10 Unexpected Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Tips
10 Unexpected Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Tips
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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several aspects to take into consideration when traveling with powered chairs. The staff at the airport and airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to use it.
Make sure you have this information ready before you go to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that comply with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and stowed securely on airplanes. They typically come with an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stored under the plane as checked luggage. They will also be able move on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration stripes, brick or muddy road. They may also be equipped with a unique drive system which allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the gates for boarding. However, it is important to contact them prior to time to ensure that they are aware of your requirements and to confirm that they are able to meet those needs. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of your departure time, which is especially important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes that allows for the stowage and storage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited and operated on the basis of first-come-first-serve. Federal regulations also require that any additional batteries be checked with the wheelchair or scooter. They must be disconnected unless they are designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require to check-in one hour before your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other information about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure comfortable and safe travel. These power chairs are made to fold and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling, and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These experts can help you plan your travel itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety. You can then put it into a carryon bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that the battery is safely stowed in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you use, you may need to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, address, your telephone number, and your wheelchair model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it should become lost or damaged during your trip. You may also want to think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will allow you to remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airline and airport personnel.
You should arrive at at least two hours prior to the departure time you have scheduled to ensure proper stowage of your equipment is completed. If possible be there earlier than two hours prior to the time you plan to depart. This is especially important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and gives the airline representative plenty of time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you leave, take a picture of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you the 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 possibly can. Seat cushions are especially important for flights that last more than an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, getting on a plane could be an intimidating experience. However, with the proper preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, traveling with your power chair is possible.
Before you book your flight, speak 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 at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour prior to your flight is recommended. This allows the airline plenty of time to examine your equipment and make sure that it will be safely towed to be ready for get more info your trip.
Based on the model of chair you own, it may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. In this instance it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly hand to assist the airline employees who handle your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair, including the owner's manual and warranty information. You should also remove any accessories that are removable and check whether all controls function before leaving for the airport.
Once you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and then stowed. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you an additional cost to store assistive devices, such as power wheelchairs. This is a wonderful benefit for passengers with disabilities, as it helps them save money.
Once the plane is in the air at the airport, an airline employee will be able to transfer you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to slide into the aisle of the aircraft. You will then be able to disembark, and your power wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as possible, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
Traveling with an electric wheelchair may seem intimidating, but with proper planning and adherence to guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the thrill of exploring new locations without difficulty. The most important thing website to keep in mind is that if you're not comfortable moving around in your chair, you'll never enjoy the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be extremely stressful for people who suffer from mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stress-inducing for you, but it's essential to follow your airline's policies for bringing and stowing your chair on board the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact the airline prior to your travels to inquire about their policy and get any questions answered.
Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair for your flight, so that you prepare it properly to travel. Some airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a physician's letter prior to allowing you to travel with your power wheelchair. Some airlines may also demand that you take down the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair, and place it in a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, be sure you arrive website at least two hours prior to the time of departure to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. It's also a good idea 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 and prevent confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the airline ticket counter or gate, make sure you explain your mobility needs clearly. Be sure to describe the type of wheelchair you have and any accessories you require, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether they will be keeping your wheelchair in a separate cart or checking it for storage. If you're taking a transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, make sure to book a direct flight, which will minimize the number of times that your equipment will be transferred between different locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo area along with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra to store your wheelchair or scooter, like they do with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, be sure to take a photograph before you leave the airport and immediately notify the airline.