How Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Rose To The #1 Trend On Social Media
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric WheelchairThere are several things you should consider when traveling with a powered chair. The airport staff and the airline will inquire about the dimensions of your chair, battery type, and how to use it.
Make sure you have all this information in your possession prior to you travel to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with the 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 usually have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel and can be stowed underneath the plane as checked luggage. Additionally, they will be able to navigate on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or muddy roads. They could also be fitted with a drive system that is patent-pending which allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the boarding gate. It is important to contact the airline prior to your departure to ensure that they are aware of any specific requirements and to confirm that they are able to meet the requirements. Some airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to your departure time, which is especially important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes for the stowage of a mobility scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited, and it's first come, first served. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected in conjunction with the scooter or wheelchair as federal regulations require that they be disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a secure design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also request that you check-in an hour prior to your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other information about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed for comfortable and safe travel. These power chairs can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines regarding battery size and handling, as well as stowage. If you're planning to fly with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines ask that you remove your wheelchair's battery to ensure safety and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is secured in a upright position.
Based on your airline or airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following information including your name, address, phone number and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment in case it gets lost or mishandled during your trip. You may also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will aid you in staying in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. If you are able be there at least two hours earlier than your departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This lets you arrive early and allows ample time for the representative of the airline to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you leave to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during your flight. This will give you the ability to seek compensation from the airline for any damages. It is also advisable to bring cushions for your seats, so that the flight is as comfortable as it can be for you. A seat cushion is especially click here important for flights that will last more than an hour, since it reduces the pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been accepted by the airline can be intimidating. Air travel with a power chair is feasible with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Talk to an airline representative prior to making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They will be able to guide you in the best direction, no matter if you prefer to get your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, it is recommended that you arrive at read more least one hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure it is safely stowed for your trip.
Depending on the type of chair you own It could be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. In this instance it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in hand to assist the website airline employees who handle your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair, like the owner's manual as well as warranty information. You should also take off any removable items and check that all controls work before you leave for the airport.
When you website arrive at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the airplane. The airlines aren't allowed to charging an additional cost to store assistive devices, like power wheelchairs. This is a great benefit for passengers with disabilities as it helps them avoid costly expenses.
After the plane has landed, an airline employee will be able to transfer you from your power wheelchair to one that can fit down the aircraft aisle. You can then disembark and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the shortest possible location to the aircraft door or at the jetbridge or at the gate.
A trip with an electric chair can be daunting, but with the right planning and adhering to guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new places with ease. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you're not comfortable in your chair, you'll not be able to fully take advantage of the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for those who have mobility problems. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stress-inducing for you, but it's important to adhere to the policies of your airline regarding transporting and stowing your chair on board the airplane. Contact the airline in advance to find out their policy on power chairs and to ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair for your flight, as provided you prepare it to travel. Certain airlines may require you to recharge the batteries before boarding, and some may require you to have a medical note on file before they will allow you to fly with your electric chair. Some airlines may also demand that you take down the battery powered portion of your chair, and place it in a case that is safe.
Once you're at the airport, be 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 flight. Bring any documentation you may need to the airport, like your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in process and avoid confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you reach the ticket counter of your airline or gate, make sure to communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Discuss your wheelchair and any accessories you may need, such as seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or if it will be transferred to the aircraft using a specialized cart. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book a direct flight to minimize the amount of times your equipment is moved between locations.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment, just like checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra fees for the storage here of a wheelchair or scooter. Take a photograph of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.