10 Ways To Build Your Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Empire
10 Ways To Build Your Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Empire
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many aspects to take into consideration when traveling with a powered chair. Airport and airline staff will ask you numerous questions regarding your chair's dimensions and battery type as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have this information at hand before you leave for the airport. Also, make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air safe" batteries that meet the regulations for air travel.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA can approve them for use on flights and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. In addition, they will be able to maneuver on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips, brick or roads that are muddy. They can also be equipped with a unique drive system that permits them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter to the boarding gate. It is crucial to call the airline ahead of time to make sure they are aware of any specific needs and confirm that they can meet the requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive at least an hour prior to your departure time, which is especially important during busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is limited and operates on the basis of first-come-first-serve. They also require that any additional batteries be inspected as part of the wheelchair or scooter, as federal regulations require that they are disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a secure design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice when you bring an electric wheelchair or scooter on their flights. They also ask to check-in one hour prior to your flight to ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so that airport personnel can obtain assembly/disassembly information and other helpful details about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed for comfortable and safe travel. These power chairs can be folded in a compact manner and comply with airline guidelines for battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These experts can help you plan your travel plans and provide you with the most up-to-date information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions for assembly and disassembly. Certain airlines will require you to take the wheelchair's battery out of the way to ensure safety and put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed and that it is safely stowed upright.
Depending on the airline you fly with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, your address, your telephone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it is lost or damaged during your travels. You may want to buy aftermarket slings like the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will assist you in staying in your chair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. Being earlier than that is even better if possible especially during busy times of the year or during rush hour. This lets you check in earlier and gives plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair prior to travel. This serves as proof if your device gets damaged during the flight. This will help you in pursuing compensation for any damages from the airline. Consider bringing along a seat cushion to make the flight as comfortable as you can. Cushions for seats are essential when you travel for more than an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin preventing soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, getting on a plane could be an intimidating experience. However, with the proper preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, air travel with your power chair is feasible.
Before you book your flight, speak to an airline representative to here learn more about their policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best way to check-in your chair, whether it is at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving one hour prior to your flight is suggested. This allows the airline plenty of time to examine your equipment and ensure it is safely stored for your trip.
Based on the model of chair you own It could be necessary to disassemble it for transport. In this case it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the table to aid airline personnel who will handle your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any detachable accessories before you travel to the airport, and to make sure all get more info the controls are working properly.
Once you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the airplane. The airlines are not allowed to charging you an additional fee to stow assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is a great benefit for passengers with disabilities since it allows them to avoid costly expenses.
Once the plane is in the air at the airport, an airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit in the aisle of the aircraft. You will then be able to disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as possible, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with the proper planning and following the guidelines, you can enjoy exploring new destinations. It is important to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to enjoy the freedom it affords.
Check-Out
Airliners are notoriously crowded and can be very stressful for those with check here mobility issues. If you're using an electric or wheelchair, it can make your experience more enjoyable. However, it is important that you follow the airline's policies regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact your airline before your trip to inquire about their policies and ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, so long as you prepare it properly for travel. Certain airlines might require you to recharge the batteries prior to boarding and some will need to have a doctor's recommendation in order to allow you to fly with your motorized chair. Certain airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery powered portion of your chair and place it in a protective case.
Once you're at the airport, make sure you arrive at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time so that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for flight. Bring any documents you need to the airport, like your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly of the mobility aid. This will make it easier for the check-in process and can prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchairs.
When you arrive at the airline's ticket counter or gate, be sure to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Discuss your wheelchair and any other accessories you may need like sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or if it will be transferred to the aircraft using a specialized cart. If you're transferring to the plane with your electric wheelchair, you should try to book a direct flight, which will cut down on the amount of times your equipment will be moved between various 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 the airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. Take a picture of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.