A Brief History Of Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair In 10 Milestones
A Brief History Of Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair In 10 Milestones
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many things to consider when traveling with powered chairs. The staff at the airport and the airline will inquire about your chair, its dimensions and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information ready prior to your trip to the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that comply with the regulations for air travel.
What is an approved electric wheelchair for airlines?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be carried and stowed securely on airplanes. They will typically have a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be tucked under the plane as checked baggage. They will also be able navigate on rough surfaces such as deceleration stripes, gravel, brick or muddy road. They could also have a patented power drive system that enables them to navigate 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 however important to contact them ahead of time to make sure they are aware of your needs and to confirm they can meet those needs. Certain airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to your scheduled departure, which is especially important during busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is limited and operated on a first-come, first-serve basis. Federal regulations also require that all batteries added to the system be checked by the scooter or wheelchair. They must be disconnected unless they are specifically designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour prior to your flight so that they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request to fill out their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions as well as other useful information regarding your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to provide the most secure and comfortable way to travel. These chairs are designed to fold, and they conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your preferred airline prior to your trip to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can assist you in planning your travel plans and provide you with the latest details regarding battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety purposes and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is secured in a upright position.
Depending on your airline or airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following information including your name address, address, phone number and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event that it is lost or mishandled on your trip. You may want to buy aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to help you remain in your seat during transfers with airport personnel and airline personnel.
You should always arrive at at two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure the proper storage of your equipment is done. Arriving earlier than this is even better if possible particularly during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This lets you check-in early and allows the airline representative plenty of time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair before you travel. This can be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage in obtaining compensation for damages from the airline. You should also consider bringing cushions for your seats, so that the flight is as comfortable as possible for you. A seat cushion is essential when you travel for over an hour, as it reduces pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, getting on a plane could be an overwhelming experience. However, with proper preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, air travel using your electric chair is possible.
Before you book your flight, speak to an airline representative to find out more about their policies wheelchair electric lightweight and procedures. They will be able to guide you in the best direction, no matter if you prefer to check-in your seat at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it's recommended that you arrive at least one hour before your flight. This gives the airline ample time to inspect your equipment and ensure it will be safely towed for your journey.
Depending on the kind of chair you own, it may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. In this instance, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to assist the airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any accessories that can be removed prior to when you go to the airport and to ensure all controls are in working order.
Once you are at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the airplane. The airlines aren't allowed to charging an additional cost to store assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for people with disabilities, because it can help them avoid unnecessary expenses.
After the plane has landed at the airport, an airline employee will be able to transfer you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to fit into the aisle of the aircraft. 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.
It may seem daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new destinations. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if not comfortable moving around in your chair, you'll never take advantage of the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for those with mobility problems. A wheelchair or a scooter can make the trip less stress-inducing 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 inquire about their policy on power chairs and to ask any questions.
Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair for your flight, so provided you prepare it to travel. Some airlines may require you to recharge the batteries before boarding, and some will require you to have a medical note in order to allow you to fly using your power chair. Certain airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair and place it in a case that is protected.
Once you're at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours before your departure time to allow your airline enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. Bring any documentation you might need to the airport, such as your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will speed up check-in and prevent confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
Upon arriving at the counter for tickets or gate, make sure to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Explain your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you may need, such as seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage or the possibility of transferring it to the aircraft using an adapted cart. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book a direct flight to minimize the number of times your device is moved between locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment along with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment is damaged, you must take a picture of it prior to leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.