What Is Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair And Why Is Everyone Speakin' About It?
What Is Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair And Why Is Everyone Speakin' About It?
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are many things to take into consideration. Airport and airline staff will ask you many questions regarding your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have these details prepared before you travel to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that meet air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stored on planes. They usually have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel and can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. Additionally, they will be able to move on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or roads that are muddy. They could also have an exclusive 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 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 you to arrive 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 require that all extra batteries be checked with the wheelchair or scooter. They must be removed unless they are specifically designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before bringing electric wheelchairs or scooters aboard their flights. They also request to check-in one hour before your flight to ensure 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 pertinent information regarding your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to offer an efficient and safe method of travel. These power chairs are made to fold up and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling, and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can help you plan your itinerary and provide you with the latest information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed, and that it is placed upright.
Depending on the airline you use depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, your address, your number, and your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it is lost or mishandled during your journey. You might also consider purchasing aftermarket slings like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that help you remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure to ensure proper equipment storage. Being earlier than that is even better if possible especially during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and allows the airline representative plenty of time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair prior to traveling. This will serve as proof if your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for any damages. You should also think about bringing a seat cushion with you, so that the flight is as relaxing as possible for you. Seat cushions are especially important for flights lasting over an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, boarding a plane can be a daunting prospect. Air travel with a power chair is possible with the right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Before booking your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can help you navigate in the right direction, regardless of whether you prefer to make your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it is recommended to arrive at least an hour before your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure that it's safely stowed for your journey.
Depending on the type of chair you own, it may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. In this situation it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the go to more info help airline employees who handle your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair, such as the owner's manual as well as warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take website out any accessories that can be removed prior to when you go to the airport, and to make sure all the controls are working properly.
Once you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you an additional cost to store assistive devices like power wheelchairs. This is a great feature for those with disabilities since it allows them to avoid costly expenses.
After the plane has landed in the air, a representative from the airline will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to slide in the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you will be able to board the plane, and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as you can in either the jet bridge or get more info at the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines, you can enjoy exploring new places. It is important to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair, you won't be able to travel with the freedom it affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for those with mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, however it's essential to follow your airline's policies for the transportation and storage of your chair on board the airplane. Contact the airline ahead of time to inquire about their policy on power chairs, and to ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring an electric chair on your flight, so provided you prepare it for travel. Some airlines require that you discharge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will need a doctor's letter to allow you to fly with your electric wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered portion of your chair and put it in a case that is protected.
Get to the airport at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, such as your owner's manual or assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will help speed up the process of checking in and will prevent any confusion regarding your airline's wheelchair policies.
On arrival at the airline's ticket counter or gate, make certain to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Discuss your wheelchair and any other accessories you may require for example, seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be placing your wheelchair in a specific cart or examining it for stowage. If you are transferring get more info from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book a direct flight to minimize the number of times your device is moved between different locations.
After 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 additional fees for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. Take a photo of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Notify get more info the airline immediately.