What Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Should Be Your Next Big Obsession
What Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Should Be Your Next Big Obsession
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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are several aspects to be considered. The staff at the airport and the airline will inquire about the dimensions of your chair, battery type, and how to use it.
Make sure you have these details ready before you go to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that meet air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are able to be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA can approve them for use on flights and they can be stowed under the plane as checked baggage. Additionally, they will be able to navigate on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips, brick or roads that are muddy. They may also be equipped with a patented drive system that permits them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the boarding gates. It is important to call the airline ahead of time to make sure they are aware of any specific needs and confirm that they will be able to accommodate them. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour ahead of the time of 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 of a mobility scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited, and it's first come, first served. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected in conjunction with the wheelchair or scooter, since federal regulations require that they are disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a secure design to stop 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 an hour prior to your flight so that they can ensure proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other information about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to offer the most secure and comfortable way to travel. They can be folded and comply with airline guidelines for battery size handling, stowage, and handling. If you plan to fly with your airline of choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety purposes and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is secured in an upright position.
Depending on the airline you fly with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, your address, your phone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it is stolen or mishandled during your journey. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will allow you to remain in your seat during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. If you can, arrive earlier than two hours prior to the time you plan to depart. This is especially important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This lets you check in earlier and gives plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you with stowing your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair prior to travel. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for damages. You should consider bringing a seat cushion to make the flight as comfortable as you can. A seat cushion is especially important when you travel for longer than an hour, because it reduces the pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those who travel with an airline approved electric wheelchair, boarding a plane can be a daunting prospect. However, with proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, air travel using your electric chair is attainable.
Before you book your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They will be able to guide you in the right direction, whether you prefer to make your seat at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour before your flight is suggested. This allows the airline plenty of time to inspect your equipment and make sure that it will be safely towed to be ready for your trip.
Depending on the type of chair you own, it may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it is beneficial to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions in order to aid the staff of the airline handling your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair, like the owner's manual or warranty information. It is also recommended to remove any removable accessories and make sure that all controls are functioning before you depart for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the plane. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra fees for stowing assistive devices like electric chairs. This is a great benefit for those with disabilities since it allows them to save money.
Once the plane is in the air at the airport, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to fit down the aircraft aisle. Then, you will be able to get off the plane and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you as close to the airplane door as is possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric wheelchair can seem intimidating, but with proper planning and adhering to the guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the pleasure of exploring new destinations with ease. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if not comfortable in your chair, you'll never be able to enjoy the bariatric electric wheelchair uk freedom that travel affords.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for those with mobility issues. If you're using an electric or wheelchair could make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it's important that you follow the airline's policies regarding bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. Contact the airline ahead of time to inquire about their policy regarding power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Many airlines will allow passengers to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight as provided it's prepared for travel. Some airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will require a physician's letter prior to allowing you to fly with your electric wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair and place it in a protective case.
When you arrive at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. Bring any documentation you may need to the airport, including your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will speed up check-in process and avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
Upon arriving at the airline's ticket counter or gate, make certain to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Provide the kind of wheelchair you're using and any necessary accessories, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be keeping your wheelchair in a special cart or checking it for storage. If you're transferring to the plane with your electric wheelchair, try to book a direct flight, which will cut down on the number of times that your equipment will be transferred 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 scooter or wheelchair. Take a photo of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.