A Step-By-Step Guide To Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair From Beginning To End
A Step-By-Step Guide To Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair From Beginning To End
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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are several aspects to be considered. The airport staff and the airline will inquire about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information ready before you go to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that meet the requirements for air travel.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and stowed securely on planes. They typically come with a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be tucked under the plane as checked baggage. In addition, they will be able to move on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or muddy roads. They can also be equipped with a patented drive system that allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the gates for boarding. It is however important to contact them prior to time to ensure that they are aware of your needs and to confirm that they are able to meet your needs. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour before your departure time This is particularly important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is limited and it's first come, first serve. The federal regulations also demand that any additional batteries be checked with the scooter or wheelchair. They must be shut off unless they are specifically designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when bringing electric wheelchairs or scooters aboard their flights. They also request that you check in an hour before your flight, to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent information about your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to offer the most secure and comfortable way to travel. These power chairs are made to fold and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in planning your travel itinerary and provide you with the latest information on battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines require you to remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is safely stowed in a upright position.
Based on your airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following details including your name address, number, and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it gets lost or is damaged during your travels. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will help you remain in your seat during transfers with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at two hours before the departure time you have scheduled to ensure that the proper stowage of your equipment is accomplished. Arriving earlier than this is even better especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This lets you check in earlier and gives plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair before you travel. This serves as proof if your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage in obtaining compensation for any damages from the airline. You should consider bringing a seat cushion to make your flight as comfortable as possible. Seat cushions are particularly important when you travel for more than an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin preventing soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be intimidating. Traveling with a power chair is possible with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Talk to an airline representative before making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best method to check-in your chair, whether it is at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour before your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it is properly stored to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the model of your power chair, it may be necessary to disassemble the chair prior to transport. If this is the case, it's helpful to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions on hand to help the airline employees handling your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair, including the owner's manual as well as warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any accessories that can be removed prior to when you leave for the airport and to ensure all of the controls are functioning properly.
Once you arrive at an airport the electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and then stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging you a cost to store assistive devices like power wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for those with disabilities as it helps them save money.
After the plane has landed in the air, a representative from the airline will be in a position to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit in the aisle of the aircraft. You will then be able to board the plane, and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as is possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines, you can enjoy exploring new places. The most important thing to remember is that if you're not comfortable moving around in your chair, you will never enjoy the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. If you're traveling with a wheelchair or a scooter can make your experience more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's policies regarding taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your travels to inquire about their policies and get any questions answered.
Most airlines will allow you to take an electric wheelchair on your trip as you've prepared it for travel. Certain airlines might require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and some may require you to have a medical note on file prior to being able to let you fly with your power chair. Certain airlines may also require you to remove the battery-powered part of your chair and put it in a protective case.
When you arrive at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documentation you may require to the airport, including your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
If you are at the counter for tickets to airline or gate, be sure to communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Provide a description of your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you may need like sideguards or seat cushions. outdoor electric wheelchair Ask the airline if they will be storing your wheelchair in a separate cart or examining it for storage. If you're taking a transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, try to take a direct flight which will cut down on the number of times that your equipment will be moved between different locations.
Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo area along with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. Take a picture of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.