Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Tools To Simplify Your Everyday Life
Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Tools To Simplify Your Everyday Life
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few things you should consider when traveling with an electric chair. The airport staff and airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to use it.
Be sure to have all these details in hand prior to you travel to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and stowed safely on airplanes. They typically come with a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be tucked under the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore, they will be able to maneuver on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or roads that are muddy. They can also be equipped with a unique drive system which allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter to the boarding gate. It is however important to contact them prior to time to make sure they are aware of your needs and confirm that they can meet those requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of your scheduled departure, which is especially important during busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is limited and on an initial-come first-serve basis. They also require that any extra batteries be checked as part of the scooter or wheelchair because federal regulations require they are disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with a secure design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour before your flight so that they can ensure proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions as well as other useful details about your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to offer a safe and convenient method of travel. These power chairs are made to fold up and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and storage. If you plan to travel with the airline of your choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can help you plan your travel itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your chair for safety purposes and place it into a carryon bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed, and it is stowed upright.
Depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following details including your name address, number and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment in case it is lost or damaged during your travels. You may also think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which help you remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport 2 hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. Being earlier than that is even better especially during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This allows you to check in earlier and gives ample time for the airline representative to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you leave to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to heavy duty power chair use as proof in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for any damages. It is also advisable to bring an extra cushion for your seat to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as it can be for you. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights lasting over an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline may be daunting. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is possible with the right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Before booking your flight, speak to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best way to check-in your chair, whether it is at the ticket counter or the gate. In any 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 and properly stored for your trip.
Depending on your power chair, it may be necessary to disassemble it prior to transport. In this instance it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the go to help airline personnel handling your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair, including the owner's manual or warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any accessories that can be removed prior to when you leave for the airport and also to ensure that all of the controls are functioning properly.
Once you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and then stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra fees for the stowing of assistive devices like electric chairs. This is a huge benefit for people with disabilities as they can avoid unnecessary costs.
A representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit down the aisle of the aircraft once click here the plane lands. Then, you will be able to get off the plane and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's here door as is possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric wheelchair may seem daunting, but with the right planning and adhering to guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new places easily. It is important to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to enjoy the freedom it offers.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for people who suffer from mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stress-inducing for you, but it's important to adhere to the policies of your airline regarding the transportation and storage of your chair on the airplane. Contact the airline prior to departure to inquire about their policy on power chairs, and to inquire about any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring an electric chair on your flight, so provided you prepare it properly to travel. Certain airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will need a doctor's letter prior to allowing you to travel with your power wheelchair. Some airlines may also require you to disassemble the battery-powered part of your wheelchair and place it in a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, check here make sure to arrive at least two hours before the time of departure to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, such as the owner's manual as well as any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will help speed up the check-in process and can help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the counter for tickets to airline or at the gate, be sure to communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Be sure to describe the type of wheelchair you have and any other accessories you may require, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be placing your wheelchair in a special cart or checking it for stowage. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book an express flight to reduce the number of times your device is moved between places.
Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo area along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you extra to store your scooter or wheelchair like they do with website your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, be sure to take a picture of it prior to leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.