Why Adding Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair To Your Life Can Make All The The Difference
Why Adding Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair To Your Life Can Make All The The Difference
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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few aspects to take into consideration when traveling with a powered chair. Airport and airline staff will ask you many questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have these details prepared before 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 airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and stowed safely on planes. The FAA can approve them for air travel and they can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore, they will be able to move on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips brick or roads that are muddy. They may also be equipped with a patented drive system that allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter to the gate to board. However, it is essential to contact them ahead of time to ensure they are aware of your needs and to confirm they can meet those needs. Certain airlines require that you arrive one hour prior to your departure time which is essential in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. This space is limited and operated 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 must be removed from the device unless the chair is equipped with an effective design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also request that you check in an hour before your flight so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful details about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to provide a safe and convenient method of travel. These chairs are designed to fold and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling, and storage. 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 itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines will require you to remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is secured in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, your address, your number, and your wheelchair model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment if it is lost or damaged during your trip. You might also consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that allow you to remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airline and airport personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. Arriving earlier than this is even better especially during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This allows you to check in earlier and gives plenty of time for the airline representative to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Before you travel and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged during your flight. This will give you the ability to seek compensation from the airline for damages. You should also think about bringing cushions for your seats to ensure that your flight is as relaxing as possible for you. Seat cushions are particularly important when you travel for more than an hour. They 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 is approved by the airline more info may be daunting. Traveling with a power chair is possible with the proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, speak to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the right direction, regardless of whether you prefer to get your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour before your flight is recommended. This gives the airline ample time to inspect your equipment and ensure it will be safely towed for your journey.
Depending on the kind of chair you own It may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it is helpful to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly available to assist staff of the airline handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable accessories before you leave for the airport, and to make sure all the controls are functioning properly.
When you arrive at an airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging you a cost to store assistive devices, such as power wheelchairs. This is a great feature for passengers with disabilities, since it allows them to avoid unnecessary expenses.
Once the plane is in the air in the air, a representative from the airline will be in a position to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that is able to slide into the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you will be able to board the plane, and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as possible in either the jet bridge or at the website gate.
It may seem daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new places. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you're not comfortable moving around in your chair, you'll not be able to fully take advantage of the freedom that travel offers.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for people with mobility problems. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the experience less stressful for you, but it's essential to follow the policies of your airline regarding bringing and stowing your chair on the plane. Contact the airline ahead of time to learn about their policies on power chairs, and to ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, so provided you prepare it correctly to travel. Some airlines require you to discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will need a doctor's letter before they will allow you to website travel with your power wheelchair. Some airlines may also demand that you take down the battery-powered part of your chair, and place it into a protective case.
Get to the airport at least two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before departure. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, including the owner's manual as well as any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will speed up check-in and prevent confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the airline's ticket counter or at the gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any other accessories you may require, such as seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be keeping your wheelchair in a separate cart or checking it for storage. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book an express flight to reduce the number times your equipment is moved between locations.
Once your wheelchair is in the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment as checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you extra to store your wheelchair or scooter, the same way they would with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, you must capture a photo before you leave the airport and immediately inform the airline.