A Step-By-Step Guide To Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair From Start To Finish
A Step-By-Step Guide To Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair From Start To Finish
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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are several things to consider. 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 travel to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that comply 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 travel on planes and they can be stowed under the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore they'll be able to maneuver on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or muddy roads. They could also have a patented power drive system that permits them to maneuver in tight spaces or lifts.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the boarding gates. It is crucial to contact the airline prior to your departure to ensure they are aware of any specific requirements and to confirm that they can meet them. Certain airlines require that you arrive one hour prior to the departure time you have scheduled This is crucial during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. This space is limited and is first come, first served. Federal regulations also require that all extra batteries be inspected by a scooter or wheelchair. They must be shut off unless they are specifically designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to taking an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also require that you check in one hour prior to your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you 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 comfortable and safe travel. These power chairs are made to fold, and they conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and stowage. If you are planning to travel with the airline of your choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist in preparing your itinerary and give you the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that the battery is securely tucked away in an upright position.
Based on your airline depending on your airline, you might be required to label your wheelchair with the following details such as your name, address, phone number, and model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment if it is lost or damaged during your travels. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will help you remain in your chair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. If you can, arrive at least two hours earlier than the time you plan to depart. This is especially important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This lets you check-in early and gives the airline representative plenty of time to help you stow your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair before you travel. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for any damages. Consider bringing along cushions to make your flight as comfortable as you possibly can. Seat cushions are especially important for flights that last more than an hour. They can reduce pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, get more info the process of getting on a plane could be an overwhelming experience. more info But, with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, traveling using your electric chair is attainable.
Before you book your flight, talk to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best method to check-in your chair whether at the counter for tickets or the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour prior to your flight is recommended. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and ensure that it will be safely towed for your trip.
Depending on your power chair, it may be necessary to disassemble it before transportation. In this case, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the table to aid airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any detachable accessories before you leave for the airport and also to ensure that all the controls are functioning properly.
When you arrive at the airport your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging you an additional fee to stow assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for passengers with disabilities as they can avoid unnecessary costs.
After the plane has landed in the air, a representative from the airline will be capable of transferring you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to slide in the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you will be able to disembark, and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as is possible in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
A trip with an electric wheelchair can seem daunting, but with the right planning and adhering to guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new locations without difficulty. It is crucial to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to travel with the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for those with mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, but it is important to follow the guidelines of your airline for the transportation and storage of your chair on board the airplane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact your airline prior to your travels to inquire about their policy and get any questions answered.
Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, as provided you prepare it for travel. Certain airlines may require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and some will require you to have a doctor's note on file prior to being able to let you fly with your power chair. Some airlines will also require you to remove the battery-powered part of your chair and then place it in a protective case.
When you arrive at the airport, make sure you arrive at least two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's important to bring any documentation, like your owner's manual or instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and avoid confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
On arrival at the airline's ticket counter or at the gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Be sure to describe the type website of wheelchair you have and any other accessories you may require, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or the possibility of transferring it to the aircraft using an adapted cart. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book an direct flight to cut down on the number of times your device is moved between different locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo compartment check here with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you extra for storing your wheelchair or scooter, like they do with your luggage. If your here equipment is damaged, make sure you take a picture of it before you leave the airport and immediately notify the airline.