10 Methods To Build Your Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Empire
10 Methods To Build Your Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Empire
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When you travel with a powered wheelchair, there are several things to consider. The staff at the airport and airline will ask you about the dimensions of your chair, battery type, and how to handle it.
Make sure you have these details prepared before you travel to the airport. Also, ensure that your wheelchair has "air safe" batteries that comply with the requirements for air travel.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to be transported and stowed securely on planes. They usually have an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to maneuver on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes, brick or muddy road. They could also be fitted with a drive system that is patent-pending which allows them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance with your wheelchair or scooter from the ticket counter until the gate for boarding. It is however important to contact them ahead of time to ensure they are aware of your needs and to confirm that they are able to meet those needs. Certain airlines require that you arrive one hour prior to your departure time which is essential in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes for the stowage and storage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is not large enough and is first come, first served. They also require that any extra batteries be inspected in conjunction with the scooter or wheelchair, as federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless the chair is equipped with a safe design to prevent unintentional activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before bringing an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also request to check-in one hour before your flight so that they can ensure 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 pertinent information regarding your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed for comfortable and safe travel. These power chairs are made to fold and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety purposes and place it into a carryon bag. This is to ensure that the terminals aren't exposed and the battery is securely tucked away in a upright position.
Based on your airline depending on your airline, you might 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 precisely identify your equipment in the event that it is lost or damaged during your travels. You might also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which aid you in staying in your wheelchair when you transfer with airport and airline personnel.
You should always arrive at the airport at two hours before the time of departure to ensure that proper stowage of your equipment is done. Arriving earlier than this is even better if possible, especially during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and provides ample time for the representative of the airline to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair prior to traveling. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged on the flight. This will help you in pursuing compensation for the damages from the airline. It is also advisable to bring an extra cushion for your seat, so that the flight is as comfortable as it can be for you. The use of a cushion for your seat is essential when you travel for longer than an hour, because it reduces pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling with an approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane could be an intimidating experience. Air travel with a power chair is possible with the right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Before booking your flight, speak to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best method to check-in your chair, whether it is at the ticket counter or the gate. In any case, arriving at least 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.
Depending on your power chair, it may be necessary for you to disassemble the chair prior to it is transported. In this instance it's a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in hand to assist the airline personnel handling your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's manual and warranty information. You should also remove any removable accessories and ensure that all controls are functioning before you leave for the airport.
Once you arrive at the airport your electric wheelchair will be loaded and stowed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. The airlines are prohibited from charging an additional cost to store assistive devices, like electric wheelchairs. This is a great feature for people with disabilities, because it can help them avoid costly expenses.
Once the plane is in the air at the airport, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit in the aisle of the aircraft. You can then disembark and your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the nearest possible location to the aircraft door or at the jetbridge or at the gate.
It might be difficult to travel in an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines, you can enjoy exploring new places. It is essential to keep in mind that if you do not feel comfortable in your chair you won't be able to enjoy the freedom it provides.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for those who suffer from mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, however it is important to follow the guidelines of your airline for bringing and stowing your chair on the airplane. Contact the airline in advance to learn about their policies regarding power chairs and to inquire about any questions.
Most airlines allow you to bring a motorized chair on your flight, so that you prepare it to travel. Some airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to taking off and others will require a doctor's letter prior to allowing you to travel with your powered wheelchair. Some airlines may also require you to disassemble the battery-powered part of your chair and then place it inside a protective case.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to departure. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, including your owner manual and any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up check-in process and help avoid confusion regarding your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.
If you are at the counter for tickets to airline or gate, make sure to be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any other accessories you may require, such as seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be placing your wheelchair in a separate cart or examining it for storage. If you are transferring from your electric wheelchair to all terrain electric wheelchair uk the plane, make sure you book an direct flight to cut down on the number times your equipment is moved between places.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo area along with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit airlines to charge you additional fees for the storage of your scooter or wheelchair, like they do with your luggage. Take a photo of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Notify the airline immediately.