The Most Popular Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Is Gurus. 3 Things
The Most Popular Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Is Gurus. 3 Things
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are a few things you should consider when traveling with an electric chair. The staff at the airport and the airline will inquire about the dimensions of your chair, battery type, and how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information in your possession prior to you travel to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that comply with air travel regulations.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines can be safely transported and stowed on planes. The FAA can approve them for use on flights, and they can be stored in the airplane as checked baggage. They will also be able move on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration stripes brick or muddy road. They could also be fitted with a drive system that is patent-pending that permits them to maneuver in tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the boarding gate. It is important to contact the airline prior to your departure to ensure they are aware of any special needs and to confirm that they can meet them. Some airlines require you to arrive an hour before your departure time which is essential in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. This space is limited and it's first come, first serve. The federal regulations also demand that all batteries added to the system be inspected by a scooter or wheelchair. They must be disconnected unless they are specifically designed to stop accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when taking an electric wheelchair or scooter on their flights. They also ask that you check-in 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 representatives can get assembly/disassembly information and other helpful information regarding your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are designed to provide an efficient and safe way to travel. They can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These experts can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the latest information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide you with instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines require you to remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is secured in a straight position.
Based on your airline depending on your airline, you might be required to label your wheelchair with the following details: your name, address, phone number, and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and accurately identify your equipment in the event that it gets lost or is damaged during your travels. You may also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will help you remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airline and airport personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at two hours before the departure time you have scheduled to ensure that proper stowage of your equipment is completed. Being earlier than that is even better if possible, especially during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This lets power chairs for handicapped you 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 will serve as proof if your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you the leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for damages. You should also think about bringing a seat cushion with you to ensure that your flight is as comfortable as it can be for you. A seat cushion is especially important for flights that last longer than an hour, because it will reduce the pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, getting on a plane is a daunting prospect. But, with the right preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, air travel with your power chair is attainable.
Before booking your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They will be able to help you navigate in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to make your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, it is recommended to arrive at least one hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure it is safely and properly stored for your trip.
Depending on your power chair It may be necessary for you to disassemble it prior to it is transported. If this is the case, it is important to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly available to assist staff of the airline handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's guide as well as warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any detachable items prior to you travel to the airport and also to ensure that all controls are functioning properly.
Once you arrive at the airport, your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and stowed. The airlines are not allowed to charging you a cost to store assistive devices like electric wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for those with disabilities since it allows them to save money.
A representative from the airline can transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that will fit on the aisle of the aircraft once the plane lands. You can then disembark and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the closest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft or at the jetbridge or the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with right planning and following the rules you will be able to enjoy exploring new places. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you are uncomfortable in your chair, you will never be able to enjoy the freedom that travel provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for people who suffer from mobility problems. If you're traveling with an electric or wheelchair can make your experience more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow the airline's guidelines for taking your chair with you and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact your airline before your trip to ask about their policy and get any questions answered.
Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair for your flight, as long as you prepare it correctly to travel. Some airlines may require you to charge the batteries prior to boarding and some may require you to have a doctor's note on file before they will allow you to fly using your electric chair. Certain airlines may also require you to remove the battery-powered component of your chair and put it in a protective case.
Get to the airport at least two hours before your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your departure. Bring any documentation you may need to the airport, like your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in process and can help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
When you reach the ticket counter of your airline or gate, be sure to explain your mobility needs clearly. Provide a description of your wheelchair as well as any other accessories you might require like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether they will be placing your wheelchair in a special cart or examining it for storage. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book a direct flight to minimize the amount of times your equipment is moved between places.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo area along with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. Take a photo of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.