10 Healthy Habits For A Healthy Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
10 Healthy Habits For A Healthy Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are many aspects to be considered. The airport staff and at the airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions and battery type, as well as how to use it.
Make sure you have this information prepared before you travel to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and stowed safely on planes. The FAA will approve them for air travel and they can be stowed under the plane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to maneuver on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration stripes roads that are muddy or brick. They could also be fitted with a drive system that is patent-pending which allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter until the gate to board. It is however important to contact them prior to time to ensure that they are aware of your needs and to confirm that they are able to meet those requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour ahead of your scheduled departure This is particularly important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes that allows for the stowage and storage of one wheelchair or mobility scooter. This space is limited and operates on an initial-come first-serve basis. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair, since federal regulations require that they be disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with a safe design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to bringing an electric wheelchair or scooter aboard their flights. They also request to check-in one hour prior to your flight to ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. In addition, they ask to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions as well as other useful details about your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are made for secure and comfortable travel. These power chairs are made to fold up and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can help you plan your travel itinerary and provide you with the latest information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines will require you to remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and that the battery is secured in a straight position.
Depending on the airline you use depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, address, your telephone number, and the wheelchair model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it gets lost or damaged during your trip. You may also want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which help you remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airport and airline personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure proper stowage of your equipment is completed. Arriving earlier than this is even better if possible, especially during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This lets you check in earlier and gives ample time for the airline representative to assist you with stowing your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair before you travel. This can be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage in pursuing compensation for damages from the airline. You should also think about bringing an extra cushion for your seat to ensure that your flight is as relaxing as possible for you. A seat cushion is essential for flights that will last longer than an hour, because this will minimize pressure on your skin and reduce soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline may be a daunting task. Traveling with a power chair is possible with the right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Before booking your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the best direction, no matter if you prefer to check-in your seat at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, it is recommended to arrive at least one hour before your flight. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it is properly stowed for your journey.
Depending on the kind of chair you own, it may be required to disassemble it prior to transport. If this is the case, it's helpful to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions on hand to help the staff of the airline handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any accessories that can be removed prior to when you go to the airport and to ensure 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 aircraft. The airlines aren't allowed to charging you a cost to store assistive devices, such as power wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for people who have disabilities, as it allows them to avoid costly expenses.
Once the plane is in the air, an airline employee will be capable of transferring you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft. After disembarking, your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the shortest possible location to the door of the aircraft or at the jetbridge or the gate.
The idea of using an electric chair can be daunting, but with the right planning and adhering to guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the thrill of exploring new places without difficulty. The most important thing to remember is that if not comfortable in your chair, you'll not be able to fully take advantage of the freedom that travel affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be very stressful for people with mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stress-inducing for you, but it's essential to follow the policies of your airline regarding the transportation and storage of your chair on the airplane. Contact the airline ahead of time to inquire about their policy on power chairs, and to ask any questions.
Most airlines will allow you to take a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight as long as it's properly prepared for travel. Certain airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a physician's letter before they will allow you to travel with your power wheelchair. Some airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery-powered part of your chair and then place it in a case that is safe.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to your scheduled departure so that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to flight. Bring any documentation you might require to the airport, like your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will help speed up the process of checking in and will make sure that there is no confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.
When you reach the airline ticket counter or gate, make sure to communicate your mobility off road electric wheelchair requirements clearly. Explain the type of wheelchair you have and any necessary accessories like cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage or whether it will be transported to the aircraft with a specialized cart. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, you should book an direct flight to cut down on the amount of times your equipment is moved between different locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo area along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. Take a photograph of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.