How Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Propelled To The Top Trend In Social Media
How Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Propelled To The Top Trend In Social Media
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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are several things to consider. The staff at the airport and at the airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to handle it.
Make sure you have all of this information at hand before you leave for the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with the air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for use on flights, and they can be stowed under the plane as checked baggage. They will also be able navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration stripes, brick or muddy road. They may also be equipped with a drive system that is patent-pending that permits them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the boarding gate. It is important to call the airline ahead of time to ensure they are aware of any special needs and to confirm that they are able to meet them. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of your scheduled departure, which is especially important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their aircrafts to allow the stowage and storage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is not large enough, and it's first come, first served. They also require that any additional batteries be checked as part of the scooter or wheelchair, since federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless the chair is equipped with a safe design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also request that you check in an hour prior to your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request that you complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful information regarding your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to offer an efficient and safe way to travel. These electric chairs can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline guidelines for battery size handling, stowage, and handling. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These experts can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety and then place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals aren't exposed, and it is stowed upright.
Based on your airline depending on your airline, you might be required to label your wheelchair with the following details including your name, address, phone number and model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it should become lost or mishandled during your trip. You may also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that help you remain in your wheelchair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
You should arrive at the airport 2 hours prior to your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. If possible be there earlier than two hours before the time you plan to depart. This is particularly important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This allows you to check in early and allows the representative of the airline plenty of time to help you stow your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair prior to traveling. This can be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage in obtaining compensation for any damages from the airline. Consider bringing along an extra cushion for your seat to make your flight as comfortable as you possibly can. Seat cushions are especially important for flights lasting over an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin, and will prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft 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 compliance with rules and regulations.
Talk to an airline representative prior to booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best method to check into your seat regardless of whether it's at the ticket counter or the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour prior to your flight is suggested. This gives the airline ample time to examine your equipment and make sure that it will be safely towed for your journey.
Based on the model of chair you own, it may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. In this case, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on the go to help airline employees who handle your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any detachable items prior to you go to the airport and to ensure all controls are in working order.
When you arrive at the airport the electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and stowed. The airlines aren't allowed to charging an additional cost to store assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for those with disabilities as it allows them to avoid unnecessary costs.
Once the plane is in the air in the air, a representative from the airline will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to one that is able to slide down the aircraft aisle. You will then be able to get off the plane and your wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as you can, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
Traveling with an electric chair can be daunting, but with careful planning and adhering to guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the thrill of exploring new places with ease. It is crucial to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to enjoy the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be very stressful for those with mobility issues. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the experience less stressful for you, however it is important to follow your airline's policies for bringing and stowing your chair on board the airplane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact the airline prior to your departure to inquire about their policy and ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair for your flight, as provided you prepare it for travel. Some airlines may require you to charge the batteries prior to boarding and some may require you to have a doctor's recommendation on file prior to being able to allow you to fly with your power chair. Some airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered part of your chair and put it inside a protective case.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours before your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your departure. Bring any documentation you may need 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 about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the ticket counter or gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Explain your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you may need for example, seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage or the possibility of transferring it to the aircraft using a specialized cart. If you're transferring to the plane using your electric wheelchair, make sure to make a direct flight which will cut down on the number of times your equipment attendant controlled electric wheelchair is moved between locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment as checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra to store your scooter or wheelchair like they do with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, you must take a picture of it before you leave the airport and immediately notify the airline.