The Reasons Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Isn't As Easy As You Think
The Reasons Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Isn't As Easy As You Think
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many things to consider when traveling with an electric chair. Airport and airline staff will ask you many questions about 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. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with air travel regulations.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are able to be safely transported and stored on planes. They typically come with a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stowed underneath the plane as checked luggage. Additionally they'll be able to navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips, brick or roads that are muddy. They may also have 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 that they are aware of any specific needs and to confirm that they can meet the requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive one hour prior to your departure time, which is important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes for the stowage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. This space is limited and it's first come, first serve. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected in conjunction with the scooter or wheelchair since federal regulations require that they are disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with a secure design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to taking an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour before your flight, so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and 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 provide the most secure and comfortable method of travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold up and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These experts can help you plan your itinerary and provide you with the latest information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is securely tucked away in a upright position.
Depending on the airline you fly with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, your address, your number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it is stolen or damaged during your travels. You may also want to look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which help you remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airport and airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport 2 hours prior to your departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. Arriving earlier than this is even better especially during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and gives the representative of the airline plenty of time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you leave and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged on the flight. This will help you in obtaining compensation for damages from the airline. Consider bringing along cushions to make the trip as comfortable as you possibly can. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights that last more than an hour. They will reduce pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be daunting. Traveling with a power chair is possible with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Talk to an airline representative before making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They will be able to help you navigate in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to check-in your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either read more case, it is advised to arrive at least an hour before your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure that it is properly stored for your journey.
Based on the power chair you have It read more may be necessary for you to disassemble it before transport. In this instance, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the table to aid airline personnel handling website your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair, such as the owner's manual or warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any detachable items prior to you travel to the airport, and to make sure all of the controls are working properly.
Once you arrive at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the plane. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra fees for stowing assistive devices such as electric chairs. This is an excellent benefit for passengers with disabilities, because it can help them avoid unnecessary expenses.
An airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit down the aisle of the aircraft once the plane lands. After disembarking, your powered wheelchair is returned to you here at the shortest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or at the gate.
It might be difficult to travel with an electric chair, but with right planning and following guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new places. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if not comfortable in your chair, you will never be able to enjoy the freedom that travel offers.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for passengers who suffer from mobility issues. If you're traveling with an electric or wheelchair could make your trip more enjoyable. However, it is essential to follow the airline's guidelines regarding bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact the airline prior to your departure to ask about their policy and to get any questions answered.
Many airlines will allow you to read more bring an electric chair on your flight, so that you prepare it to travel. Certain airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will need a doctor's letter prior to allowing you to fly with your powered wheelchair. Some airlines may also require you to disassemble the battery-powered component of your chair and then place it in a protective case.
Arrive at 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 important to bring any documentation, including your owner's manual or instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and avoid confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you reach the counter for tickets to airline or gate, make sure you communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Discuss your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you may need like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair for stowage or if it will be transferred to the aircraft with a specialized cart. If you're going to transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, you should try to make a direct flight which will cut down on the number of times your equipment is moved between different locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane it will be stored in the cargo compartment along with your checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. Take a picture of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.