10 Healthy Habits To Use Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
10 Healthy Habits To Use Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several things to consider when traveling with powered chairs. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you many questions about your chair's dimensions, battery type and how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information ready before you go to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that meet the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are able to be safely transported and stowed on planes. The FAA can approve them for travel on planes, and they can be kept under the plane as checked baggage. They can also maneuver on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration stripes brick or muddy road. They could also be equipped with 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 until the gate for boarding. It is however important to contact them prior to time to make sure they are aware of your requirements and confirm that they can meet those needs. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of the time of departure This is particularly important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes that allows for the stowage of a mobility scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited and on a first-come, first-serve basis. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair, because federal regulations require they must be removed from the device unless it is equipped with a safe design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask to check-in at least an hour prior to your flight time to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions as well as other useful details about your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to provide the most secure and comfortable way to travel. These chairs are designed to fold, and they meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling, and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in planning your travel plans and provide you with the latest information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines ask that you take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is secured in an upright position.
Based on your airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following details including your name address, number and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment in case it should become lost or mishandled during your trip. You may also want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that allow you to remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airline and airport personnel.
You should arrive at at minimum two hours prior to the departure time you have scheduled to ensure that proper stowage of your equipment is accomplished. If you are able you can arrive earlier than two hours before your departure time. This is especially important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This lets you check-in early and gives the airline representative plenty of time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair before you travel. This can be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for damages from the airline. You should also consider bringing cushions for your seats to ensure that your flight is as relaxing as possible for you. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights lasting over an hour. They can reduce pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, boarding a plane can be an overwhelming experience. Traveling on a plane with a powered chair is achievable with right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, speak to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best method to check into your seat, whether it is at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it's recommended to arrive at least an hour before your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure that it's safely stored to be ready for your trip.
Based on the power chair you have It could be necessary to disassemble the chair prior to transport. In this instance it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the table to aid airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair. This 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 ensure all controls are in working order.
When you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and stowed. Airlines electric scooter wheelchair are not allowed to charge you extra for stowing assistive devices such as electric chairs. This is an excellent benefit for those with disabilities since it allows them to avoid unnecessary expenses.
Once the plane is in the air at the airport, an airline employee will be able to transfer you from your power wheelchair to one that is able to 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.
A trip with an electric wheelchair may seem daunting, but with careful planning and adhering to guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the thrill of exploring new destinations with ease. It is crucial to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you won't be able to travel with the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for people who have mobility issues. If you have mobility scooters or wheelchairs could make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow the airline's guidelines for bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline ahead of time to inquire about their policy on power chairs, and to ask any questions.
Most airlines will allow you to take a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight, so you've prepared it for travel. Certain airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will need a doctor's letter prior to allowing you to fly with your electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered portion of your chair and put it inside a protective case.
When you arrive at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours before the time of departure to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. Bring any documentation you may need to the airport, like your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in and prevent confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the counter for tickets or at the gate, be sure to clearly communicate your mobility requirements. Explain the kind of wheelchair you're using and any necessary accessories, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be storing your wheelchair in a special cart or checking it for storage. If you're transferring to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to make a direct flight which will cut down on the number of times that your equipment will be moved between different locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane it will be stored in the cargo compartment, just like checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you extra to store your scooter or wheelchair, just as they would with your luggage. Take a photo of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.