Why Adding A Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair To Your Life Can Make All The A Difference
Why Adding A Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair To Your Life Can Make All The A Difference
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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are several things to take into consideration. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you a lot of questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have all of these details in hand prior to you leave for the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and stowed safely on planes. They usually have an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stored under the plane as checked luggage. Additionally they'll be able to navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips, brick or roads that are muddy. They could also be fitted with a drive system that is patent-pending that permits them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the gate to board. It is important to contact the airline prior to your departure to make sure they are aware of any special needs and to confirm that they can meet these requirements. Certain airlines require you to be at least an hour before your departure time, which is important during busy travel periods.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one wheelchair or mobility device. 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 wheelchair or scooter. They must be disconnected unless they are specifically designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also request that you check-in an hour before your flight to ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. In addition, they ask to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions as well as other useful details about your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to provide an efficient and safe way to travel. These power chairs can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines for battery size and handling, as well as stowage. If you plan to travel with the airline of your choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can help you plan your travel itinerary and provide you with the latest information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals aren't exposed, and that it is safely stowed upright.
Depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following information: your name address, address, phone number and model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment in case it gets lost or mishandled during your trip. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will assist you in staying in your seat during transfers with airport personnel as well as airline personnel.
You should always arrive at the airport at two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure the proper stowage of your equipment is completed. Arriving earlier than this is even better particularly during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and provides plenty of time for the airline representative to assist you in stowing your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair prior to traveling. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for damages. It is also advisable to bring a seat cushion with you to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as it can be for you. Seat cushions are particularly 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. However, with proper preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, air travel using your electric chair is feasible.
Contact an airline representative prior to booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you in the best direction, whether you prefer to get your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, it is advised to arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This gives the airline ample time to inspect your equipment and ensure it will be safely towed for your journey.
Based on the power chair you have, it may be necessary to disassemble it prior to transportation. If this is the case, it is important to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to help the staff of the airline handling your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety or maintenance bariatric electric wheelchair uk information to your chair, like the owner's manual or warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any accessories that can be removed prior to when you travel to the airport, and to make sure all the controls are in working order.
When you arrive at an airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and stowed. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra to store assistive devices, such as electric chairs. This is an excellent benefit for those with disabilities because it can help them save money.
A representative from the airline can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can be able to fit into the aircraft aisle when the plane lands. You will then be able to disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as you can or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It might be difficult to travel with an electric chair, but with right planning and following guidelines, you can enjoy exploring new destinations. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you're uncomfortable in your chair, you will not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that traveling offers.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for people who have mobility issues. If you have mobility scooters or wheelchairs, it can make your trip more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's policies regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to find out their policy regarding power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to take a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight as long as it's properly prepared for travel. Some airlines might require you to recharge the batteries before boarding, and some may require you to have a medical note on file before they will allow you to fly with your motorized chair. Some airlines will also require you to take apart the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair get more info and place it in a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, make sure you arrive at least two hours before your scheduled departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documentation you might need to the airport, including your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will help speed up the process of checking in and will help avoid confusion about the policies click here of your airline's click here wheelchairs.
When you reach the airline ticket counter or at the gate, be sure to explain your mobility needs clearly. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any accessories you may need for example, sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they'll be examining your wheelchair for stowage or the possibility of transferring it to the aircraft with a specialized cart. If you're transferring check here from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book a direct flight to minimize the number of times your device is moved between different locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment along with your checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. Take a photograph of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.