10 Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair That Are Unexpected
10 Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair That Are Unexpected
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are many things to take into consideration. The staff at the airport and the airline will inquire about the dimensions of your chair, battery type, and how to handle it.
Make sure you have these details ready before you go to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stored on planes. They typically come with non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel and can be tucked under the plane as checked baggage. In addition they'll be able to move on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips brick or muddy roads. They could also be fitted with a unique drive system that permits them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the boarding gates. It is however important to contact them prior to time to ensure that they are aware of your needs and confirm that they can meet your needs. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of the time of departure, which is especially important during busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes that allows for the stowage of a mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is not large enough and it's first come, first served. Federal regulations also require that all batteries added to the system be checked by the wheelchair or scooter. They must be removed 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 request that you check-in an hour before your flight, to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions and other helpful information about your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to offer a safe and convenient method of travel. These chairs are designed to fold and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling, and stowage. If you are planning to travel with the airline of your preference, you should contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair for safety purposes and 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 the airline you use depending on your airline, you might be asked to label your wheelchair with the following information such as your name, address, phone number and model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment in case it should become lost or damaged during your trip. You may also consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will help you remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airline and airport personnel.
You should arrive at the airport 2 hours prior to your departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. If you can you can arrive at least two hours earlier than your scheduled departure time. This is especially important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This lets you check in early and provides ample time for the representative of the airline to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you travel and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during your flight. This will give you the ability to seek compensation from the airline for damages. You should also think about bringing a seat cushion with you, so that the flight is as relaxing as possible for you. Cushions for seats are essential for flights lasting over an hour. They reduce the pressure on your skin making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, boarding a plane can be an overwhelming experience. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is feasible with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Contact an airline representative before making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best way to check in your chair regardless of whether it's at the ticket counter or the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour before your flight is suggested. This allows the airline plenty of time to examine your equipment and ensure that it will be stowed safely to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the type of power chair you have It may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. In this situation, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the table to aid airline personnel who will handle your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any removable items and ensure that all controls are functioning before leaving for the airport.
Once you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the aircraft. The airlines aren't allowed to charging an additional cost to store assistive devices, such as electric wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for people with disabilities as it allows them to avoid costly expenses.
A representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit down the aisle of the aircraft when the plane lands. You will then be able to board the plane, and your power wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as possible in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
A trip with an electric wheelchair may seem daunting, but with the right planning and adhering to the guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new locations without difficulty. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you are not comfortable moving around in your chair, you'll never be able to enjoy the freedom that travel affords.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for people with mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, but it's essential to follow the policies of your airline regarding the transportation and storage of your chair on board the airplane. Contact the airline in advance to find out their policy on power chairs, and to inquire about any questions.
Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized chair for your flight, as that you prepare it properly to travel. Some airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a doctor's letter before they will allow you to fly with a electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also demand that you remove the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair, and place it in an enclosure that is protected.
Get to the airport at least two hours before your departure time so that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to departure. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, including the owner's manual as well as any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will help speed up the check-in process and can help avoid confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.
On arrival at the airline's ticket counter or at the gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Explain the kind of wheelchair you're using and any other accessories you may require like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be placing your wheelchair in a separate cart or examining it for storage. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the here plane, book an express flight to reduce the number times your equipment is moved between locations.
Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo compartment along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra fees for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. Take a picture of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.