10 Ways To Build Your Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Empire
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric WheelchairThere are several things to consider when traveling with an electric chair. The airport staff and airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions and battery type, as well as how to handle it.
Make sure you have all this information in your possession prior to you travel to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that comply with the air travel regulations.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and stowed securely on airplanes. They typically come with an unspillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel. They can be stored under the plane as checked luggage. In addition, they will be able to move on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips brick or muddy roads. They may also be equipped with a unique drive system which allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
Airlines will assist you with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the gate for boarding. It is crucial to contact the airline prior to your departure to ensure they are aware of any specific needs and to confirm that they can meet these requirements. Some airlines require that you arrive an hour ahead of the time of departure which is crucial during 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 operates on the basis of first-come-first-serve. Federal regulations also require that any additional batteries be checked with the wheelchair or scooter. They must be shut off unless they are designed to avoid accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48-hour notice prior to taking an electric scooter or wheelchair on their flights. They also ask that you check-in an hour before your flight to ensure that you are properly handling your equipment. They also request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions and other helpful details about your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to offer a safe and convenient method of travel. These electric chairs can be folded and comply with airline guidelines for battery size and handling, as well as stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can assist you in planning your travel plans and provide you with the latest details regarding battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair for safety purposes and place it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is securely tucked away in a upright position.
Depending on the airline you use, you may need to label your wheelchair. This should include your name, address, your telephone number, and your wheelchair model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and accurately identify the equipment if it should become lost or damaged during your trip. You might want to consider purchasing aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling to assist you in staying in your chair while you travel with airport personnel and airline personnel.
You should arrive at at two hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure the proper stowage of your equipment is done. Being earlier than that is even better if possible, especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This lets you check-in early and allows the representative of the airline plenty of time to assist you with stowing your chair.
Take a lightweight wheelchairs electric picture of your wheelchair prior to travel. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you the possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline for any damages. You should also consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to ensure that your flight is as relaxing as possible for you. Cushions for seats are essential for flights that last more than an hour. They will reduce pressure on your skin, preventing soreness.
Check-In
If you are traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane could be a daunting prospect. Traveling with a power chair is possible with the right preparation and compliance with rules and regulations.
Speak to an airline representative before booking your flight to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best method to check into your seat regardless of whether it's at the counter for tickets or the gate. In either case, it's recommended to arrive at least an hour before your flight. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it is properly and properly stored for your trip.
Depending on the kind of power chair you own It could be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. If this is the case, it's beneficial to have clear assembly and disassembly instructions in order to aid the airline employees handling your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair, like the owner's manual as well as warranty information. It is also an excellent idea to take out any accessories that can be removed prior to when you go to the airport and also to ensure that all the controls are working properly.
When you arrive at an airport your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge you extra for the stowing of assistive devices like power chairs. This is a wonderful benefit for passengers with disabilities, because it can help them save money.
When the plane lands, an airline employee will be able to transfer you from your power wheelchair to one that can fit in the aisle of the aircraft. Then, you can disembark, and your wheelchair is returned to you at the shortest possible location to the door of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge, or at the gate.
A trip with an electric wheelchair can seem daunting, but with the right planning and adhering to guidelines, you can be able to enjoy the thrill of exploring new destinations with ease. The most important thing to remember is that if you are uncomfortable in your chair, you'll not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that traveling offers.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously crowded and can be extremely stressful for people who have mobility issues. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the journey less stress-inducing for you, but it's essential to follow your airline's policies for bringing and stowing your chair on board the airplane. Contact the airline prior to departure to learn about their policies on power chairs, and to inquire about any questions.
Many airlines will allow you to bring a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight as provided it's prepared for travel. Certain airlines may require you to charge the batteries prior to boarding and some will require you to have a doctor's recommendation in order to let you fly with your electric chair. Some airlines will also require you to disassemble the battery-powered part of your chair and put it in a case that more info is protected.
Get to the airport at minimum two hours prior to your scheduled departure so that your airline will be able to prepare your wheelchair prior to departure. It's recommended to bring any documentation, including the owner's manual as well as any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up the process of checking in and will make sure that there is no confusion about your airline's wheelchair policies.
When you reach the airline ticket counter or gate, make sure to be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Explain your wheelchair and any other accessories you may require for example, sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline whether they will be keeping your wheelchair in a specific cart or checking it for storage. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book an express flight to reduce the number times your equipment is moved between places.
Once your wheelchair is in the plane, it will be stowed in the cargo compartment, just like checked baggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits the airlines from charging additional fees for the storage of a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment is damaged, get more info make sure you capture a photo before leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.