How Much Do Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Experts Make?
How Much Do Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Experts Make?
Blog Article
Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
There are many things you should consider when traveling with powered chairs. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you a lot of questions regarding the dimensions of your chair, battery type and how to handle it.
Make sure you have all of these details in hand prior to you travel to the airport. Make sure your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that comply with the air travel regulations.
What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?
Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stowed on planes. They will typically have a non-spillable battery that is FAA-approved for air travel and can be stowed underneath the plane as checked luggage. Furthermore they'll be able to maneuver on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips, brick or muddy roads. They could also be equipped with an exclusive power drive system that permits them to navigate in tight spaces, or elevators.
The airline will assist passengers with their wheelchairs or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter until the gates for boarding. It is however important to contact them ahead of time to ensure that they are aware of your needs and to confirm that they are able to meet those requirements. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour before the time of departure This is particularly important during peak travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes for the stowage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited and operated on a first-come, first-serve basis. Federal regulations also require that all extra batteries be inspected by a scooter or wheelchair. They must be disconnected unless they are specifically designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before you bring an electric wheelchair or scooter on their flights. They also request to check-in one hour prior to your flight time to ensure proper handling of your equipment. In addition, they ask that you complete their Mobility Aid Information form to provide airport representatives with assembly/disassembly instructions as well as other useful information about your power chair or mobility scooter.
Safety
Airline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure comfortable and safe travel. These power chairs are made to fold up and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and storage. If you are planning to travel with the airline of your choice, make contact with their Special Assistance department ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility devices. They can assist in preparing your itinerary and provide you with the most current information on battery requirements. They can also provide you with assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines will require you to remove your wheelchair's battery for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is to ensure that the battery terminals aren't 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 will include your name, address, your telephone number, as well as your wheelchair model. This will help airline and airport personnel quickly and easily identify the equipment if it should become lost or damaged during your travels. You might also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket like the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which help you remain in your wheelchair while you travel with airport and airline personnel.
Make sure you arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment storage. If you are able you can arrive at least two hours earlier than your departure time. This is particularly important during busy holiday periods or rush hour. This allows you to check-in early and allows the airline representative ample time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Take a photo of your wheelchair prior to travel. This serves as proof if your device is damaged during the flight. This will give you the possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline in case of damages. You should consider bringing a seat cushion to make the trip as comfortable as you can. A seat cushion is essential for flights that last longer than an hour, because it reduces the pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.
Check-In
For those traveling using an approved airline electric wheelchair, the process of boarding a plane can be an intimidating experience. Traveling with a power chair is feasible with proper preparation and adhering to rules and regulations.
Contact an airline representative prior to making your reservation to learn more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best method to check in your chair whether at the ticket counter or the gate. In either case, it is recommended that you arrive at least an hour before your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment, and ensure it is safely stowed to be ready for your trip.
Based on the power chair you have It could be necessary to disassemble it before transport. In this case it is helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to assist the airline employees who handle your chair. Attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair. This includes the owner's guide and warranty information. You should also remove any accessories that are removable and check that all controls work before leaving for the airport.
When you arrive at the airport the electric chair will be loaded into the cargo hold and stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge extra fees for stowing assistive devices such as power chair power chairs. This is a huge benefit for those who have disabilities, as they can save money.
An airline employee will be able transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which will fit on the aircraft aisle when the plane lands. You will then be able to board the plane, and your powered wheelchair will be returned to you closest to the plane's door as you can, either at the jet bridge or at the gate.
The idea of using an electric wheelchair may seem intimidating, but with proper planning and adhering to guidelines, you can be able to experience the joy of exploring new places easily. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you're not comfortable in your chair, you'll not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that traveling offers.
Check-Out
Aircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for people who suffer from mobility problems. Having a wheelchair or scooter can make the trip less stressful for you, however it's essential to follow the guidelines of your airline for transporting and stowing your chair on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, be sure to contact the airline prior to your travels to inquire about their policies and ask any questions.
Most airlines allow you to take an electric wheelchair on your trip as long as it's properly prepared for travel. Some airlines might require you to recharge the batteries before boarding, and some will need to have a medical note on file prior to being able to allow you to fly with your power chair. Certain airlines may also require that you take down the battery-powered portion of your chair, and place it in a protective case.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at least 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 recommended to bring any documentation, such as the owner's manual as well as any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid, to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline's wheelchair.
When you arrive at the airline's ticket counter or gate, make sure to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Discuss your wheelchair and any accessories you may need, such as sideguards or seat cushions. Ask the airline if they will be keeping your wheelchair in a special cart or examining it for stowage. If you're transferring to the plane using your electric wheelchair, you should try to make a direct flight which will cut down on the number of times your equipment will be moved between various locations.
Once your wheelchair is on the plane it will be placed in the cargo compartment, just like checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra fees for storing a wheelchair or scooter. If your equipment arrives damaged, you must take a photograph prior to leaving the airport and immediately inform the airline.