10 Healthy Habits For Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
10 Healthy Habits For Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few aspects to take into consideration when traveling with a powered chair. The staff at the airport and airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair, battery type, and how to use it.
Make sure you have these details prepared before you travel to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that comply with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be carried and stowed securely on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for travel on planes and they can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to move on rough surfaces such as deceleration stripes, gravel, bricks or muddy roads. They can also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending which allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the gates for boarding. However, it is essential to contact them ahead of time to make sure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet those requirements. Some airlines require you to be at least an hour before the departure time you have scheduled, which is important in busy travel times.
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 operates on a first-come, first-serve basis. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair, since federal regulations require that they are disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with a secure design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require to check-in at least an hour prior to your flight to ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. Additionally, they request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent details about your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure comfortable and safe travel. These power chairs are made to fold and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling, and storage. If you're planning to travel with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the latest details regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your chair for safety purposes and place it into a carryon bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed, and it is stowed upright.
Depending on your airline depending on your airline, you might be required to label your wheelchair with the following information including your name address, address, phone number and model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment if it is lost or damaged during your trip. You might also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that help you remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airport and airline personnel.
You should always arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that proper stowage of your equipment is done. Being earlier than that is even better particularly during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This lets you arrive early and allows ample time for the representative of the airline to assist you with stowing your chair.
Before you travel and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you the possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for any damages. It is also advisable to bring an extra cushion for your seat, so that the flight is as relaxing as possible for you. Cushions for seats are essential for flights lasting over an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline can be daunting. Air travel with a power chair is possible with the proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Talk to an airline representative before making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best way to check in your chair regardless of whether it's at the ticket counter or the gate. In either case, it's recommended that you arrive at least an hour before your flight. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure it is safely and properly stored for your journey.
Depending on your power chair, it may be necessary for you to disassemble it before it is transported. In this case, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the go to help airline personnel who will handle your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair, like the owner's manual as well as warranty information. You should also take off any removable items and check that all controls work before you depart for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge you extra for stowing assistive devices such as electric chairs. This is a great benefit for passengers with disabilities since they can save money.
An airline employee can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit down the aisle of the aircraft once the plane arrives. Then, you can disembark, and your wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with the proper planning and following the guidelines you can have fun exploring new destinations. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if not comfortable in your chair, you'll never take advantage of the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be extremely stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stressful for you, but it's essential to follow the guidelines of your airline for bringing and stowing your chair on board the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact the airline before your trip to inquire about their policy and to get any questions answered.
Many electric wheelchairs lightweight airlines will allow you to bring an electric wheelchair on your trip as you've prepared it for travel. Certain airlines might require you to discharge the batteries before boarding, and some will need to have a doctor's recommendation on file before they will allow you to fly with your motorized chair. Some airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered portion of your chair and then place it in a case that is protected.
Get to the airport at minimum two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your departure. Bring any documentation you may need to the airport, such as your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
If you are at the counter for tickets to airline or at the gate, be sure you be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Explain your wheelchair and any accessories you may require like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or the possibility of transferring it to the aircraft with an appropriate cart. 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.
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 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.