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
There are many things you should consider when traveling with a powered chair. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you a lot of questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have these details ready prior to your trip to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with the regulations for air travel.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be carried and stowed safely on airplanes. The FAA can approve them for travel on planes, and they can be stowed under the plane as checked baggage. They will also be able move on rough surfaces such as deceleration stripes, gravel, bricks or muddy roads. They could also be equipped with a patented power drive system that allows them to navigate in tight spaces, or elevators.
Airlines will provide assistance for your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate to board. However, it is important to contact them ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of your needs and confirm that they can meet those requirements. Certain airlines require you to arrive one hour prior to your scheduled departure time, which is important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes for the stowage and storage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited and on the basis of first-come-first-serve. The federal regulations also require that any additional batteries be inspected by a scooter or wheelchair. They must be disconnected unless they are specifically designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also request that you check-in an hour prior to your flight so that they can ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. They also ask you to complete their Mobility Aid Information Form so airport personnel can gather information on assembly and disassembly, as well as other information regarding your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed for comfortable and safe travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold and meet airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and storage. If you plan to travel with the airline of your choice, contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These experts can assist you in planning your travel plans and provide you with the most current details regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require you to take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals aren't exposed, and that it is stowed upright.
Based on your airline or airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following information such as your name, address, phone number and model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it is lost or mishandled during your journey. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will allow you to remain in your chair during transfers with airport and airline personnel.
You should always arrive at at two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that the proper storage of your equipment is done. If you are able be there earlier than two hours before your departure time. This is especially important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and allows the airline representative plenty of time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Photograph your wheelchair before you travel. This serves as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you leverage to seek compensation for damages from the airline. Consider bringing along an extra cushion for your seat to make your flight as comfortable as you can. Using a seat cushion is particularly important when you travel for over an hour, as it will reduce pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, the process of boarding a plane can be an overwhelming experience. Traveling with a power chair is possible with the proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Speak to an airline representative prior to making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can help you navigate in the right direction, whether you prefer to check-in your chair at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In any case, arriving at least one hour before your flight is recommended. This allows the airline plenty of time to examine your equipment and ensure that it will be stowed safely to be ready for your trip.
Based on the power chair you have It may be necessary to disassemble it before transport. If this is the case, it is beneficial to have clear instructions for assembly and disassembly available to assist staff of the airline handling your chair. Attach any safety or maintenance documents to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and 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 the controls are functioning properly.
When you arrive at the airport your electric chair will be loaded into the cargo area and then stowed. The airlines are prohibited from charging an additional fee to stow assistive devices, such as power wheelchairs. This is a huge benefit for those with disabilities as it allows them to avoid unnecessary costs.
After the plane has landed at the airport, an airline employee will be in a position to transfer you from your power wheelchair to a wheelchair that can fit down the aircraft aisle. You will then be able to heavy duty power chair board the plane, and your power wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as possible or at the jet bridge or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with right planning and following the rules, you can enjoy exploring new locations. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you are not comfortable in your chair, you'll not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that traveling provides.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be packed, and this can be stressful for those who have mobility issues. If you have a wheelchair or a scooter, it can make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it's essential to follow the airline's guidelines for the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact the airline before your trip to inquire about their policy and to get any questions answered.
Most airlines will let you bring a motorized chair for your flight, so long as you prepare it correctly to travel. Certain airlines might require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding and some will need to have a doctor's note on file prior to being able to allow you to fly with your power chair. Some airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery-powered part of your chair and place it into an enclosure that is protected.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before departure. Bring any documents you require to the airport, such as your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will help speed up the check-in process and can help avoid confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.
When you arrive at the ticket counter or gate, make sure to clearly communicate your mobility requirements. Provide a description of your wheelchair and any other accessories you may need for example, sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they'll be checking your wheelchair for stowage or if it will be transferred to the aircraft using a specialized cart. If you're transferring from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book a direct flight to minimize the amount of times your equipment is moved between locations.
After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment with other checked luggage. 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. Inform the airline immediately.