How Can A Weekly Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Project Can Change Your Life
How Can A Weekly Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Project Can Change Your Life
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are several things to consider. The airport staff and at the airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have all of this information in your possession prior to you head to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that comply with the requirements for air travel.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be carried and stowed safely on airplanes. The FAA will allow them to be used for air travel and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. They will also be able navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration stripes, roads that are muddy or brick. They could also have an exclusive power drive system that permits them to move in tight spaces or lifts.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the boarding gates. However, it is important to contact them prior to time to make sure they are aware of your needs and to confirm they can meet your needs. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour before the time of departure, which is especially important during busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. This space is limited and operated on a first-come, first-serve basis. The federal regulations also require that any additional batteries be checked with the wheelchair or scooter. They must be disconnected unless they are specifically designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when taking an electric wheelchair or scooter aboard their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour prior to your flight to ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful information about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure comfortable and safe travel. These chairs are designed to fold up and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling, and stowage. If you're planning to fly with your airline of preference, you should contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist you in planning your trip and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines will require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and that the battery is safely stowed in a straight position.
Depending on the airline you use, you may need to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, your address, your number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it is stolen or mishandled on your trip. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will allow you to remain in your seat during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport 2 hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. If possible be there earlier than two hours before your scheduled departure time. This is especially crucial during busy holiday times or rush hour. This lets you check-in early and allows the airline representative ample time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you leave and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you the ability to seek compensation from the airline for any damages. You should also consider bringing cushions for your seats to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as possible for you. The use of a cushion for your seat is particularly important when you travel for longer than an hour, because it will reduce 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 daunting. Air travel with a power chair is possible with the right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Before you book your flight, talk to an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They'll be able to help you navigate in the right direction, regardless of whether you prefer to make your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour before your flight is suggested. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and ensure that it will be stowed safely for your trip.
Based on the power chair you have It could be necessary to disassemble it prior to transportation. In this instance, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the go to help airline personnel handling your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair, such as the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any accessories that can be removed prior to when you go to the airport and also to ensure that all of the controls are in working order.
Once you are at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the airplane. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra fees for the stowing of assistive devices such as power chairs. This is a great benefit for those with disabilities as they can save money.
A representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit down the aisle of the aircraft once the plane lands. You can then disembark and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the shortest possible location to the aircraft door, either at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
It might be difficult to travel with an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new places. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you're uncomfortable in your chair, you will never be able to enjoy the freedom that traveling provides.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for those who have mobility issues. If you're traveling with mobility scooters or wheelchairs, it can make your experience more enjoyable. However, it's essential to follow the airline's policies regarding bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact the airline prior to your departure to inquire about their policies and to get any questions answered.
Many airlines will allow passengers to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight, so provided it's prepared for travel. Some airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will need a doctor's letter before they will allow you to fly with your electric wheelchair. Some airlines will also require you to take apart the battery-powered portion of your chair and then place it in a case that is protected.
Once you're at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours before the time of departure to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. Bring any documentation you might require to the airport, like your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will speed up check-in and prevent confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you reach the ticket counter of your airline or gate, make sure to communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Provide a description of your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you might require for example, seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be storing your wheelchair in a specific cart or examining it for stowage. If you're going to transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to take a direct flight which will cut down on read more the amount of times your equipment will be moved between locations.
Once your wheelchair is 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 extra fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. Take a picture of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.