Why Adding Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair To Your Life Will Make All The Different
Why Adding Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair To Your Life Will Make All The Different
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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are several aspects to take into consideration when traveling with an electric chair. The airport staff and airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions and battery type, as well as how to use it.
Make sure you have all of these details in hand prior to you travel to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that are compliant with the requirements for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are able to be safely transported and stored on planes. They will typically have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel and can be stowed underneath the plane as checked baggage. In addition they'll be able to maneuver on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips, brick or roads that are muddy. They could also be equipped with a patent-pending power drive system that allows them to maneuver in tight spaces or lifts.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the gates for boarding. It is however important to contact them prior to time to ensure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm they can meet your needs. Some airlines require that you arrive one hour prior to your departure time, which is important during busy travel periods.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their aircrafts to allow the stowage and storage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited, and it's first come, first served. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair, because federal regulations require they are disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with a safe design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when bringing an electric wheelchair or scooter on their flights. They also ask that you check in an hour prior to your flight to ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport representatives can get details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful information regarding your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to offer the most secure and comfortable method of travel. They can be folded and comply with airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and stowage. If you're planning to travel with your airline of choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These representatives can assist you in planning your travel plans and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines will require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety and put 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 straight position.
Based on your airline, you may be required to label your wheelchair with the following information such as your name address, number and model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it gets lost or damaged during your travels. You might also think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, that help you remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airline and airport personnel.
You should always arrive at at minimum two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure the proper stowage of your equipment is accomplished. If you can you can arrive earlier than two hours before the time you plan to depart. This is particularly important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and allows the representative of the airline plenty of time to assist you electric power chair in stowing your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair prior to traveling. This serves as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for the damages from the airline. Consider bringing along an extra cushion for your seat to make the trip as comfortable as possible. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights lasting over an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin, making it less prone to soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that is accepted by the airline can be a daunting task. Traveling with a power chair is possible with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Talk to an airline representative prior to making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can assist you in the best way to check-in your chair, whether it is at the counter for tickets or the gate. In either case, it is recommended that you arrive at least one hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to check your equipment and ensure it will be safely towed to be ready for your trip.
Based on the model of chair you own It could be required to disassemble it prior to transport. In this case, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to assist the airline personnel handling your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety or maintenance information to your chair, such as the owner's manual as well as warranty information. It is also recommended to take off any removable items and make sure whether all controls function before you depart for the airport.
Once you arrive at an airport the electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and then stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge you extra for stowing assistive devices such as electric chairs. This is a wonderful benefit for people with disabilities, as it helps them avoid costly expenses.
When the plane lands, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to one that is able to slide down the aircraft powerchair wheelchair aisle. Then, you will be able to disembark, and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as you can or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
Traveling with an get more info electric wheelchair can seem daunting, but with the right planning and adherence to guidelines, it is possible to experience the joy of exploring new places easily. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you're uncomfortable in your chair, you'll never be able to take advantage of the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be very stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stressful for you, but it is important to follow your airline's policies for transporting and stowing your chair on the plane. Contact the airline prior to departure to learn about their policies regarding power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your trip as provided it's prepared for travel. Some airlines require that you charge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will require a doctor's letter top rated electric wheelchairs to more info allow you to fly with your electric wheelchair. Some airlines may also require you to remove the battery-powered portion of your chair and put it inside a protective case.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your departure. It's recommended to bring any documentation, including your owner manual and any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will help speed up the process of checking in and will prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the ticket counter or gate, make certain to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Provide the kind of wheelchair you're using and any other accessories you may require, such as seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be storing your wheelchair in a special cart or examining it for storage. If you're transferring to the plane with your electric wheelchair, you should try to take a direct flight which will minimize the number of times your equipment will be moved between various locations.
When your wheelchair is loaded in the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment as checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you extra for storing your wheelchair or scooter, just as they would with your luggage. Take a photograph of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.