How Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Became The Top Trend On Social Media
How Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Became The Top Trend On Social Media
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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few things you should consider when traveling with a powered chair. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you many questions regarding the dimensions of your chair, battery type and how it should be handled.
Make sure you have all of this information in your possession prior to you leave for the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with the regulations for air travel.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stored on planes. They will typically have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel and can be tucked under the plane as checked baggage. Furthermore they'll be able to navigate on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or muddy roads. They could also be equipped with a patented power drive system that allows them to move in tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the boarding gates. It is however important to contact them ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet your needs. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour ahead of your departure time which is crucial during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. The space is limited and on a first-come, first-serve basis. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair, as federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless the chair is equipped with an effective design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before bringing electric wheelchairs or scooters on their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour before your flight so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful information about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed for safe and convenient travel. These power chairs are made to fold and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist in preparing your itinerary and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety purposes and place it into a carryon bag. This is to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is safely stowed in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you use depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, address, your telephone number, and your wheelchair model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment in case it gets lost or mishandled during your trip. You may also want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that aid you in staying in your wheelchair when you transfer with airport and airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport 2 hours before your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. If you can be there at least two hours earlier than your departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This lets you check in early and provides plenty of time for the airline representative to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Before you leave to another destination, take a photo of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for any damages. It is also advisable to bring a seat cushion with you to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Seat cushions are especially important for flights lasting over an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.
Check-In
The procedure of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is accepted by the airline can be daunting. However, with proper preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, air travel with a power chair is possible.
Speak to an airline representative before making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They will be able to guide you in the best direction, whether you prefer to check-in your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it is advised to arrive at least one hour prior to your flight. This gives the airline ample time to examine your equipment and ensure it will be safely towed to be ready for your trip.
Depending on your power chair It could be necessary to disassemble the chair prior to transport. In this instance it's a good idea to have instructions for get more info assembly and disassembly in hand to assist the airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. You should also remove any removable accessories and ensure whether all controls function before leaving for the airport.
Once you arrive at an airport the electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging an additional cost to store assistive devices, like power wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for those who have disabilities, as it allows them to save money.
After the plane has landed at the airport, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit into the aisle of the aircraft. You click here will then be able to get off the plane and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as is possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with the right planning and following the rules you will be able to enjoy exploring new places. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you're not comfortable moving around in your chair, you will never enjoy the freedom that traveling offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be extremely stressful for people with mobility issues. If you're traveling with a wheelchair or a scooter could make your experience more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow the airline's guidelines regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to find out their policy on power chairs, and to ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring an electric chair on your flight, so provided you prepare it to travel. Some airlines require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will require a physician's letter prior to allowing you to travel with your powered wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery-powered portion of your chair and place it in website a case that is safe.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to departure. Bring any documentation you might require to the airport, including your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in process and can prevent any confusion regarding your airline's wheelchair policies.
When you arrive at the airline ticket counter or gate, make sure you explain your mobility needs clearly. Provide a description of your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you may require for example, sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether they will be storing your wheelchair in a separate cart or checking it for storage. 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 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 prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of your scooter or wheelchair the same way they would with your luggage. Take a picture of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.