10 Healthy Habits For A Healthy Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric WheelchairThere are a few things you should consider when traveling with powered chairs. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you a lot of questions regarding your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information in your possession prior to you head to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that comply with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA can approve them for use on flights and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to maneuver on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes, brick or muddy road. They could also be fitted with a patented drive system that permits them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the gates for boarding. However, it is important to contact them prior to time to ensure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet your needs. Certain airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to your scheduled departure, which is especially important during busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of a wheelchair or mobility scooter. This space is limited and on an initial-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 be disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with a safe design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when bringing electric wheelchairs or scooters aboard 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 to 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 are endorsed by airlines are designed to provide a safe and convenient way to travel. These electric chairs can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline guidelines regarding battery size handling, stowage, and handling. If you are planning to fly with your airline of choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist in planning your trip and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety and then place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is secured in a upright position.
Based on your airline depending on your airline, you might be asked to label your wheelchair with the following details: your name address, address, phone number, and model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment if it should become lost or mishandled during your trip. You might also think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which allow you to remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at at two hours before the departure time you have scheduled to ensure that proper stowage of your equipment is done. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better if possible especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This lets you check-in early and gives the airline representative ample time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you leave, take a picture of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your wheelchair is damaged on the flight. This will help you to seek compensation for any damages from the airline. You should consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to make the trip as comfortable as possible. A seat cushion is especially important for flights that will last longer than an hour, because it reduces the pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline may be a daunting task. Air travel with a power chair is achievable with proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Before booking your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They will be able to help you navigate in the right direction, whether you prefer to check-in your seat at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it is recommended to arrive at least one hour before your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to check your equipment and make sure that it will be stowed safely to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the type of power chair you own It could be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. If this is the case, it is important to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to help the airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable accessories before you travel to the airport and to ensure all of the controls are functioning properly.
When you arrive at an airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra to store assistive devices, like electric chairs. This is a huge benefit for passengers with disabilities as they can avoid unnecessary costs.
A representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which will fit on the aircraft aisle when the plane arrives. You can then disembark and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the shortest possible location to the aircraft door or at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
A trip with an electric chair can be daunting, but with careful planning and adhering to the guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the thrill of exploring new destinations easily. It is essential to keep in mind that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you won't be able to travel with the freedom it offers.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for passengers who suffer from mobility problems. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stressful for you, but it's essential to follow your airline's policies for transporting and stowing your chair on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to inquire about their policy regarding power chairs and to ask any questions.
Most airlines will allow you to take an electric wheelchair on your trip as provided it's prepared for travel. Some airlines will require that you discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a physician's letter prior to allowing you to fly with a powered wheelchair. Some small electric wheel chair airlines may also require you to remove the battery-powered component of your chair and put it inside a protective case.
Arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to your scheduled departure so that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to flight. It's important to bring any documentation, like 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 prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the counter for tickets to airline or gate, be sure you be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide the type of wheelchair you have and any necessary accessories like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage or if it will be transferred to the plane using a specialized cart. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book an direct flight to cut down on the number times your equipment is moved between locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment, just like checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair like they do with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, make sure you take a picture of it before leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.