15 Interesting Facts About Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair You've Never Seen
15 Interesting Facts About Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair You've Never Seen
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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are many aspects to be considered. The airport staff and the airline will inquire about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to use it.
Be sure to have all of this information in your possession prior to you leave for the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that comply with the regulations for air travel.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for air travel and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. They can also maneuver on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration stripes bricks or muddy roads. They could also have a patent-pending power drive system that enables them to maneuver in tight spaces or lifts.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the gates for boarding. However, it is important to contact them ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of your needs and to confirm they can meet those requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour before the time of departure which is crucial in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used 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 demand that all batteries added to the system be inspected by a scooter or wheelchair. They must be shut off unless they are specifically designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when taking an electric wheelchair or scooter aboard their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour prior to your flight time so that they can ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather assembly/disassembly information and other helpful information about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure safe and convenient travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling, and stowage. If you are planning to fly with your airline of preference, you should 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 current information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Some airlines ask that you take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that the battery is securely tucked away in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you use or airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following details including your name address, number and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it gets lost or is mishandled on your trip. You may want to buy aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will allow you to remain in your chair during transfers with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
You should always arrive at at minimum two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that the proper stowage of your equipment is done. If you can, arrive earlier than two hours before your departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This lets you check in earlier and gives ample time for the airline representative to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Take a photo of 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 in case of damages. You should consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to make the trip click here as comfortable as you can. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights lasting over an hour. They will reduce the 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 intimidating. However, with proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, air travel with a power chair is attainable.
Before booking your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best way to check in your chair whether at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour before your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure that it's safely and properly stored for your trip.
Depending on the model of your power chair It could be necessary to disassemble it prior to transportation. If this is the case, it is helpful to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions in order to aid the staff of the airline handling your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair, such as the owner's manual as well as warranty information. You should also remove any removable accessories and check that all controls are functioning before you depart for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. The airlines are not allowed to charging you a fee to stow assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for passengers with disabilities, as it helps them avoid costly expenses.
An airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can be able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft when the plane arrives. You will then 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 may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with the proper planning and following the guidelines you can have fun exploring new locations. The most important thing to remember is that if you're not comfortable in your chair, you will never be able to enjoy the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for those with mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, but it's important to adhere to the policies of your airline regarding the transportation and storage of your chair on the plane. Contact the airline ahead of time to inquire about their policy regarding power chairs and to ask any questions.
Most airlines allow you to take a motorized wheelchair with you on your trip as long as it's properly prepared for travel. Some airlines require that you charge the batteries prior to boarding and others will need a doctor's letter to allow more info you to fly with your powered wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require you to take apart the check here battery-powered part of your chair and put it in a case that is protected.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before flight. Bring any documentation you may need to the airport, such as your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in and prevent confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
If you are at the counter for tickets to airline or at the gate, be sure to communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Provide the kind of wheelchair you're using and any get more info necessary accessories, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or if it will be transferred to the aircraft using an adapted cart. If you are transferring 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.
When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane it will be stored in the cargo compartment along with your checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair just as they would with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, be sure to capture a photo before leaving the airport and cheap electric wheelchair immediately inform the airline.