for travel on planes, and they can be kept under the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore, they will be able to move on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips, brick or roads that are muddy. They may also have a patent-pending power drive system that allows them to navigate in tight spaces, or lifts.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the boarding gates. It is essential to call the airline ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of any special needs and to confirm that they can meet these requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive one hour prior to your scheduled departure time This is crucial in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is not large enough and it's first come, first served. The federal regulations also demand that all batteries added to the system be inspected by a scooter or wheelchair. They must be removed unless they are specifically designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to taking an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also request to check-in one hour prior to your flight time to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions as well as other useful information about your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed for comfortable and safe travel. These power chairs can be folded and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and stowage. If you plan to travel with the airline of your preference, you should contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist in preparing your itinerary and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety and then place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed, and that it is stored upright.
Depending on your airline or airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following information including your name address, number and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it gets lost or is mishandled on your trip. You may also want to look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which allow you to remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airline and airport personnel.
You should arrive at the airport 2 hours before your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. Being earlier than that is even better, especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This lets you check-in early and allows the airline representative plenty of time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair before you travel. This serves as proof if your device is damaged on the flight. This will help you in obtaining compensation for any damages from the airline. You should consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to make your flight as comfortable as possible. Seat cushions are especially important for flights lasting over an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.
Check-In
The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is accepted by the airline can be daunting. But, with the right preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, air travel with your power chair is feasible.
Talk to an airline representative prior to making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best way to check into your seat whether at the counter for tickets or the gate. In either case, arriving one hour before your flight is recommended. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and ensure it is safely stored for your journey.
Based on the power chair you have, it may be necessary for you to disassemble it prior to it is transported. In this instance it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the table to aid airline personnel handling get more info your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair, such as the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any detachable accessories before you travel to the airport and also to ensure that all of the controls are functioning properly.
When you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the airplane. The airlines are not allowed to charging you an additional cost to store assistive devices like power wheelchairs. This is a great feature for passengers with disabilities, because it can help them avoid costly expenses.
Once the plane is in the air at the airport, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to slide into the aisle of the aircraft. After disembarking, your wheelchair is returned to you at the nearest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft or at the jetbridge or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric wheelchair can seem daunting, but with the right planning and adherence to guidelines, you can be able to experience the joy of exploring new places easily. It is crucial to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to enjoy the freedom it offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for those who have mobility issues. If you have mobility scooters or wheelchairs could make your read more trip more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow the airline's policies regarding bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact your airline more info prior to your travels to inquire about their policy and to get any questions answered.
Most airlines will allow you to take a motorized wheelchair with you on your trip as you've prepared it for travel. Some airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will need a doctor's letter to allow you to travel with your powered wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered portion of your chair and then place it in a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours before the time of departure to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documentation you might require to the airport, such as your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will help speed up the check-in process and make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
On arrival at the counter for tickets or at the gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Be sure to describe the kind of wheelchair you're using and any other accessories you may require, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the more info airline more info whether they will be keeping your wheelchair in a special cart or examining it for stowage. If you're taking a transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to book a direct flight, which will reduce the number of times your equipment will be transferred 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 does not permit airlines to charge you extra for storing your wheelchair or scooter, the same way they would with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, be sure to capture a photo prior to leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.