20 Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Websites That Are Taking The Internet By Storm
20 Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Websites That Are Taking The Internet By Storm
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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many aspects to take into consideration when traveling with a powered chair. The staff at the airport and the airline will inquire about the dimensions of your chair and battery type, as well as how to use it.
Make sure you have this information ready before you go to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are in compliance with the air travel regulations.
What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that are endorsed by airlines are able to be safely transported and stored on planes. They will typically have non-spillable batteries that are FAA-approved for air travel and can be stored under the plane as checked baggage. They will also be able navigate on rough surfaces, such as gravel, deceleration stripes brick or muddy road. They may also be equipped with a unique drive system that allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the boarding gates. However, it is important to contact them prior to time to ensure that they are aware of your needs and confirm that they can meet those needs. Certain airlines require you to arrive an hour ahead of your scheduled departure, which is especially important in busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their passenger cabin that can be used for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. This space is limited, and it's first come, first served. They also require that any extra batteries be checked as part of the wheelchair or scooter, as federal regulations require that they be disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with a safe design to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask to check-in at least an hour before your flight to 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 endorsed by airlines are designed to provide a safe and convenient way to travel. They can be folded and are in line with airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and stowage. If you plan to fly with your airline of preference, you should contact their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. These experts can assist you in planning your itinerary and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with instructions for assembly and disassembly. Some airlines require you to take the wheelchair's battery out of the way for safety reasons and put it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery's terminals are not exposed and that it is stowed upright.
Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, 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 that it is lost or mishandled during your journey. You may also think about purchasing slings that are aftermarket like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will help you remain in your wheelchair when you transfer with airport and airline personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good storage. If you are able, arrive earlier than two hours prior to the time you plan to depart. This is especially important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This lets you check in earlier and gives ample time for the representative of the airline to assist you with the stowing of your chair.
Photograph 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 leverage in pursuing compensation for damages from the airline. You should consider bringing a seat cushion to make the flight as comfortable as possible. The use of a cushion for your seat is especially important when you travel for more than an hour, since this will minimize pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is accepted by the airline can be a daunting task. Traveling with a power chair is possible with the right preparation and adherence of rules and regulations.
Talk to an airline representative prior to booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best way to check in your chair whether at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, it is recommended that you arrive at least an hour before your flight. This allows the airline plenty of time to inspect your equipment and ensure it will be safely towed for your journey.
Based on the model of power chair you have, it may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. In this case, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in the go to help airline personnel handling your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair, such as the owner's manual or warranty information. You should also remove any removable accessories and ensure that all controls are functioning before leaving for the airport.
Once you arrive at an airport the electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and stowed. Airlines are not allowed to charge extra fees for the stowing of assistive devices such as power chairs. This is a wonderful benefit for those with disabilities since it allows them to avoid unnecessary expenses.
A representative from the airline will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that will fit on the aisle of the aircraft once the plane arrives. Then, you can disembark, and your wheelchair will be returned to you at the shortest possible location to the door of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
It can be a bit daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with the right planning and following the rules, you can enjoy exploring new locations. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if uncomfortable in your chair, you will not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that travel affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be very stressful for people who suffer from mobility issues. The use of a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, however it's essential to follow your airline's policies for bringing and stowing your chair on board the plane. Contact the airline in advance to learn about their policies on power chairs and to ask any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized chair for your flight, so that you prepare it for travel. Certain airlines may require you to charge the batteries prior to boarding and some will need to have a doctor's recommendation on file prior to being able to let you fly with your motorized chair. Some airlines may also require you to take apart the battery-powered part of your chair and put it in a protective case.
Make cost of electric wheelchair sure you arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to departure. It's also a good idea to bring any documentation, including the owner's manual as well as any assembly/disassembly instructions for your mobility aid, to the airport. This will help speed up the process of checking in and will prevent any confusion regarding the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
Upon arriving at the airline's ticket counter or gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Explain your wheelchair and any accessories you might require for example, seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline whether they will be storing your wheelchair in a specific cart or checking it for storage. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, make sure you book an direct flight to cut down on the amount of times your equipment is moved between locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it is stored in the cargo compartment with other checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of your wheelchair or scooter, like they do with your luggage. If your equipment arrives damaged, be sure to take a photograph prior to leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.