Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair 101: It's The Complete Guide For Beginners
Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair 101: It's The Complete Guide For Beginners
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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are several things to consider. The airport staff and airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair, battery type, and how to handle it.
Be sure to have this information at hand before you leave for the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and stowed safely on airplanes. They typically come with an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be tucked under the plane as checked baggage. They can also navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration stripes roads that are muddy or brick. They could also be fitted with a unique drive system which allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the gates for boarding. It is however important to contact them ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of your needs and confirm that they can meet those needs. Some airlines require you to arrive an hour before your departure time This is crucial during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of a mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited and is first come, first served. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected as part of the wheelchair or scooter, because federal regulations require they be disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with an effective design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when bringing an electric wheelchair or scooter aboard their flights. They also require to check-in at least an hour prior to your flight so that they can ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get assembly/disassembly information and other helpful details about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are made for secure and comfortable travel. These chairs are designed to fold up and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and stowage. If you're planning to travel with the airline of your choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These experts can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines ask that you remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is safely stowed in a upright position.
Depending on the airline you use, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following information: your name, address, phone number and model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it should become lost or mishandled during 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 least two hours prior to the departure time you have scheduled to ensure that the proper stowage of your equipment is accomplished. Arriving earlier than this is even better if possible, especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and allows the airline representative plenty of time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you leave to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will help you in pursuing compensation for the damages from the airline. You should also think about bringing cushions for your seats to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as it can be for you. Seat cushions are especially important for flights that last more than an more info hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin, attendant controlled electric power wheelchair and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be intimidating. Traveling with a power chair is feasible with proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Speak to an airline representative prior to making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best method to check-in your chair whether at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour prior to your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it's safely stowed for your trip.
Depending on the model of your power chair It could be necessary to disassemble the chair prior to transportation. If this is the case, it is helpful to have get more info clear instructions for assembly and disassembly available to assist airline personnel handling your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair, like the owner's manual and warranty information. Also, remove any removable accessories and make sure that all controls are functioning before you depart for the airport.
Once you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the airplane. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra fees to store assistive devices, like electric chairs. This is a wonderful benefit for those with disabilities since it allows them to avoid unnecessary expenses.
An airline employee more info will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that will fit on the aisle of the aircraft once the plane lands. You will then be able to disembark, and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric chair can be daunting, but with the right planning and adhering to guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new locations without difficulty. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if not comfortable moving around in your chair, you will not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that traveling provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be extremely stressful for those with mobility issues. If you have mobility scooters or wheelchairs, it can make your trip more enjoyable. However, it is essential to follow the airline's policies regarding taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact the airline before your trip to inquire about their policies and ask any questions.
Most airlines will let you bring an electric chair on your flight, so that you prepare it to travel. Certain airlines might require you to recharge the batteries before boarding, and some may require you to have a medical note on file prior to being able to allow you to fly using your power chair. Some airlines may also require you to disassemble the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair and place it in a protective case.
Get to the airport at minimum two hours prior to your scheduled departure so that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to departure. Bring any documentation you may need to the airport, such as your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will make it easier for the process of checking in and will help avoid confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.
If you are at the airline ticket counter or gate, make sure to explain power chairs for handicapped your mobility needs clearly. Provide the type of wheelchair you have and any accessories you require, such as cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage or whether it will be transported to the plane using an adapted cart. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book an express flight to reduce the number times your equipment is moved between locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo compartment with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you extra to store your scooter or wheelchair like they do with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, make sure you capture a photo before leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.