The Best Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Gurus Are Doing 3 Things
The Best Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Gurus Are Doing 3 Things
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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many things to consider when traveling with an electric chair. Airport and airline staff will ask you many questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have all of these details in hand prior to you travel to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that are compliant with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stowed on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for travel on planes and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. Additionally they'll be able to navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips brick or roads that are muddy. They can also be equipped with a patented drive system that permits them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the gates for boarding. It is essential to call the airline ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of any special requirements and to confirm that they are able to meet the requirements. Some airlines require you to arrive one hour prior to the departure time you have scheduled, which is important in busy 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. This space is limited and operates on an initial-come first-serve basis. The federal regulations also demand that any additional batteries be inspected by a scooter or wheelchair. They must be disconnected unless they are designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask that you check in one hour before your flight, so they can 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 useful information about your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to offer a safe and convenient way to travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold up and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist in preparing your itinerary and give you the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines require you to take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is secured in a straight position.
Depending on the airline you fly with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, address, your telephone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it should become lost or damaged during your travels. You might also consider purchasing aftermarket slings like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will aid you in staying in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. If you can be there at least two hours earlier than your departure time. This is especially crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and allows the airline representative ample time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you travel and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during your flight. This will give you leverage in obtaining compensation for any damages from the airline. You should consider bringing cushions to make the flight as comfortable as possible. Seat cushions are especially important when you travel for more than an hour. They will best electric wheelchair uk reduce pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline can be intimidating. Traveling with a power chair is possible with the proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, speak to an airline representative to learn 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 chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, it is recommended that you arrive at least one hour before your flight. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure it is safely and properly stored for your journey.
Based on the model of power chair you own 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 available to assist airline employees handling your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair, including the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any detachable items prior to you go to the airport and to ensure all controls are working properly.
When you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the airplane. The airlines are not allowed to charging you a cost to store assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is a great benefit for people with disabilities since it allows them to save money.
A representative from the airline will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can be able to fit into the aircraft aisle when the plane lands. Then, you can disembark, and your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible location to the door of the aircraft or at the jetbridge or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines you can have fun exploring new places. The most important thing to remember is that if you are not comfortable moving around in your chair, you'll never be able to enjoy the freedom that traveling provides.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, however it's essential to follow the policies of your airline regarding the transportation and storage of your chair on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to learn about their policies on power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair for your flight, as that you prepare it correctly for travel. Some airlines require that you discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will need a doctor's letter prior to allowing you to fly with a powered wheelchair. Some airlines may also demand that you take down the battery-powered portion of your chair, and place it into a case that is safe.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before departure. It's recommended to bring any documentation, such as your owner manual and any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will help speed up the process of checking in and will prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
If you are at the counter for tickets to airline or gate, make sure you be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide the kind of wheelchair you're using and any accessories you require, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage or whether it will be transported to the aircraft with an appropriate cart. If you're transferring to the plane using your electric wheelchair, make sure to take a direct flight which will reduce the number of times that your equipment will be moved between locations.
Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo compartment along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair, just as they would with your luggage. Take a picture of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.