What You Can Use A Weekly Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Project Can Change Your Life
What You Can Use A Weekly Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Project Can Change Your Life
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many things you should consider when traveling with powered chairs. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you a lot of questions about your chair's dimensions and battery type as well as how it should be handled.
Be sure to have these details in hand prior to you head to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that meet the requirements for air travel.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are able to be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA can approve them for air travel, and they can be kept under the plane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to maneuver on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration stripes, brick or muddy road. They could also be fitted with a unique drive system that permits them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the gate for boarding. However, it is essential to contact them prior to time to make sure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm that they are able to meet those needs. Certain airlines require that you arrive one hour prior to the departure time you have scheduled, which is important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. This space is limited and operates on a first-come, first-serve basis. They also require that any additional batteries be checked as part of the scooter or wheelchair since federal regulations require that they be disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a safe design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also request that you check in one hour before your flight, to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions and other helpful details about your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed for comfortable and safe travel. They can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can help you plan your travel itinerary and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide you with instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines require you to take the wheelchair's battery out of the way to ensure safety and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is safely stowed in a upright position.
Depending on the airline you fly with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, your address, your number, and the wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment if it gets lost or damaged during your travels. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will help you remain in your seat during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure to ensure proper equipment stowage. If you are able be there at least two hours earlier than your departure time. This is especially important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and gives the airline representative plenty of time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Before you leave and leave home, take a photograph of your wheelchair to be used as proof in the event that your wheelchair is damaged during your flight. This will give you the possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for any damages. You should also think about bringing a seat cushion with you so that your journey is as comfortable as it can be for you. Seat cushions are especially important when you travel for more than an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, getting on a plane is a daunting prospect. However, with proper preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, flying with a power chair is possible.
Speak to an airline representative before booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to get your seat at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour before your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it is properly and properly stored for your journey.
Based on the power chair you have, it may be necessary to disassemble the chair prior to it is transported. If this is the case, it's beneficial to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly in order to aid the staff of the airline handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any detachable accessories before you go to the airport and also to ensure that all the controls are in working order.
Once you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the airplane. Airlines are not allowed to charge you extra to store assistive devices, like electric chairs. This is a huge benefit for people with disabilities since it allows them to save money.
After the plane has landed, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit in the aisle of the aircraft. After disembarking, your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the shortest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with right planning and following the rules you can have fun exploring new places. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you are uncomfortable in your chair, you'll never take advantage of the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for those who have mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stress-inducing for you, but it is important to follow the policies of your airline regarding bringing and stowing your chair on the plane. If you're traveling with an electric chair, make sure to contact the airline prior to your travels to inquire about their policy and to get any questions answered.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair for your flight, so long as you prepare it correctly to travel. Some airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will need a doctor's letter prior to allowing you to travel with your powered wheelchair. Some airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered component of your wheelchair and place it in a case that is protected.
Arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to flight. It's important to bring any documentation, including your owner manual and any instructions for assembly or disassembly best electric wheelchairs of your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will help speed up the check-in process and can make sure that there is no confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
On arrival at the ticket counter or gate, make sure to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Be sure to describe the kind of wheelchair you own and any necessary accessories, such as cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or if it will be transferred to the aircraft with an adapted cart. If you're transferring to the plane using your electric wheelchair, try to book a direct flight, which will cut down on the number of times your equipment is moved between locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo compartment with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you extra for storing your scooter or wheelchair the same way they would with your luggage. Take a photo of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.