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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few things you should consider when traveling with a powered chair. Airport and airline staff will ask you a lot of questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.
Be sure to have these details in hand prior to you leave for the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with the air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are able to be safely transported and stored on planes. They typically come with a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stowed underneath 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 may also have a patented power drive system that enables them to navigate in tight spaces, or lifts.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the gates for boarding. However, it is essential to contact them prior to time to make sure they are aware of your needs and to confirm that they are able to meet those requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour ahead of the time of departure which is crucial in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes for the stowage and storage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited, and it's 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 be disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with an effective design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when you bring an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour prior to your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent information about your mobility or power chair. scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to offer an efficient and safe method of travel. These power chairs can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines for battery size handling, stowage, and handling. If you are planning to travel with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can help you plan your travel plans and provide you with the latest information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is secured in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you use, you may need to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, your address, your telephone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event that it is stolen or mishandled on your trip. You may also want to look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which aid you in staying in your wheelchair during transfers with airline and airport personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. If you can, arrive at least two hours earlier than the time you plan to depart. This is especially crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This allows you to arrive early and allows ample time for the representative of the airline to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Before you leave, take a picture of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during your flight. This will help you in obtaining compensation for damages from the airline. It is also advisable to bring cushions for your seats, so that the flight is as relaxing as possible for you. Cushions for seats are essential for flights lasting over an hour. They will reduce pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, getting on a plane could be an intimidating experience. However, with the proper preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, traveling using your electric chair is possible.
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 best direction, whether you prefer to check-in your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour before your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure that it is properly stowed for your journey.
Depending on the kind of power chair you have It may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. In this instance it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in hand to assist the airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair. electric wheelchairs for sale includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any detachable items prior to you go to the airport, and to make sure all controls are functioning properly.
When you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and stowed. The airlines are not allowed to charging an additional cost to store assistive devices, such as electric wheelchairs. This is a great benefit for those who have disabilities, as it allows them to save money.
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 can fit into the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you can disembark, and your wheelchair is returned to you at the nearest possible location to the door of the aircraft or at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
A trip with an electric chair can be intimidating, but with proper planning and adherence to guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the thrill of exploring new places with ease. It is crucial to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to travel with the freedom it affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for those with mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stressful for you, however it is important to follow your airline's policies for the transportation and storage of your chair on board the airplane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact your airline before your trip to ask about their policy and ask any questions.
Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair for your flight, as provided you prepare it correctly to travel. Some 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 power chair. Some airlines may also require that you remove the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair, and place it in a case that is safe.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at least two hours before your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your departure. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, such as your owner manual and any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and can help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
When you arrive at the airline's ticket counter or gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any accessories you might require for example, sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether they will be keeping your wheelchair in a specific cart or checking it for storage. If you're taking a transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, make sure to make a direct flight which will minimize the number of times your equipment will be moved between various locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo compartment with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of your wheelchair or scooter, just as they would with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, you must take a picture of it before leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.
