How To Know If You're At The Right Level For Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
How To Know If You're At The Right Level For Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to take into consideration. Airport and airline staff will ask you numerous questions regarding your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.
Be sure to have all these details in hand prior to you travel to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and stowed safely on planes. The FAA can approve them for use on flights, and they can be kept under the plane as checked baggage. Additionally, they will be able to move on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips brick or roads that are muddy. They can also be equipped with a unique drive system that permits 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 gates for boarding. It is important to contact the airline in advance to make sure they are aware of any specific needs and confirm that they will be able to accommodate the requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour before your departure time, which is especially important during busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes that allows for the stowage of a mobility scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited and operates on an initial-come first-serve basis. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair, since federal regulations require that they are disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with an effective design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require that you check in one hour before your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain assembly/disassembly information and other helpful information about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure comfortable and safe travel. These chairs are designed to fold up and meet airline guidelines regarding 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. They can assist in planning your trip and give you the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety purposes and place it into a carryon bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed, and that it is stored upright.
Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, your address, your telephone number, and your wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event it gets lost or is mishandled during your journey. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will help you remain in your chair while you travel with airport personnel and airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport 2 hours prior to your departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. If you are able you can arrive earlier than two hours prior to your departure time. This is especially crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This allows you to arrive early and allows ample time for the airline representative to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair before you travel. This can be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you the possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for any damages. You should consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to make the flight as comfortable as you possibly can. Cushions for seats are essential for flights lasting over an hour. They reduce the pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be a daunting task. However, with proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, flying with your power chair is attainable.
Speak to an airline representative before making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can help you navigate in the right direction, whether you prefer to make your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it is recommended that you arrive at least one hour before your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to check your equipment and make sure that it is safely stored for your trip.
Based on the power chair you have It could be necessary to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it's helpful to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly available to assist staff of the airline handling your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair, such as the owner's manual as well as warranty information. You should also take off any removable items and make sure whether all controls function before you depart for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport the electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging you a fee to stow assistive devices like power wheelchairs. This is a huge 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 able to transfer you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to slide down the aircraft aisle. Then, you can disembark, and your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the shortest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft or at the jetbridge or the gate.
Traveling with an electric wheelchair can seem daunting, but with the right planning and adherence to guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new places with ease. 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 affords.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. If you have a wheelchair or a scooter could make your experience more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's guidelines regarding bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline in advance to find out their policy on power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, so long as you prepare it properly to travel. Certain airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will need a doctor's letter before they will allow you to fly with a power wheelchair. Some airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered part of your chair and put it in a protective case.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before departure. It's recommended to bring any documentation, such as your owner's manual or instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up check-in process and help avoid confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the counter for tickets or at the gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any accessories you may require for example, sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether they will be storing your wheelchair in a special cart or examining more info it for stowage. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book an express flight to reduce the number of times your device is moved between locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo compartment with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. If your equipment arrives damaged, make sure you capture a photo prior to leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.