15 Interesting Facts About Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair That You Never Knew
15 Interesting Facts About Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair That You Never Knew
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many things you should consider when traveling with powered chairs. The airport staff and at the airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair, battery type, and how to handle it.
Make sure you have these details ready before you go to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that are compliant with the regulations for air travel.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are able to be safely transported and stored on planes. They typically come with a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stowed underneath the plane as checked luggage. They will also be able maneuver on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration stripes, brick or muddy road. They may also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending that permits them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the boarding gates. However, it is essential to contact them prior to time to make sure they are aware of your requirements and confirm that they can meet those requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour before your departure time, which is important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of a wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is limited and operates on a first-come, first-serve basis. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected in conjunction with the scooter or wheelchair, since federal regulations require that they be disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a secure design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to you bring an electric wheelchair or scooter on their flights. They also require that you check in one hour prior to your flight so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain assembly/disassembly information and other helpful information about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to provide the most secure and comfortable method of travel. These power chairs are made to fold and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling, and stowage. If you are planning to travel with the airline of your choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist in planning your trip and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines ask that you remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed, and that it is stowed upright.
Based on your airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following details such as your name, address, phone number and model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment in case it is lost or damaged during your travels. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will assist you in staying in your seat during transfers with airport personnel and airline personnel.
You should always arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the departure time you have scheduled to ensure that the proper storage of your equipment is done. If you can be there earlier than two hours before your departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This allows you to check in early and provides ample time for the representative of the airline to assist you in stowing your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair before you travel. This serves as proof if your device gets damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for any damages from the airline. You should also consider bringing a seat cushion with you, so that the flight is as comfortable electric small wheelchair as it can be for you. Using a seat cushion is essential for flights that will last longer than an hour, because it will reduce pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been accepted by the airline can be intimidating. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is feasible with right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
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, regardless of whether you prefer to get your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour prior to your flight is recommended. This gives the airline ample time to inspect your equipment and make sure that it will be safely towed to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the kind of power chair you have It could be necessary to disassemble it for transport. If this is the case, it is beneficial to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions on hand to help the airline employees handling your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair, like the owner's manual or warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any accessories that can be removed prior to when you go to the airport and to ensure all of the controls are in working order.
Once you arrive at the airport your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and stowed. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you a fee to stow assistive devices like electric wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for those with disabilities since it helps them avoid costly expenses.
An airline employee will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit down the aisle of the aircraft when the plane lands. Then, you will be able to board the plane, and your wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as is possible in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric wheelchair can seem daunting, but with careful planning and adhering to the guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new places with ease. It is important to remember that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair you won't be able to travel with the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for those who have mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the experience less stressful for you, however it's essential to follow your airline's policies for the transportation and storage of 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 policies and to get any questions answered.
Most airlines allow you to bring an electric chair on your flight, as that you prepare it to travel. Some airlines require that you discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will need a doctor's letter to allow you to travel with your powered wheelchair. Some airlines will also require you to disassemble the battery-powered portion of your chair and then place it inside a protective case.
Arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, including your owner manual and any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid, to the airport. This will help speed up the check-in process and can prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
On arrival at the counter for tickets or at the gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Explain the type of wheelchair you have and any other accessories you may require like seat cushions 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 number times your equipment is moved between places.
Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra for storing a wheelchair or scooter. Take a photograph of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.