15 Shocking Facts About Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair You've Never Seen
15 Shocking Facts About Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair You've Never Seen
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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 airport staff and airline personnel will ask you many questions regarding your chair's dimensions and battery type as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have these details prepared before you travel to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that meet the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stowed on planes. The FAA will approve them for travel on planes, and they can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. In addition, they will be able to maneuver on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips, brick or muddy roads. They may also have a patent-pending power drive system that allows them to navigate in tight spaces, or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the gates for boarding. It is however important 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 needs. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour ahead of your scheduled departure, which is especially important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is not large enough, and it's first come, first serve. The federal regulations also require that all batteries added to the system be checked with the scooter or wheelchair. They must be removed unless they are specifically designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before bringing electric wheelchairs or scooters on their flights. They also request that you check in an hour before your flight, to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other details about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to offer an efficient and safe method of travel. These chairs are designed to fold up and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can assist you in preparing your itinerary and give you the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines ask that you remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that the battery is securely tucked away in a upright position.
Based on your airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following details such as your name, 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 lost or mishandled during your journey. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will assist you in staying in your seat during transfers with airport personnel and airline personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. If you can be there earlier than two hours prior to your scheduled departure time. This is particularly crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This lets you check in early and provides plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you travel, take a picture of your wheelchair to prove in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for any damages from the airline. Consider bringing along here a seat cushion to make the trip as comfortable as you possibly can. Cushions for seats are essential attendant controlled electric wheelchair for flights lasting over an hour. They will reduce pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.
Check-In
For those who travel with an approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane could be a daunting prospect. However, with the proper preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, flying with a power chair is attainable.
Talk to an airline representative prior to making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best way to check into your seat whether at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, it is recommended that you arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This gives the airline ample time to examine your equipment and ensure it will be safely towed for your trip.
Depending on the model of your power chair It could be necessary for you to disassemble the chair prior to transportation. In this situation it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the table to aid airline personnel who will handle your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable items prior to you travel to the airport, and to make sure all of the controls are working properly.
When you arrive at the airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging you an additional fee to stow assistive devices like electric wheelchairs. This is a wonderful benefit for those with disabilities since it allows them to avoid costly expenses.
A representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that will fit on the aircraft aisle when the plane lands. You will then be able to board the plane, and your power wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as possible in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
Traveling with an electric chair can be intimidating, but website with proper planning and adhering to guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new destinations easily. The most important thing to remember is that if uncomfortable in your chair, you will never enjoy the freedom that traveling provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stressful for you, however it's essential to follow the guidelines of your airline for the transportation and storage of your chair on board the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact your airline prior to your travels to inquire about their policies and ask any questions.
Most airlines allow you to take an electric wheelchair on your flight as long as it's properly prepared for travel. Certain airlines may require you to charge the batteries before boarding, and some will require you to have a medical note on file before they will allow you to fly using your motorized chair. Some airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair, and place it in an enclosure that is protected.
Once you're at the airport, be sure you arrive at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, including your owner manual and any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up check-in process and avoid confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the counter for tickets or gate, make sure to clearly communicate your mobility requirements. Explain the kind of wheelchair you own and any accessories you require, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage, or the possibility of transferring it to the plane using an adapted cart. If you're going to transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, try to make a direct flight which will cut down on the number of times your equipment will be moved between various locations.
Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo handicap chair electric compartment with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for the storage of a wheelchair or more info scooter. If your equipment is damaged, make sure you take a photograph before you leave the airport and immediately notify the airline.