The Reason Why Everyone Is Talking About Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Right Now
The Reason Why Everyone Is Talking About Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Right Now
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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few aspects to take into consideration when traveling with a powered chair. Airport and airline staff will ask you many questions about your chair's dimensions, battery type and how to handle it.
Be sure to have all of this information in your possession prior to you travel to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that meet the requirements for air travel.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stowed on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for use on flights, and they can be kept in the airplane as checked baggage. Furthermore they'll be able to move on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or roads that are muddy. They could also have a patented power drive system that enables them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the gate to board. However, it is important to contact them ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet those requirements. Some airlines require you to arrive an hour before your departure time, which is important during busy travel periods.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. This space is limited and is first come, first served. Federal regulations also require that all extra batteries be checked with the wheelchair or scooter. They must be shut off unless they are designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask that you check in one hour prior to your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get assembly/disassembly information and other helpful information about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure secure and comfortable travel. These power chairs are made to fold and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling, and storage. If you are planning to travel with your airline of preference, you should contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can assist you in planning your trip and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines require you to remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that the battery is safely stowed in an upright position.
Based on your airline or airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following details including your name address, number and model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment in case it should become lost or damaged during your trip. You may also want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which allow you to remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airline and airport 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 arrive earlier than this, it read more is even better if possible, especially during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and provides plenty of time for the airline representative to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you travel, take a picture of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will help you in obtaining compensation for any damages from the airline. You should also consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to ensure that your flight is as relaxing as possible for you. A seat cushion is essential when you travel for more than an hour, since it reduces pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane is a daunting prospect. Traveling with a power chair is achievable with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Contact an airline representative prior to booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best way to check into your seat whether at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it's recommended to arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it's safely stored for your journey.
Depending on your power chair, it may be necessary for you to disassemble it before it is transported. If this is the case, it's beneficial to have electric automatic wheelchair clear instructions for assembly and disassembly in order to aid the staff of the airline handling your chair. It is here also a good idea to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair, including the owner's manual or warranty information. Also, remove any removable accessories and ensure whether all controls function before leaving for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the airplane. The airlines are prohibited from charging an additional cost to store assistive devices, like power wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for those who have disabilities, as it allows them to avoid costly expenses.
Once the plane is in the air at the airport, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft. You can then disembark and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the nearest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft or at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with right planning and following the rules, you can enjoy exploring new locations. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you're uncomfortable in your chair, you will never enjoy the freedom that travel offers.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for those who have mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey 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 plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact your airline before your trip to inquire about their policy and ask any questions.
Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair for your flight, as provided you prepare it to travel. Certain airlines might require you to charge the batteries prior to boarding and some will need to have a doctor's recommendation on file before they will let you fly with your power chair. Some airlines will also require you to disassemble the battery-powered component of your chair and put it in a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours prior to your departure time to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's also a good idea to read more bring any documentation, including your owner's manual or instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and avoid confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
On arrival at the airline's ticket counter or gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Explain your wheelchair and any accessories you may require for example, sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage or the possibility of transferring it to the aircraft with a specialized cart. If you're taking a transfer get more info to the plane using your electric wheelchair, try to take a direct flight which will reduce the number of times your equipment will be transferred between different locations.
Once your wheelchair is in the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment along with your checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you additional fees for the storage of your scooter or wheelchair, just as they would with your luggage. Take a picture of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.