Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Tips From The Best In The Industry
Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Tips From The Best In The Industry
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many things to consider when traveling with powered chairs. The staff at the airport and the airline will inquire about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to use it.
Make sure you have this information ready prior to your trip to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that are compliant with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are able to be safely transported and stored on planes. They usually have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel and can be stowed underneath the plane as checked luggage. They will also be able navigate on rough surfaces like deceleration stripes, gravel, brick or muddy road. They could also be equipped with a patent-pending power drive system that permits them to move in tight spaces or lifts.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the gates for boarding. It is important to contact the airline in advance to ensure they are aware of any special needs and confirm that they can meet these requirements. Some airlines require that you arrive one hour prior to your departure time This is crucial in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes that allows for the stowage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is limited and on a first-come, first-serve basis. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected in conjunction with the scooter or wheelchair, as federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless it is equipped with an effective design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour prior to your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other details about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed for safe and convenient travel. These power chairs are made to fold and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling, and stowage. If you plan to travel with the airline of your choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can assist you in planning your trip and give you the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety. You can then put it into a carryon bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals aren't exposed, and it is placed upright.
Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, address, your number, and the wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment if it should become lost or mishandled during your trip. You may want to buy aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to allow you to remain in your seat during transfers with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours before your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment storage. If you are able, arrive at least two hours earlier than the time you plan to depart. This is particularly crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This allows you to arrive early and allows plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair before you travel. This can be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will help you in obtaining compensation for the damages from the airline. Consider bringing along cushions to make the flight as comfortable as you possibly can. Seat cushions are especially important for flights lasting over an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, getting on a plane could be an electric wheelchairs uk intimidating experience. But, with the right preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, flying with a power chair is feasible.
Before booking your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best method to check in your chair, whether it is 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 examine your equipment and ensure that it will be safely towed for your trip.
Depending on the type of power chair you have, it may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. If this is the case, it's important to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly in order to aid the staff of the airline handling your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair, including the owner's manual or warranty information. You should also remove any removable accessories and ensure that all controls work before you leave for the airport.
Once you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the airplane. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra to store assistive devices, like electric chairs. This is a huge benefit for those with disabilities as it allows them to avoid costly expenses.
Once the plane is in the air, an airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit down the aircraft aisle. You will then be able to get off the plane and your power wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as is possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new destinations. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if not comfortable in your chair, you'll not be able to fully take advantage of the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for passengers who suffer from mobility issues. If you have mobility scooters or wheelchairs could make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow the airline's guidelines regarding taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline ahead of time to learn about their policies on power chairs and to ask any questions.
Most airlines allow you to bring an electric chair on your flight, so that you prepare it correctly for travel. Certain airlines might require you to discharge the batteries before boarding, and some may require you to have a doctor's note in order to let you fly with your motorized chair. Some airlines will also require you to take apart the battery-powered part of your wheelchair and place it in a case that is protected.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your departure. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, such as your owner manual and any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will speed up the process of checking in and will make sure that there is no confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.
If you are at the counter for tickets to airline or gate, make sure to communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Discuss your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you may require for example, sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or if it will be transferred to the aircraft using an appropriate cart. If you're going to transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, you should try to take a direct flight which will cut down on the number of times your equipment will be moved between different locations.
Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo compartment with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for storing your wheelchair or scooter, the same way they would with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, be sure to take a photograph before leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.