Five Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Lessons From Professionals
Five Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Lessons From Professionals
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to take into consideration. The staff at the airport and the airline will inquire about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to handle it.
Make sure you have all of this information at hand before you travel to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with the air travel regulations.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and safely stowed on planes. They usually have a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stowed underneath the plane as checked luggage. They'll also be able to navigate on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration stripes bricks or muddy roads. They may also have a patent-pending power drive system that permits them to navigate in tight spaces, or elevators.
Airlines will assist you with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter to the boarding gate. It is crucial to contact the airline in advance to make sure they are aware of any special needs and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate these requirements. Certain airlines require you to be at least one hour prior to your scheduled departure time This is crucial during busy travel periods.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is not large enough and is first come first served. The federal regulations also demand that all extra batteries be checked with the wheelchair or scooter. They must be shut off unless they are specifically designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require that you check in an hour prior to your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent details about your mobility or power chair. scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to provide an efficient and safe method of travel. They can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in planning your trip and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your chair for safety purposes and place it into a carryon bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed, and that it is safely stowed upright.
Depending on the airline you fly with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, your address, your phone number, and your wheelchair model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment in case it gets lost or mishandled during your trip. You might also think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that allow you to remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airline and airport personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. If you are able you can arrive at least two hours earlier than 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 allows the airline representative plenty of time to help you stow your chair.
Before you leave and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage in pursuing compensation for the damages from the airline. It is also advisable to bring cushions for your seats so that your journey is as comfortable as it can be for you. The use of a cushion for your seat is especially important when you travel for longer than an hour, because it will reduce pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
For those who travel with an airline approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane could be an overwhelming experience. However, with the proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, flying with your power chair is possible.
Before booking your flight, talk to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best method to check into your seat regardless of whether it's at the ticket counter or the gate. In either case, arriving one hour before your flight is suggested. This gives the airline ample time to inspect your equipment and ensure it is safely stored for your trip.
Depending on the model of your power chair It may be necessary for you to disassemble it prior to transportation. If this is the powerchair wheelchair case, it's beneficial to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly in order to aid the airline employees handling your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair, including the owner's manual and warranty information. Also, remove any accessories that are removable and make sure that all controls are functioning before leaving for the airport.
Once you arrive at the airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra fees for the stowing of assistive devices like electric chairs. This is a great feature for those with disabilities as it helps them avoid costly expenses.
An airline employee can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which will fit on the aisle of the aircraft once the plane arrives. After disembarking, your wheelchair will be returned to you at the shortest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or at the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with the right planning and following the rules you will be able to enjoy exploring new locations. The most important thing to remember is that if not comfortable moving around in your chair, you will not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that travel offers.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for passengers with mobility problems. If you're traveling with an electric or wheelchair, it can make your experience more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow the airline's guidelines for taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to learn about their policies regarding power chairs and to ask any questions.
Most airlines will allow you to take a motorized wheelchair with you on your trip as long as it's properly prepared for travel. Certain airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to boarding and others will need a doctor's letter prior to allowing you to fly with your powered wheelchair. Some airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery powered portion of your chair and place it in an enclosure that is protected.
Once you're at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. Bring any documents you need to the airport, like your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will speed up check-in process and help avoid confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
If you are at the ticket counter of your airline or at the gate, be sure you be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide the kind of wheelchair you're using and any other accessories you may require, such as cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be keeping your wheelchair in a specific cart or examining it for storage. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book an direct flight to cut down on the number of times your device is moved between places.
Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo area along with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra to store your wheelchair or scooter, just as they would with your luggage. Take a photograph of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.