Why Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Is The Best Choice For You?
Why Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Is The Best Choice For You?
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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are several aspects to be considered. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you numerous questions about your chair's dimensions, 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 comply with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are able to be safely transported and stowed on planes. The FAA can approve them for travel on planes, and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. In addition they'll be able to maneuver on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips brick or muddy roads. 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 gates for boarding. It is crucial to call the airline ahead of time to ensure they are aware of any specific requirements and to confirm that they are able to meet these requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour before the time of departure which is crucial in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of a mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited and it's first come first served. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected in conjunction with the scooter or wheelchair as federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless the chair is equipped with an effective design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour prior to your flight time so that 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 information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other information regarding your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure safe and convenient travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold up and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and storage. If you plan to travel with the airline of your choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These experts can assist you in planning your travel itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide you with assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety. You can then put it into a carryon bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is secured in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you use depending on your airline, you might be required to label your wheelchair with the following details: your name address, number and model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment in case it gets lost or damaged during your travels. You may also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that allow you to remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airline and airport personnel.
You should arrive at at minimum two hours prior to the departure time you have scheduled to ensure that the proper storage of your equipment is done. Arriving earlier than this is even better particularly during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This allows you to arrive early and allows ample time for the airline representative to assist you in stowing your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair prior to traveling. This serves as proof if your device gets damaged during the flight. This will help you to seek compensation for any damages from the airline. Consider bringing along a seat cushion to make your flight as comfortable as possible. A seat cushion is especially important for flights that will last more than website an hour, since it will reduce the pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be a daunting task. 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 will be able to help you navigate in the right direction, whether you prefer to get your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it's advised to arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This gives the airline ample time to examine your equipment and ensure that it is safely stored for your journey.
Based on the power chair you have It may be necessary for you to disassemble it before transportation. 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 and maintenance information to your chair, including the owner's manual and warranty information. Also, remove any removable accessories and ensure that more info all controls work before leaving for the airport.
Once you are at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the airplane. The airlines are prohibited from charging you a cost to store assistive devices, such as electric wheelchairs. This is a wonderful benefit for passengers with disabilities, since it allows them to avoid costly expenses.
When the plane lands in the air, a representative from the airline will be in a position to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to fit down the aircraft aisle. Then, you will be able to get off the plane and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as you can, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric chair can be daunting, but with careful planning and adherence to guidelines, it is possible to experience the joy of exploring new places with ease. The most important thing to remember is that if you're not comfortable moving around in your chair, you'll never be able to enjoy the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be very stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, however it's important to adhere to the guidelines of your airline for the transportation and storage of your chair on the airplane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your travels to inquire about their policy and get any questions answered.
Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair on your flight, so provided you prepare it to travel. Some airlines may require you to recharge the batteries prior to boarding and some will require you to have a doctor's recommendation in order to allow you to more info fly with your motorized chair. Certain airlines may also require you to remove the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair and place it in a case that is protected.
Get to the airport at least two hours before the time of departure to ensure that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before departure. Bring any documentation you might require to the airport, like your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will make it easier for the process of checking in and will help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
On arrival at the counter for tickets or at the gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Be sure to describe website the kind of wheelchair you're using and any necessary accessories like cushioned seats 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 are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book a direct flight to minimize the amount of times your equipment is moved between locations.
Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo area along electric mobility chairs for adults with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair the same way they would with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, make sure you capture a photo prior to leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.