What Can A Weekly Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Project Can Change Your Life
What Can A Weekly Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Project Can Change Your Life
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are many things to consider. The staff at the airport and airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as 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 has "air safe" batteries that comply with air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are able to be safely transported and stowed on planes. They usually have a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be tucked under the plane as checked baggage. They will also be able navigate on rough surfaces like deceleration stripes, gravel, brick or muddy road. They may also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending that allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter until the boarding gate. It is however important to contact them prior to time to make sure they are aware of your needs and to confirm they can meet those requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour before your scheduled departure, which is especially important during peak 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 on an initial-come first-serve basis. Federal regulations also require that all extra batteries be checked with the scooter or wheelchair. They must be shut off unless they are specifically designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour prior to your flight time to ensure that you are properly handling 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 about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to provide the most secure and comfortable way to travel. These electric chairs can be folded and are in line with airline standards for battery size handling, stowage, and handling. If you are planning to fly 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 most current details regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines will require you to take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed, and that it is stowed upright.
Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, address, your phone number, and your wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it is lost or damaged during your travels. You may also want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which help you remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
You should arrive at at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that the proper stowage of your equipment is completed. Arriving earlier than this is even better if possible especially during busy holiday times 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 leave, take a picture of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you ability to seek compensation from the airline for any damages. Consider bringing along an extra cushion for your seat to make the flight as comfortable as you possibly can. A seat cushion is especially important when you travel for more than an hour, since it will reduce pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, getting on a plane is a daunting prospect. But, with the right preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, air travel with your power chair is attainable.
Before booking your flight, speak to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They will be able to guide you in the best direction, regardless of whether you prefer to make your seat at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour prior to your flight is suggested. This allows the airline plenty of time to check your equipment and ensure that it will be safely towed for your trip.
Depending on the kind of chair you own It could be required to disassemble it prior to transport. In this situation, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly hand to assist the airline employees who heavy duty electric wheelchairs handle your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any detachable items prior to you travel to the airport and to ensure all of the controls are in working order.
When you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the aircraft. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra to store assistive devices, such as power chairs. This is a huge benefit for passengers with disabilities since they can avoid unnecessary costs.
A representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which can fit down the aisle of the aircraft once the plane lands. You can then disembark and your wheelchair is returned to you at the nearest possible location to the door of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or at the gate.
It might be difficult to travel in an electric chair, but with the proper planning and following the guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new places. It is essential to keep in mind that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to travel with the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be extremely stressful for people who suffer from mobility issues. If you're using a wheelchair or a scooter could make your experience more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow the airline's guidelines regarding bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your travels to inquire about their policy and ask any questions.
Most airlines allow passengers to bring an electric wheelchair on your flight, so you've prepared it for travel. Some airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a doctor's letter prior to allowing you to fly with a powered wheelchair. Some airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered part of your chair and then place it inside a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours prior to your departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. It's also a good idea 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 make it easier for the check-in process and can prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
Upon arriving at the counter for tickets or gate, make sure to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any accessories you may require for example, sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether they will be storing your wheelchair in a separate cart or examining it for storage. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book a direct flight to minimize the number of times your device is moved between locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. Take a photograph of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.