7 Tricks To Help Make The Most Of Your Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
7 Tricks To Help Make The Most Of Your Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few things to consider when traveling with a powered chair. The staff at the airport and at the airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair, battery type, and how to use it.
Be sure to have this information at hand before you leave for the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that meet the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines can be safely transported and stored on planes. They will typically have an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stored under the plane as checked luggage. In addition they'll be able to maneuver on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or roads that are muddy. They can also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending that allows 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 gates for boarding. It is important to contact the airline prior to your departure to ensure that they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they can meet them. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of your scheduled departure, which is especially important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes for the stowage and storage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is not large enough and is first come, first served. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair since federal regulations require that they be disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a secure design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair on their flights. They also require to check-in one hour prior to your flight to ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. They also request to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent information regarding your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are made for comfortable and safe travel. These power chairs can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline standards for battery size handling, stowage, and handling. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can assist you in planning your travel plans and provide you with the most up-to-date information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed, and that it is safely 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, address, phone number and 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 may want to purchase aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will assist you in staying in your chair during transfers with airport personnel and airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. If you can be there at least two hours earlier than the time you plan to depart. This is especially important during busy holiday seasons 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 photo of get more info your wheelchair prior to traveling. This can be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for damages. You should also consider bringing cushions for your seats so that your journey is as relaxing as possible for you. A seat cushion is particularly important for flights that last more than an hour, since it reduces pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane is an overwhelming experience. Traveling with a power chair is feasible with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Talk to an airline representative prior to booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best way to check into your seat whether at the ticket counter or the gate. In either case, arriving one hour prior to your flight is suggested. This allows the airline plenty of time to check your equipment and make sure that it is safely stored 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. If this is the case, it is helpful to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions in order to aid more info the staff of the airline handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any removable items and check that all controls work before you leave for the airport.
Once you arrive at an airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and then stowed. The airlines are not allowed to charging you a fee to stow assistive devices, like power wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for people with disabilities, as it helps them avoid unnecessary expenses.
When the plane lands, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit into the aisle of the aircraft. You can then disembark and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the closest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or at the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with right planning and following the rules, you can enjoy exploring new destinations. The most important thing to remember is that if not comfortable in your chair, you'll never take advantage of the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for people who have mobility problems. If you're traveling with an electric or wheelchair could make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's guidelines for bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline in advance to inquire about their policy regarding power chairs and to ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow passengers to bring website a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight as you've prepared it for travel. Some airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will require a doctor's letter before they will allow you to fly with your power wheelchair. Some airlines will also require you to remove the battery-powered component of your chair and put it in a case that is protected.
Once you're at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours before your departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documentation you might need to the airport, including your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will make it easier for the process of checking in and will prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
Upon arriving at the ticket counter or gate, make certain to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Be sure to describe the kind of wheelchair you're using and any other accessories you may require like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage or whether it will be transported to the aircraft with a specialized cart. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book an direct flight to cut down on the number times your equipment is moved between places.
Once your wheelchair is in the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment as checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. Take a picture of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.