8 Tips To Increase Your Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Game
8 Tips To Increase Your Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Game
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are several things to consider. The staff at the airport and airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information at hand before you head to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that meet the requirements for air travel.
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 an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be tucked under the plane as checked luggage. In addition they'll be able to maneuver on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or roads that are muddy. They could also have a patent-pending power drive system that allows them to navigate in tight spaces, or lifts.
Airlines will provide assistance with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter until the boarding gate. It is crucial to call the airline ahead of time to ensure they are aware of any special needs and confirm that they will be able to accommodate them. Some airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to your scheduled departure which is crucial during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. This space is limited, and it's first come, first serve. The federal regulations also require that any additional batteries be checked with the scooter or wheelchair. They must be removed 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 request that you check in an hour before your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions and other helpful information regarding your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are made for comfortable and safe travel. These power chairs can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline guidelines 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 the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can help you plan your travel plans and provide you with the latest information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines will require you to remove your wheelchair's battery to ensure safety and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed and that it is safely stored upright.
Depending on your airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following information including your name, address, phone number, and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it is lost or damaged during your travels. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to assist you in staying in your chair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
You should arrive at at two hours before the time of departure to ensure that proper stowage of your equipment is completed. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better if possible especially during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This lets you arrive early and allows plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair before you travel. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you the ability to seek compensation from the airline for damages. It is also advisable to bring an extra cushion for your seat so that your journey is as comfortable as possible for you. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights that last more than an hour. They can reduce pressure on your skin, and will 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 with a power chair is feasible with proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, talk to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to get your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour prior to your flight is recommended. This allows the airline plenty of time to check your equipment and ensure that it will be safely towed to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the type of chair you own It could be required to disassemble it prior to transport. In this case it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the table to aid airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any detachable accessories before you travel to the airport and also to ensure that all the controls are functioning properly.
Once you are at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the aircraft. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra fees for stowing assistive devices like power chairs. This is a great benefit for passengers with disabilities since it helps them avoid unnecessary costs.
When the plane lands in the air, a representative from the airline will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to one that is able to fit in the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you can disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the nearest possible location to the door of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or at the gate.
A trip with an electric wheelchair may seem daunting, but with careful planning and adhering to guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the thrill of exploring new locations with ease. The most important thing to remember is that if you are uncomfortable in your chair, you will not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that traveling affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for people with mobility issues. If you're using an electric or wheelchair could make your trip more enjoyable. However, it's essential to follow the airline's guidelines regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to learn about their policies regarding power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, so long as you prepare it correctly to travel. Certain airlines may require you to recharge the batteries prior to boarding and some may require you to have a medical note on file prior to being able to allow you to fly with your motorized chair. Certain airlines may also require that you take down the battery powered portion of your chair, and place it in a case that is safe.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours before your departure time so that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to flight. Bring any documentation you might require to the airport, including your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
If you are at the airline ticket counter or at the gate, be sure you explain your mobility needs clearly. Explain the kind of wheelchair you're using and any other accessories you may require, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or whether it will be transported to the aircraft using an adapted cart. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book a direct flight to minimize the amount of times your equipment is moved between places.
After your wheelchair click here has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo compartment with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you extra to store your scooter or wheelchair, the same way they would with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, be sure to take a photograph before leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.