15 Shocking Facts About Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair You've Never Seen
15 Shocking Facts About Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair You've Never Seen
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many things to consider when traveling with powered chairs. The staff at the airport and airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information ready prior to your trip to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be carried and safely stowed on airplanes. They will typically have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel. They can be tucked under the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore they'll be able to navigate on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or muddy roads. They may also be equipped with a patented drive system that allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the boarding gates. However, it is essential to contact them prior to time to ensure that they are aware of your needs and confirm that they can meet those requirements. Some airlines require that you arrive one hour prior to the departure time you have scheduled which is essential during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes that allows for the stowage of a wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is not large enough and it's first come, first serve. The federal regulations also demand that all extra batteries be checked by the wheelchair or scooter. They must be removed unless they are specifically designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require that you check in an hour prior to your flight so they can ensure the 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 information about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed for safe and convenient travel. These power chairs can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline standards for battery size handling, stowage, and handling. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can help you plan your itinerary and provide you with the latest information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require you to 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 are not exposed and that it is stowed upright.
Based on your airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following information including your name address, number and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it gets lost or is mishandled during your journey. You may also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will allow you to remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airline and airport personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. If you are able, arrive earlier than two hours before your scheduled departure time. This is especially important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This lets you check in early and provides plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you in stowing your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair prior to traveling. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged on the flight. This will help you to seek compensation for damages from the airline. Consider bringing along cushions to make the flight as comfortable as possible. Cushions for seats are essential when you travel for more than an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that has been accepted by the airline can be daunting. However, with proper preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, traveling using your electric chair is attainable.
Talk to an airline representative prior to making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best way to check in your chair whether at the ticket counter or the gate. In either case, arriving one hour prior to your flight is recommended. This gives the airline ample time to inspect your equipment and ensure it will be safely towed for your journey.
Based on the model of chair you own, it may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. In this situation it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the table to aid airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any accessories that can be removed prior to when you go to the airport and also to ensure that all controls are working properly.
When you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. The airlines are not allowed to charging you an additional fee to stow assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for passengers who have disabilities, as it allows them to avoid unnecessary costs.
A representative from the airline will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which can fit down the aisle of the aircraft when the plane lands. After disembarking, your wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible location to the aircraft door or at the jetbridge or at the gate.
Traveling with an electric wheelchair may seem daunting, but with careful planning and adhering to guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new locations with ease. It is important to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair, you won't be able to travel with the freedom click here it provides.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for passengers with mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, however it is important to follow the guidelines of your airline for the transportation and storage of your chair on board the airplane. Contact the airline ahead of time to inquire about their policy on power chairs, and to ask any questions.
Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized chair for your flight, as that you prepare it correctly to travel. Some airlines require that you discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a doctor's letter to allow you to fly with your electric wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered part of your chair and then place it inside a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours prior to the time of departure so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, including your owner's manual or assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and can prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the counter for tickets or gate, make sure to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide the type of wheelchair you have and any other accessories you may require, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage or if it will be transferred to the aircraft with a specialized cart. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book a direct flight to minimize the amount of times your equipment is moved between different locations.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment as checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. Take a photograph of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.