10 Tips To Build Your Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Empire
10 Tips To Build Your Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair Empire
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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair
When traveling with a powered wheelchair, there are a few aspects to be considered. The airport staff and airline personnel will ask you numerous questions regarding your chair's dimensions and battery type, as well as how it should be handled.
Make sure you have all of this information in your possession prior to you travel to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair has "air-safe" batteries that are compliant with air travel regulations.
What is an airline-approved electric wheelchair?
Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and stowed safely on planes. The FAA can approve them for air travel, and they can be stored in the airplane as checked baggage. Additionally they'll be able to navigate on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or muddy roads. They can also be equipped with a patented drive system which allows them to maneuver through tight spaces or elevators.
The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the gates for boarding. It is however important to contact them ahead of time to ensure they are aware of your needs and to confirm they can meet those needs. Certain airlines require that you arrive an hour before your scheduled departure which is crucial during busy travel times.
Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the passenger cabin of their planes that allows for the stowage of a wheelchair or mobility scooter. The space is limited and operated on a first-come, first-serve basis. The federal regulations also require that all extra batteries be checked with the scooter or wheelchair. They must be disconnected unless they are designed to prevent accidental activation.
United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice prior to you bring electric wheelchairs or scooters aboard their flights. They also require that you check in one hour before your flight, so they can ensure the proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions as well as other useful details about your mobility chair or power scooter.
Safety
Electric wheelchairs that are approved by airlines are designed to provide the most secure and comfortable method of travel. They can be folded and comply with airline standards for battery size and handling, as well as stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline ahead of time to discuss the specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in planning your itinerary and give you the most up-to-date information on battery requirements. They can also provide instructions on how to put together and disassemble your wheelchair. Certain airlines require that you remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety and then place it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the battery terminals aren't exposed, and that it is safely stowed upright.
Depending on the airline you fly with, you may need to label your wheelchair. This would include your name, address, your 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 stolen or mishandled on your trip. You might also consider purchasing aftermarket slings such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which will aid you in staying in your wheelchair when you transfer with airport and airline personnel.
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at minimum two hours prior to the time of departure to ensure proper stowage of your equipment is accomplished. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better especially during busy holiday times or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and gives the representative of the airline plenty of time to assist you in stowing your chair.
Take a picture of your wheelchair prior to travel. This serves as proof if your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for damages. You should also think about bringing a seat cushion with you, so that the flight is as comfortable as possible for you. Using a seat cushion is especially important for flights that will last more than an hour, since this will minimize the pressure on your skin and prevent soreness.
Check-In
The process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that has been approved by the airline may be a daunting task. However, with the proper preparation and compliance with rules and regulations, traveling with your power chair is attainable.
Contact an airline representative before making your booking to find out more about the policies and procedures. They can guide you on here the best method to check-in your chair regardless of whether it's at the counter for tickets or at the gate. In either case, it is recommended to arrive at least one hour before your flight. This allows the airline to examine your equipment and ensure that it's safely stowed for your journey.
Depending on the type of chair you own It could be required to disassemble it prior to transport. In this instance it's a good idea to have instructions for get more info assembly and disassembly in the table to aid airline personnel who will handle your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety and maintenance documentation to website your chair, including the owner's manual or warranty information. It is also recommended to remove any removable accessories and ensure whether all controls function before you depart for the airport.
When you arrive at an airport the electric chair will be placed in the cargo get more info hold and stowed. Airlines get more info are not permitted to charge extra fees for stowing assistive devices such as power chairs. This is a great benefit for passengers with disabilities as it helps them avoid costly expenses.
Once the plane is in the air at the airport, an airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to one that can fit down the aircraft aisle. Then, you will be able to get off the plane and your power wheelchair will be returned to you close to the aircraft door as you can in either the jet bridge or at the gate.
It may seem daunting to travel with an electric chair, but with proper planning and following the guidelines you can have fun exploring new locations. It is important to remember that if you don't feel comfortable in your chair you won't be able to travel with the freedom it affords.
Check-Out
Airplanes are notoriously packed and can be extremely stressful for people who have mobility issues. If you're using an electric or wheelchair, it can make your experience more enjoyable. However, it is 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 policies and get any questions answered.
Most airlines will let you bring an electric chair on your flight, so provided you prepare it for travel. Certain airlines might require you to charge the batteries prior to boarding and some may require you to have a doctor's note on file prior to being able to let you fly with your motorized chair. Some airlines may also require that you remove the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair, and then place it in an enclosure that is protected.
Make sure you arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before flight. It's recommended to bring any documentation, including your owner manual and any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion over your airline's policy regarding wheelchairs.
On arrival at the airline's ticket counter or at the gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility needs. Provide the type of wheelchair you have and any other accessories you may require, such as cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be keeping your wheelchair in a separate cart or examining it for storage. If you're transferring to the plane with your electric wheelchair, make sure to make a direct flight which will cut down on the number of times that your equipment is moved between locations.
After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment along with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra to store your wheelchair or scooter, just as they would with your luggage. Take a picture of your equipment in the event that it arrives damaged. Contact the airline immediately.