10 Healthy Habits For A Healthy Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
10 Healthy Habits For A Healthy Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are many things to consider. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you a lot of questions regarding your chair's dimensions, battery type and how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information prepared before you travel to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that comply with the air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines can be safely transported and stored on planes. They usually have a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stowed underneath the plane as checked baggage. Additionally they'll be able to move on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or roads that are muddy. They could also be fitted with a drive system that is patent-pending which allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the boarding gate. It is essential to contact the airline prior to your departure to make sure they are aware of any specific needs and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate these requirements. Some airlines require you to arrive an hour before your departure time This is crucial during busy travel periods.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage and storage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited, and it's first come, first serve. Federal regulations also require that any additional batteries be checked with the wheelchair or scooter. They must be removed unless they are designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before taking an electric wheelchair or scooter on their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour before your flight so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions and other helpful information regarding your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed for comfortable and safe travel. These electric chairs can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline guidelines for battery size and handling, as well as stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These experts can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date details regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair for safety purposes and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery terminals are not exposed and that it is placed upright.
Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, your address, your telephone number, and the wheelchair model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment in case it should become lost or damaged during your trip. You may want to buy aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will allow you to remain in your seat during transfers with airport personnel and airline personnel.
You should always arrive at at two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that proper stowage of your equipment is done. If you can be there earlier than two hours before your scheduled departure time. This is especially crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This lets you arrive early and allows ample time for the representative of the airline to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Before you travel and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during the flight. This will give you the leverage to pursue compensation from the airline in case of damages. Consider bringing along an extra cushion for your seat to make the trip as comfortable as you possibly can. Using a seat cushion is especially important for flights that last longer than an hour, because it reduces pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline can be a daunting task. Traveling with a power chair is possible with the proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They will be able to guide you in the best direction, no matter if you prefer to make your seat at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, it is recommended that you arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This gives the airline ample time to inspect your equipment and ensure it is safely stored for your trip.
Based on the model of chair you own It may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. In this situation, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the go to help airline personnel handling your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair, including the owner's manual or warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any detachable items prior to you travel to the airport and to ensure all the controls are functioning properly.
When you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. Airlines are not allowed to charge you extra for the stowing of assistive devices such as power chairs. This is a huge benefit for people with disabilities since it allows them to avoid unnecessary costs.
Once the plane is in the air, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit into the aisle of the aircraft. After disembarking, your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the shortest possible location to the door of the aircraft or at the jetbridge, 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 locations with ease. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if uncomfortable in your chair, you'll never enjoy the freedom that traveling affords.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for people with mobility issues. If you're traveling with an electric or wheelchair could make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it is 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 inquire about their policy on power chairs, and to ask any questions.
Most airlines will amazon power chairs let you bring an electric chair on your flight, so long as you prepare it to travel. Certain airlines may require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and some may require you to have a medical note on file before they will let you fly with your motorized chair. Some airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered component of your chair and then place it in a case that is protected.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours before your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your flight. It's important to bring any documentation, including the owner's manual as well as any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the counter for tickets or gate, make sure to clearly communicate your mobility requirements. Discuss your wheelchair and any accessories you may need like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether they will be keeping your wheelchair in a separate cart or checking it for stowage. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book a direct flight to minimize the number times your equipment is moved between different locations.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment as checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. If your equipment arrives damaged, be sure to take a picture of it before leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.