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 several things to consider when traveling with powered chairs. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you a lot of questions regarding your chair's dimensions, battery type and how it should be handled.
Make sure you have these details in hand prior to you leave for the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that comply with air travel regulations.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stored on planes. They typically come with an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stowed underneath the plane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to move on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration stripes roads that are muddy or brick. They may also have a patented power drive system that permits them to move in tight spaces or lifts.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to 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. Some airlines require you to arrive an hour before the departure time you have scheduled, which is important during busy travel periods.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes for the stowage of a mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited, and it's first come first served. Federal regulations also require that all extra batteries be checked with the wheelchair or scooter. They must be disconnected unless they are designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing 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 that you are properly handling your equipment. Additionally, they request to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent details about your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to provide the most secure and comfortable method of travel. They can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and stowage. If you plan to travel with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can assist you in planning your travel plans and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your chair for safety purposes and place it into a carryon bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is secured in a upright position.
Depending on the airline you use or airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following details including your name address, address, phone number, and model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it should become lost or damaged during your travels. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to allow you to remain in your chair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure the proper stowage of your equipment is completed. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better particularly during peak holiday periods or during 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.
Photograph your wheelchair prior to travel. This serves as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you ability to seek compensation from the airline in case of damages. Consider bringing along an extra cushion for your seat to make your flight as comfortable as you can. A seat cushion is especially important for flights that last over an hour, as this will minimize the pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those who travel using an approved airline electric wheelchair, boarding a plane can be an intimidating experience. However, with proper preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, flying with your power chair is possible.
Before booking your flight, speak to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They'll be able to help you navigate in the right direction, whether you prefer to get your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it's recommended that you arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure it is safely and properly stored to be ready for your trip.
Based on the model of power chair you have It could be necessary to disassemble it for transport. In this case, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the go to help airline personnel who will handle your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair, like the owner's manual and warranty information. You should also remove any removable accessories and check whether all controls function before you leave for the airport.
Once you are at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the plane. The airlines are not allowed to charging you a cost to store assistive devices, such as electric wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for passengers with disabilities since it allows them to avoid unnecessary costs.
A representative from the airline can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that will fit on the aisle of the aircraft once the plane lands. Then, you will be able to get off the plane and your wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as is possible, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with the right planning and following the rules you will be able to enjoy exploring new destinations. 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 it offers.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for those with mobility problems. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, but it's important to adhere to your airline's policies for transporting and stowing your chair on the airplane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact the airline prior to your travels to ask about their policy and get any questions answered.
Many airlines will allow passengers to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your trip as provided it's prepared for travel. Certain airlines might require you to recharge the batteries prior to boarding and some will require you to have a doctor's note in order to allow you to fly with your power chair. Some airlines will also require you to take apart the battery-powered part of your chair and then place it inside a protective case.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours before the time of departure to ensure that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to departure. Bring any documentation you may require to the airport, including your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will speed up check-in and prevent confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the ticket counter or gate, make here sure to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Explain the kind of wheelchair you're using and any other accessories you may require like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or whether it will be transported to the aircraft with a specialized cart. If you're transferring to the plane with your electric wheelchair, try to book a direct flight, which will cut down on the number of times your equipment is moved between different locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo compartment with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. If your equipment is damaged, make sure you take a photograph prior to leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.