7 Helpful Tricks To Making The Most Out Of Your Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
7 Helpful Tricks To Making The Most Out Of Your Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many things to consider when traveling with powered chairs. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you a lot of questions regarding your chair's 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 are compliant with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and stowed securely on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for air travel, and they can be stowed under the plane as checked baggage. 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 drive system that is patent-pending which allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the boarding gate. It is important to call the airline ahead of time to make sure they are aware of any special needs and confirm that they are able to meet the requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour before your departure time This is crucial in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. This space is limited and operated on the basis of first-come-first-serve. The federal regulations also require that all extra batteries be checked with the scooter or wheelchair. They must be disconnected unless they are specifically designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to taking an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask that you 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 to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent information about your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to provide an efficient and safe method of travel. These electric chairs can be folded and are in line with airline standards for battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can help you plan your travel plans and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with 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 are not exposed and the battery is safely stowed in a straight position.
Based on your airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following information including your name, address, phone number, and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it is lost or mishandled on your trip. You might also consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that allow you to remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airport and airline personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. Being earlier than that is even better if possible particularly during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This click here 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.
Before you leave to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your device is damaged during your flight. This will help you in pursuing compensation for damages from the airline. It is also advisable to bring a seat cushion with you to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Seat cushions are especially important for flights that last more than an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane is a daunting prospect. Air travel with a power chair is feasible with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Before booking your flight, talk to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the best direction, no matter if you prefer to check-in your seat at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour before your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure it is safely stowed for your journey.
Depending on the type of power chair you own, it may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. If this is the case, it is important to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to help the staff of the airline handling your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair, including the owner's manual or warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any accessories that can be removed prior to when you go to the airport and to ensure all of the controls are functioning properly.
Once you are at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra fees to store assistive devices, like power chairs. This is a huge benefit for those who have disabilities, as it allows them to save money.
After the plane has landed at the airport, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to check here a wheelchair that can fit in the aisle of the aircraft. You can then disembark and your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the shortest possible location to the aircraft door or at the jetbridge or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric wheelchair can seem daunting, but with careful planning and adhering to the guidelines, it is possible to experience the joy of exploring new locations without difficulty. It is crucial to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair, you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it affords.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for passengers who suffer from mobility issues. If you're traveling with mobility scooters or wheelchairs, it can make your experience more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's policies regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. If website you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact the airline prior to your travels to inquire about their policies and to get any questions answered.
Most airlines allow you to bring an electric wheelchair on your flight as provided it's prepared for travel. Some airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a doctor's letter before they will allow you to travel with your powered wheelchair. Some airlines may also require you to disassemble the battery-powered part of your chair and then place it in a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours before the time of departure so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documents you need to the airport, such as your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will make it easier for the check-in process and prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
On arrival at the counter for tickets or gate, make certain to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Explain the type of wheelchair you have and any other accessories you may require like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be placing your wheelchair in a separate cart or examining it for stowage. If you're transferring to the plane with your electric wheelchair, try to take a direct flight which will minimize the amount of times your equipment will be moved between various locations.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment along with your checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. Take a picture of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.