The Unknown Benefits Of Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
Traveling With an Airline Approved electric wheelchairs lightweight Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are several aspects to be considered. The airport staff and the airline will inquire about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information ready prior to your trip to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be carried and stowed securely on planes. They typically come with an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. In addition, they will be able to move on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or muddy roads. They may also have a patented power drive system that permits them to navigate in tight spaces, or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the gate to board. It is however important to contact them ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of your requirements and to confirm that they are able to meet those needs. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour before your scheduled departure time which is essential during busy travel periods.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes that allows for the stowage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited and operated on the basis of first-come-first-serve. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected in conjunction with the wheelchair or scooter, since federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless it is equipped with an effective design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when bringing electric wheelchairs or scooters on their flights. They also request that you check-in an hour prior to your flight so that they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get assembly/disassembly information and other helpful information about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure comfortable and safe travel. These chairs are designed to fold up and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and stowage. If you plan to fly with your airline of preference, you should 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 current information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines will require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed and it is stored upright.
Depending on the airline you use depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, address, your telephone number, and your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment in case it should become lost or damaged during your trip. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to assist you in staying in your seat during transfers with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport 2 hours prior to your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment storage. If possible you can arrive earlier than two hours prior to your scheduled departure time. This is especially important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This lets you arrive early and allows ample time for the airline representative to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Before you leave and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your wheelchair is damaged on the flight. This will give you possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for any damages. It is also advisable to bring a seat cushion with you to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as possible for you. A seat cushion is particularly important when you travel for longer than an hour, because this will minimize the pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an small electric wheel chair wheelchair that is approved by the airline can be daunting. However, with the proper preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, traveling with your power chair is attainable.
Talk to an airline representative prior to making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best electric wheelchairs method to check into your seat, whether it is at the ticket counter or the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour before your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it's safely stored to be ready for your trip.
Depending on your power chair, it may be necessary to disassemble the chair prior to transport. In this case it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the table to aid airline personnel who will handle your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any detachable accessories before you travel to the airport and to ensure all the controls are working properly.
Once you arrive at an airport, your discount electric wheelchairs chair will be loaded into the cargo area and then stowed. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra to store assistive devices, like power chairs. This is an excellent benefit for people with disabilities, since it allows them to avoid unnecessary expenses.
After the plane has landed in the air, a representative from the airline will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit into the aisle of the aircraft. After disembarking, your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft or at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric chair can be daunting, but with careful planning and adhering to guidelines, it is possible to experience the joy of exploring new places with ease. It is essential to keep in mind that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to enjoy the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for people who have mobility issues. If you're traveling with mobility scooters or wheelchairs could make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's guidelines regarding taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline in advance to learn about their policies regarding power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Most airlines will allow passengers to bring an electric wheelchair on your trip as long as it's properly prepared for travel. Some airlines require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will require a doctor's letter before they will allow you to fly with a power wheelchair. Some airlines may also require that you take down the battery-powered portion of your chair, and then place it in a protective case.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before departure. It's important to bring any documentation, such as the owner's manual as well as any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up check-in and prevent confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the ticket counter of your airline or gate, be sure you be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Explain the type of wheelchair you have and any other accessories you may require like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether they will be keeping your wheelchair in a special cart or examining it for storage. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book an express flight to reduce the number times your equipment is moved between places.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment, just like checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair the same way they would with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, make sure you capture a photo before leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.