How To Tell If You're In The Right Position To Go After Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
How To Tell If You're In The Right Position To Go After Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few aspects to take into consideration when traveling with powered chairs. The staff at the airport and the airline will inquire about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to use it.
Make sure you have these details prepared before you travel to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that meet air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines 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. In addition they'll be able to move on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or muddy roads. They can also be equipped with a unique drive system which allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the gates for boarding. It is however important to contact them prior to time to make sure they are aware of your needs and to confirm that they are able to meet those requirements. Certain airlines require you to be at least one hour prior to the departure time you have scheduled This is crucial during busy travel periods.
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 it's first come, first serve. The federal regulations also demand that any additional batteries be inspected by a scooter or wheelchair. They must be disconnected unless they are specifically designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour before your flight, to ensure proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions and other helpful details about your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed for secure and comfortable travel. These electric chairs can be folded and comply with airline standards for battery size and handling, as well as stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can help you plan your travel plans and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that the battery is safely stowed in a straight position.
Depending on the airline you travel with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, your address, your telephone number, and the wheelchair model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment if it gets lost or damaged during your travels. You may also consider purchasing aftermarket slings like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will allow you to remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airline and airport personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure the proper stowage of your equipment is completed. If you can you can arrive earlier than two hours prior to your departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This lets you check in early and provides ample time for the representative of the airline to assist you in stowing your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair before you here travel. This serves as proof if your device gets damaged during the flight. This will help you in obtaining compensation for the damages from the airline. You should also think about bringing a seat cushion with you, so that the flight is as relaxing as possible for you. 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
The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be daunting. However, with proper preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, flying using your electric chair is possible.
Speak to an airline representative before making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They will be able to guide you in the best direction, regardless of whether you prefer to make your seat at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it's advised to arrive at least one hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to examine your equipment and make sure that it is safely stored for your journey.
Depending on the type of chair you own, it may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it's important to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly in order to aid the airline employees handling your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair, including the owner's manual or warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any accessories that can be removed prior to when you travel to the airport, and to make sure all controls are in working order.
When you arrive at an airport the electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and then stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging you a cost to store assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for those with disabilities since they can avoid unnecessary costs.
A representative from the airline can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can be able to fit into the aircraft aisle when the plane lands. You can then disembark and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the closest possible location to the aircraft door, either at the jetbridge or the gate.
A trip with an electric chair can be daunting, but with careful planning and adherence to guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the thrill of exploring new locations without difficulty. It is essential to keep in mind that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair, you won't be able to travel with the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for those with mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, however it's essential to follow your airline's policies for the transportation and storage of your chair on board the airplane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact the airline prior to your departure to inquire about their policies and to get any questions answered.
Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair on your flight, so long as you prepare it properly for travel. Certain airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will need a doctor's letter before they will allow you to travel with your powered wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair, and place it into a case that is safe.
Get to the airport at least two hours before your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before departure. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, including your owner manual and any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and can prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
When you arrive at the airline's ticket counter or gate, make sure to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Discuss your wheelchair and any accessories you might require for example, sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage or if it will be transferred to the aircraft using an appropriate cart. If you're taking a transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, you should try to take a direct flight which will cut down on the amount of times your equipment will be moved between different locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo area along with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair just as they would with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, you must capture a photo before leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.