The One Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Trick Every Person Should Know
The One Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Trick Every Person Should Know
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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several things you should consider when traveling with a powered chair. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you a lot of questions regarding your chair's dimensions and battery type as well as how it should be handled.
Be sure to have this information at hand before you head to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with the air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and stowed securely on planes. They typically come with an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be tucked under the plane as checked baggage. They can also maneuver on rough surfaces, such as deceleration stripes, gravel, bricks or muddy roads. They could also be fitted with a unique drive system that allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
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 they are aware of your requirements and confirm that they can meet those needs. Certain airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to your scheduled departure This is particularly important during busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes for the stowage and storage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is not large enough, and it's first come first served. They also require that any extra batteries be checked as part of the scooter or wheelchair since federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless it is equipped with a safe design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour prior to your flight time to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions as well as other useful information regarding your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to provide an efficient and safe way to travel. These power chairs can be folded and comply with airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These experts can assist you in planning your travel plans and provide you with the most current details regarding battery requirements. They can also provide you with assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety and then place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals aren't exposed, and that it is stowed upright.
Depending on the airline you fly with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, address, your phone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event that it is lost or mishandled on your trip. You may also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will help you remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airline and airport personnel.
You should arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to the departure time you have scheduled to ensure the proper stowage of your equipment is completed. Arriving earlier than this is even better if possible, especially during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This lets you check in earlier and gives plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you travel, take a picture of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during your flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for damages from the airline. You should also consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat, so that the flight is as relaxing as possible for you. A seat cushion is especially important for flights that last over an hour, as it will reduce the pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline can be a daunting task. But, with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, air travel with your power chair is feasible.
Speak to an airline representative before making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best method to check into your seat regardless of whether it's at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it's recommended to arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure that it is properly stored to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the type of power chair you have It could be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. If this is the case, it is beneficial to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions on hand to help the airline personnel handling your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair, including the owner's manual and warranty information. You should also remove any removable accessories and check that all controls work before leaving for the airport.
When you arrive at an airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and then stowed. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you an additional fee to stow assistive devices like power wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for people who have disabilities, as they can save money.
An airline employee can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can be able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft once the plane arrives. After disembarking, your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the shortest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft or at the jetbridge or at the gate.
It might be difficult to travel with an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines, you can enjoy exploring new places. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you're not comfortable in your chair, you will never be able to enjoy the freedom that travel offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for those who have mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the experience less stressful for you, however it's important to adhere to your airline's policies for transporting and stowing your chair on the airplane. Contact the airline in attendant controlled electric wheelchair advance to learn about their policies regarding power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair for your flight, so long as you prepare it properly to travel. Some airlines require that you discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a physician's letter prior to allowing you to fly with your electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered part of your chair and then place it in a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours before your departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's important to bring any documentation, such as your owner manual and any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up check-in process and help avoid confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the ticket counter of your airline or gate, be sure to explain your mobility needs clearly. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any other accessories you might require, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be keeping your wheelchair in a special cart or checking it for stowage. If you're going to transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, you should try to make a direct flight which will reduce the number of times that your equipment is moved between different locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment as checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. Take a photo of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.