What Is The Reason Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Is The Best Choice For You?
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several things you should consider when traveling with a powered chair. The airport staff and the airline will inquire about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information ready before you go to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that meet the requirements for air travel.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stowed on planes. The FAA can approve them for air travel and they can be kept in the airplane as checked baggage. They will also be able move on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration stripes, bricks or muddy roads. They could also be equipped with an exclusive power drive system that enables them to navigate in tight spaces, or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the boarding gates. It is essential to contact the airline in advance to ensure that they are aware of any special needs and confirm that they will be able to accommodate these requirements. Some airlines require you to arrive an hour before your departure time, which is important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes that allows for the stowage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited and is first come first served. The federal regulations also require that any additional batteries be checked by the wheelchair or scooter. They must be shut off unless they are specifically designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask that you check in an hour before your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask that you 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 have been approved by airlines are designed to provide an efficient and safe method of travel. These power chairs are made to fold, and they comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling, and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can assist you in planning your travel itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date details regarding battery requirements. go to this web-site can also provide you with assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety. You can then put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is securely tucked away in a upright position.
Depending on the airline you travel with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, address, your telephone number, and your wheelchair model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment in case it gets lost or damaged during your trip. You may also consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which help you remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours before your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment storage. If you can be there at least two hours earlier than 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 representative of the airline plenty of time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you travel and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you the leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for damages. You should also consider bringing a seat cushion with you so that your journey is as comfortable as it can be for you. Cushions for seats are essential when you travel for more than an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane is an overwhelming experience. But, with the right preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, traveling using your electric chair is feasible.
Contact an airline representative before booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They will be able to guide you in the right direction, whether you prefer to check-in your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour prior to your flight is suggested. This gives the airline ample time to inspect your equipment and ensure it will be safely towed for your trip.
Based on the model of power chair you have It may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. If this is the case, it's helpful to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to help the airline employees handling your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair, including the owner's manual as well as warranty information. You should also remove any accessories that are removable and make sure that all controls work before you depart for the airport.
Once you arrive at the airport, your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging you a fee to stow assistive devices, such as power wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for people who have disabilities, as they can save money.
Once the plane is in the air, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to fit in the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you can 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.
It might be difficult to travel in an electric chair, but with right planning and following the rules you will be able to enjoy exploring new destinations. It is crucial to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to enjoy the freedom it affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for those with mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the experience less stressful for you, but it is important to follow the policies of your airline regarding the transportation and storage of your chair on the airplane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact the airline before your trip to ask about their policy and get any questions answered.
Most airlines will allow passengers to bring an electric wheelchair on your flight, so provided it's prepared for travel. Some airlines might require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and some will need to have a doctor's note in order to let you fly with your motorized chair. Some airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery powered portion of your chair and place it into a protective case.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your flight. It's important to bring any documentation, including your owner manual and any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
On arrival at the counter for tickets or at the gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Discuss your wheelchair and any other accessories you might require like seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or if it will be transferred to the plane using an adapted cart. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book an direct flight to cut down on the amount of times your equipment is moved between different locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo area along with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment is damaged, be sure to take a photograph prior to leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.