How A Weekly Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Project Can Change Your Life
How 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 aspects to be considered. Airport and airline staff will ask you numerous questions about your chair's dimensions, battery type and how it should be handled.
Make sure you have these details ready prior to your trip to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that meet air travel regulations.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are able to be safely transported and stowed on planes. The FAA will allow them to be used for use on flights, and they can be stored in the airplane as checked baggage. They can also navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration stripes roads that are muddy or brick. They may also be equipped with a patented drive system which allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter up to the gates for boarding. It is important to contact the airline prior to your departure to ensure they are aware of any specific needs and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate them. Some airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to your scheduled departure This is particularly important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. This space is limited and operates on the basis of first-come-first-serve. The federal regulations also demand that all batteries added to the system be checked by the scooter or wheelchair. They must be disconnected unless they are specifically designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require that you check-in an hour prior to your flight so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport staff with assembly/disassembly instructions and other helpful information regarding your mobility or power chair. scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to provide the most secure and comfortable method of travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold up and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling, and stowage. If you are planning to travel with the airline of your choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These experts can help you plan your travel itinerary and provide you with the latest information on battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety reasons and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that the battery is securely tucked away in a upright position.
Depending on the airline you use, you may need to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, address, your telephone 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 also want to think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will aid you in staying in your wheelchair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. Arriving earlier than this is even better if possible, especially during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and gives the representative of the airline plenty of time to help you stow your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair before you travel. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage in obtaining compensation for any damages from the airline. You should also think about bringing an extra cushion for your seat to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as possible for you. A seat cushion is especially important for flights that last more than an hour, since this will minimize the pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, the process of click here boarding a plane can be a daunting prospect. Air travel with a power chair is feasible with right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Contact an airline representative prior to making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best method to check-in your chair regardless of whether it's at the counter for tickets or the gate. In either case, arriving one hour prior to your flight is recommended. This gives the airline ample time to inspect your equipment and make sure that it will be safely towed to be ready for your trip.
Depending on your power chair, it may be necessary to disassemble the chair prior to it is transported. In this instance it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly hand to assist the airline employees who handle your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair, like the owner's manual as well as warranty information. It is also a good idea to powerchair wheelchair remove any accessories that can be removed prior to when you leave for the airport, and to make sure all of the controls are in working order.
Once you arrive at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the airplane. The airlines are not allowed to charging an additional cost to store assistive devices, such as power wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for people who have disabilities, as they can avoid costly expenses.
A representative from the airline can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which can be able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft once the plane lands. Then, you can disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the shortest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines, you can enjoy exploring new places. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you are not comfortable moving around in your chair, you'll never be able to enjoy the freedom that traveling affords.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for those who have mobility problems. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, however it is important to follow the policies of your airline regarding the transportation and storage of your chair on the airplane. Contact the airline in advance to find out their policy on power chairs, and to ask any questions.
Most airlines allow passengers to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight, so long as it's properly prepared for travel. Certain airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will require a doctor's letter prior to allowing you to fly with your power wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery-powered part of your chair, and then place it in a protective case.
Once you're more info at the airport, make sure you arrive at least two hours prior to your lightweight power chair departure time to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documentation you may require to the airport, like your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will make it easier for the check-in process and help avoid confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.
If you are at the ticket counter of your airline or at the gate, be sure to communicate your mobility requirements clearly. Explain the kind of wheelchair you're using and any necessary accessories like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be storing your wheelchair in a specific cart or checking it for storage. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book a direct flight to minimize the amount electric wheelchairs lightweight of times your equipment is moved between locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo compartment along with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. Take a picture of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.