8 Tips To Increase Your Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Game
8 Tips To Increase Your Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Game
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many things to consider when traveling with a powered chair. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you numerous questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information prepared before you travel to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that comply with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines can be safely transported and stowed on planes. They will typically have a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stored under the plane as checked luggage. Additionally, they will be able to move on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips bricks, or roads that are muddy. They could also have a patented power drive system that allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the boarding gates. However, it is important to contact them prior to time to ensure they are aware of your needs and confirm that they can meet those requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour before your departure time This is particularly important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes that allows for the stowage of a wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is limited and operates on the basis of first-come-first-serve. Federal regulations also require that all extra batteries be checked by the wheelchair or scooter. They must be removed unless they are specifically designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask that you check in one hour prior to 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 representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions and other helpful information about your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to provide an efficient and safe way to travel. These chairs are designed to fold up and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling, and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist in planning your trip and give you the most current information on 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 wheelchair to ensure safety. You can then put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals aren't exposed, and it is stowed upright.
Depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following information including your name, address, phone number, and model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it is lost or damaged during your travels. You may also consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which aid you in staying in your wheelchair when you transfer with airport and airline personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. Being earlier than that is even better if possible especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This lets you check-in early and allows the representative of the airline plenty of time to help you stow your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair prior to traveling. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for damages. Consider bringing along cushions to make the trip as comfortable as you can. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights lasting over an hour. They will reduce pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.
Check-In
The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be a daunting task. However, with the proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, air travel using your electric chair is attainable.
Speak to an airline representative before making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best way to check-in your chair regardless of whether it's at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it is recommended to arrive at least one hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure it is safely and properly stored for your journey.
Depending on the type of power chair you own It may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. In this situation it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in hand to assist the airline personnel handling your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair, including the owner's manual as well as warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any accessories that can be removed prior to when you travel to the airport and to ensure all the controls are functioning properly.
Once you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the airplane. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you a fee to stow assistive devices, like power wheelchairs. This is a wonderful benefit for those with disabilities because it can help them avoid unnecessary expenses.
When the plane lands at the airport, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to one that can fit down the aircraft aisle. You can then disembark and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the closest possible location to the door of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or the gate.
The idea of using an electric chair can be daunting, but with careful planning and adherence to guidelines, it is possible to experience the joy of exploring new places easily. It is essential to keep in mind that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to enjoy the freedom it affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for people with mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, but it is important to follow the policies of your airline regarding transporting and stowing your chair on board the airplane. Contact the airline ahead of time to find out their policy regarding power chairs and to ask any questions.
Most airlines allow you to bring an electric chair on your flight, as that you prepare it for travel. Some airlines require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and others will require a physician's letter to allow you to travel with your outdoor electric wheelchair electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also demand that you remove the battery powered portion of your chair and then place it in a case that is safe.
Get to the airport at minimum two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your departure. Bring any documentation you may require to the airport, including your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will make it easier for the process of checking in and will help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
If you are at the airline ticket counter or gate, make sure you explain your mobility needs clearly. Explain the kind of wheelchair you own and any necessary accessories, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether they will be keeping your wheelchair in a special cart or checking it for stowage. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book an express flight to reduce the number of times your device is moved between locations.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment along with your checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging extra fees for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. If your equipment arrives damaged, you must take a picture of it prior to leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.