What Is Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair And How To Utilize What Is Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair And How To Use
What Is Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair And How To Utilize What Is Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair And How To Use
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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are many aspects to be considered. Airport and airline staff will ask you numerous questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information in your possession prior to you head to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that comply with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are able to be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA will approve them for travel on planes and they can be stowed under the plane as checked baggage. They can also navigate on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes roads that are muddy or brick. They could also be equipped with a patented power drive system that enables them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the boarding gates. However, it is essential to contact them ahead of time to make sure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm that they are able to meet your needs. Certain airlines require you to arrive at least an hour prior to the time of departure, which is especially important during busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes for the stowage and storage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. This space is limited and operated on the basis of first-come-first-serve. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected in conjunction with the scooter or wheelchair, because federal regulations require they must be removed from the device unless the chair is equipped with a secure design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour before 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 details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful information about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to offer a safe and convenient method of travel. These chairs are designed to fold, and they 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 the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can help you plan your travel plans and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair 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 safely placed upright.
Based on your airline or airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following information including your name address, number, and model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment in case it should become lost or damaged during your trip. You may want to buy aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to assist you in staying in your chair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure proper stowage of your equipment is completed. If you are able be there earlier than two hours prior to your scheduled departure time. This is especially important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This allows you to check in early and allows the airline representative ample time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair prior to traveling. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you the leverage to pursue compensation from the airline in case of damages. You should consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to make the flight as comfortable as possible. A seat cushion is particularly important when you travel for more than an hour, since this will minimize pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those who travel using an approved airline electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane could be a daunting prospect. Traveling with a power chair is achievable with proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Before booking your flight, speak to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best way to check in your chair whether at the ticket counter or the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour before your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure that it's safely and properly stored for your trip.
Based on the model of chair you own It may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. In this instance it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to assist the airline personnel handling your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety or maintenance documents here to your chair, such as the owner's manual as well as warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any removable items and ensure that all controls work before you leave for the airport.
Once you arrive at the airport your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and stowed. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you an additional fee to stow assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is a great feature for those with disabilities because it can help them save money.
After the plane has landed, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to fit down the aircraft aisle. After disembarking, your wheelchair will be returned to you at the closest possible location to the aircraft door, either at the jetbridge or at the gate.
Traveling with an electric wheelchair can seem daunting, but with the right planning and adhering to guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new destinations with ease. The most important thing to remember is that if you are not comfortable in your chair, you'll not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that travel affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, but it's essential to follow the policies of your airline regarding transporting and stowing your chair on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your travels to inquire about their policy and to get any questions answered.
Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair for your flight, as provided you prepare it correctly for travel. Certain airlines might require you to discharge the batteries before boarding, and some will require you to have a doctor's recommendation on file prior to being able to allow you to fly using your power chair. Some airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered component of your wheelchair and place it in a case that is protected.
Once you're at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. Bring any documents you need to the airport, including your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will speed up check-in and prevent confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you reach the ticket counter of your airline or at the gate, be sure to explain your mobility needs clearly. Provide 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 keeping your wheelchair in a separate cart or checking it for storage. If you're going to transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, you should try to book a direct flight, which will cut down on the number of times that your equipment is moved between various 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 the airlines from charging extra for storing a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment arrives damaged, make sure you capture a photo before you leave the airport and immediately notify the airline.