The Top Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair The Gurus Have Been Doing Three Things
The Top Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair The Gurus Have Been Doing Three Things
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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few things you should consider when traveling with an electric chair. The staff at the airport and at the airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as 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 are in compliance with the air travel regulations.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines can be safely transported and stored on planes. They typically come with an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stowed underneath the plane as checked luggage. They will also be able navigate on rough surfaces like deceleration stripes, gravel, roads that are muddy or brick. They could also be equipped with a patent-pending power drive system that permits them to move in tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate for boarding. However, it is important to contact them ahead of time to make sure they are aware of your needs and to confirm that they are able to meet those needs. Some airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to the time of departure which is crucial during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is not large enough, and it's first come, first served. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected as part of the wheelchair or scooter, because federal regulations require they are disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a safe design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour before your flight, to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions, as well as other pertinent details about your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are made for safe and convenient travel. These chairs are designed to fold up and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and stowage. If you are planning to travel with the airline of your choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can help you plan your travel plans and provide you with the latest information on battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair for safety purposes and place it into a carryon bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is safely stowed in an upright position.
Based on your airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following information including your name address, address, phone number and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event that it is stolen or mishandled on your trip. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will allow you to remain in your chair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at two hours before the departure time you have scheduled to ensure the proper storage of your equipment is accomplished. If possible be there earlier than two hours before the time you plan to depart. This is especially crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This allows you to check in early and gives the airline representative plenty of time to help you stow your chair.
Before you travel and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage to pursue compensation from the airline in case of damages. You should also think about bringing cushions for your seats, so that the flight is as relaxing as possible for you. Seat cushions are especially important for flights that last more than an hour. They reduce the pressure on your skin and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, the process of boarding a plane can be a daunting prospect. But, with the right preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, traveling with a power chair is feasible.
Before you book your flight, talk to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best way to check into your seat, whether it is at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, it is recommended to arrive at least one hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to inspect your equipment and make sure that it will be stowed safely for your trip.
Based on the model of chair you own It could be necessary to disassemble it for transport. In this instance it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to assist the airline employees who handle your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair, such as the owner's manual or warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any accessories that can be removed prior click here to when you leave for the airport and also to ensure that all the controls are working properly.
When you arrive at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. Airlines are not allowed to charge you extra to store assistive devices, such as electric chairs. This is a wonderful benefit for people with disabilities, since it allows them to avoid unnecessary expenses.
A representative from the airline can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which can be able to fit into the aircraft aisle when the plane arrives. You will then be able to board the plane, and your wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as you can, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with right planning and following guidelines you can have fun exploring new places. 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 offers.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for those with mobility issues. If here you have a wheelchair or a scooter could make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's guidelines regarding bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to learn about their policies on power chairs, and to ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair for your flight, as provided you prepare it to travel. Some airlines require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding, here and others will require a physician's letter to allow you to fly with your power wheelchair. Some airlines may also demand that you take down the battery-powered part of your chair and then place it in a case that is safe.
Once you're at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours before the time of departure so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documents you need to the airport, including your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will speed up check-in process and help avoid confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
On arrival at the airline's ticket counter or gate, make certain to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Discuss your wheelchair and any other accessories you may need like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be placing your wheelchair in a separate cart or checking it for storage. If you're transferring to the plane using your electric wheelchair, try to make a direct flight which will minimize the number of times your equipment will be transferred between various locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment as checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging 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 prior to leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.