20 Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Websites Taking The Internet By Storm
20 Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Websites Taking The Internet By Storm
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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
If you are traveling in a powered wheelchair, there are a few things to take into consideration. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you a lot of questions regarding your chair's dimensions, battery type and how it should be handled.
Make sure you have this information at hand before you travel to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that meet the requirements for air travel.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are able to be safely transported and stowed on planes. They will typically have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel. They can be tucked under the plane as checked luggage. They will also be able maneuver on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration stripes brick or muddy road. They may also have a patent-pending power drive system that enables them to move in tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter until the gate for boarding. However, it is essential to contact them prior to time to make sure they are aware of your requirements and confirm that they can meet those needs. Certain airlines require you to be at least one hour prior to your departure time, which is important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. This space is limited and operated on a first-come, first-serve basis. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected as part of the scooter or wheelchair as federal regulations require that they be disconnected from the device unless it is equipped with an effective design to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to bringing an electric scooter, or wheelchair on their flights. They also require to check-in at least an hour prior to your flight time so that they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain details on assembly and disassembly as well as other useful information about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to offer an efficient and safe way to travel. These power chairs can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines for battery size and handling, as well as stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can help you plan your itinerary and provide you with the most up-to-date details regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your chair for safety purposes and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals aren't exposed, and it is stored upright.
Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, your address, your phone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will help airport and airline personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment in case it gets lost or mishandled during your trip. You might also look into purchasing slings from the 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 to ensure proper equipment storage. Being earlier than that is even better especially during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This allows you to check in earlier and gives plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you in stowing your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair prior to travel. This can be used as proof in the event that your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you the ability to seek compensation from the airline for damages. You should consider bringing cushions to make the trip as comfortable as possible. Seat cushions are particularly important for flights lasting over an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin preventing soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline may be a daunting task. However, with proper preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, traveling with your power chair is possible.
Contact an airline representative prior to making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the best direction, no matter if you prefer to get your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour prior to your flight is recommended. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure that it's safely stored to be ready for your trip.
Based on the model of chair you own It may be necessary to disassemble it for transport. In this situation it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the table to aid airline personnel who will handle your chair. It is also recommended to attach any safety and maintenance information to your chair, such as the owner's manual or warranty information. It is also recommended to remove any accessories that are removable and check that all carbon fibre electric wheelchair controls are functioning before you depart for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport the electric wheelchair will be loaded and stored in the cargo hold of the airplane. The airlines are not allowed to charging an additional cost to store assistive devices like power wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for those with disabilities since it allows them to avoid costly expenses.
An airline employee will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit down the aisle of the aircraft when the plane arrives. You can then disembark and your wheelchair is returned to you at the nearest possible location to the aircraft door, either at the jetbridge or at the gate.
A trip with an electric wheelchair can seem daunting, but with careful planning and adhering to guidelines, you can be able to experience the joy of exploring new destinations with ease. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you're not comfortable in your chair, you'll not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for passengers who have mobility problems. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the experience less stress-inducing for you, but it's important to adhere to the policies of your airline regarding the transportation and storage of your chair on the plane. Contact the airline ahead of time to learn about their policies on power chairs, and to inquire about any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, so long as you prepare it properly to travel. Certain airlines may require you to charge the batteries before boarding, and some will need to have a doctor's note on file prior to being able to allow you to fly using your power chair. Certain airlines may also require you to disassemble the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair and place it inside a protective case.
When you arrive at the airport, make sure to arrive at least two hours before the time of departure so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. Bring any documents you require to the airport, including your manual or any directions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
On arrival at the ticket counter or gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Discuss your wheelchair and any other accessories you might require for example, seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be placing your wheelchair in a specific cart or examining it for stowage. If you're taking a transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, make sure to make a direct flight which will cut down on the amount of times your equipment will be moved between different locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo compartment along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for storing a wheelchair or scooter. Take a photograph of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.