Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair 101: A Complete Guide For Beginners
Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair 101: A Complete Guide For Beginners
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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several aspects to take into consideration when traveling with a powered chair. The staff at the airport and the airline will inquire about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information prepared before you travel to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that comply with the air travel regulations.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and safely stowed on airplanes. They will typically have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel. They can be tucked under the plane as checked baggage. They can also maneuver on rough surfaces like deceleration stripes, gravel, brick or muddy road. They could also be equipped with a patented power drive system that allows them to move in tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the boarding gates. It is essential to call the airline ahead of time to ensure they are aware of any special needs and confirm that they are able to meet these requirements. Some airlines require you to be at least one hour prior to your departure time This is crucial during peak 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. This space is limited and operated on an initial-come first-serve basis. The federal regulations also require that all extra batteries be inspected by a wheelchair or scooter. They must be disconnected unless they are specifically designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when you bring electric wheelchairs or scooters on their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour before your flight so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent details about your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to offer the most secure and comfortable method of travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold, and they meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and stowage. If you are planning to travel with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist in planning your trip and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require you to remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed, and that it is safely stowed upright.
Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, address, your phone number, and the wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it is stolen or mishandled on your trip. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to allow you to remain in your seat during transfers with airport personnel and airline personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. If you can be there more info at least two hours earlier than your departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and gives the representative of the airline get more info plenty of time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you leave to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during your flight. This will help you in obtaining compensation for damages from the airline. You should consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to make your flight as comfortable as you can. A seat cushion is particularly important for flights that will last more than an hour, since this will minimize pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline may be daunting. However, with proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, flying with your power chair is possible.
Before booking your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can help website you figure out the best way to check into your seat regardless of whether it's at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, it is recommended that you arrive at least one hour prior to your flight. This gives the airline ample time to inspect your equipment and make sure that it will be stowed safely for your journey.
Depending on the kind of power chair you own, it may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. If this is the case, it is helpful to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions in order to aid the airline employees handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any detachable accessories before you go to the airport and also to ensure that all the controls are working properly.
Once you arrive at the airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and then stowed. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you more info a cost to store assistive devices like power wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for those who have disabilities, as they can save money.
A representative from the airline can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can be able to fit into the aircraft aisle when the plane arrives. Then, you will be able to board the plane, and your wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as you can in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
It might be difficult to travel with an electric chair, but with right planning and following the rules you will be able to enjoy exploring new places. The most important thing to remember is that if uncomfortable in your chair, you will never be able to enjoy the freedom that traveling provides.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for people with mobility issues. If you're traveling with an electric or wheelchair can make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow the airline's guidelines for bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact your airline prior to your travels to ask about their policy and to get any questions answered.
Most airlines allow passengers to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your trip as provided it's prepared for travel. Some airlines may require you to recharge the batteries before boarding, and some will need to have a doctor's recommendation on file prior to being able to allow you to fly using your power chair. Some airlines will also require you to take apart the battery-powered component of your wheelchair and place it inside a protective case.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, like your owner read more manual and any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will make it easier for the process of checking in and will help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
When you reach the airline ticket counter or at the gate, be sure you communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Provide the type of wheelchair you have and any other accessories you may require like cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or the possibility of transferring it to the aircraft using an adapted cart. If you're transferring to the plane with your electric wheelchair, you should try to book a direct flight, which will cut down on the number of times your equipment will be moved between locations.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane it will be stored in the cargo compartment along with your checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. If your equipment is damaged, be sure to capture a photo prior to leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.