A How-To Guide For Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair From Beginning To End
A How-To Guide For Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair From Beginning To End
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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many things to consider when traveling with a powered chair. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you many questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information ready prior to your trip to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that comply with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines can be safely transported and stowed on planes. The FAA will approve them for air travel and they can be kept in the airplane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to maneuver on rough surfaces, such as deceleration stripes, gravel, roads that are muddy or brick. They could also have an exclusive power drive system that permits them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the gates for boarding. It is important to call the airline ahead of time to make sure they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they can meet the requirements. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour before your scheduled departure This is particularly important during busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is limited and operates on the basis of first-come-first-serve. Federal regulations also require that any additional batteries be inspected by a wheelchair or scooter. They must be disconnected unless they are designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to taking an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also request that you check-in an hour prior to your flight time so that they can ensure 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 information about your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to offer the most secure and comfortable method of travel. They can be folded and comply with airline standards for battery size handling, stowage, and handling. If you're planning to travel with your airline of choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss 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 provide you with instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your chair for safety purposes and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed and that it is safely stowed upright.
Based on your airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following information such as your name, address, phone number and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it is stolen or damaged during your travels. You may also consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will allow you to remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
You should always arrive at at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that the proper storage of your equipment is accomplished. Being earlier than that is even better if possible especially during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and allows the airline representative plenty of time to help you stow your chair.
Before you leave and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for damages. Consider bringing along a seat cushion to make the trip as comfortable as you can. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights lasting over an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
For those who travel using an approved airline electric wheelchair, getting on a plane could be a daunting prospect. Air travel with a power chair is possible with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, talk to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can guide you in handicap chair electric the best direction, no matter if you prefer to read more get your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it's recommended to arrive at least an hour before your flight. This gives the airline discount electric wheelchairs ample time to examine your equipment and make sure that it will be safely towed for your journey.
Based on the power chair you have It may be necessary for you to disassemble it prior to it is transported. If this is the case, it is important to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to help the airline personnel handling your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair, such as the owner's manual as well as warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any detachable accessories before you go to the airport and also to ensure that all the controls are functioning properly.
When you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and then stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge you extra for stowing assistive devices like electric chairs. This is a great benefit for passengers with disabilities since it helps them save money.
After the plane has landed in the air, a representative from the airline will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to slide in the aisle of the aircraft. You can then disembark and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the shortest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft or at the jetbridge or at the gate.
It may seem daunting 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 you are not comfortable moving around in your chair, you will never be able to enjoy the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for people with mobility issues. If you're traveling with a wheelchair or a scooter, it can make your experience more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow the airline's guidelines for bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline ahead of time to find out their policy on power chairs and to ask any questions.
Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your trip as you've prepared it for travel. Certain airlines may require you to charge the batteries before boarding, and some will need to have a medical note on file before they will let you fly with your electric chair. Certain airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery powered portion of your chair and then place it in a case that is safe.
Get to the airport at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before departure. It's recommended to bring any documentation, such as your owner's manual or assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will make get more info it easier for the check-in process and can make sure that there is no confusion about your read more airline's wheelchair policies.
When you reach the airline ticket counter or gate, be sure you communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Explain your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you may require for example, seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be placing your wheelchair in a specific cart or examining it for storage. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book a direct flight to minimize the amount of times your equipment is moved between locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment along with your checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for storing a wheelchair or scooter. Take a picture of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.