electric-powered-wheelchairs

Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric WheelchairThere are several things you should consider when traveling with a powered chair. The staff at the airport and the airline will inquire about the dimensions of your chair, battery type, and how to use it.Be sure to have all these details in hand prior to you travel to the airport. Also, make sure your wheelchair is equipped with “air safe” batteries that meet air travel regulations.What is an air-approved electric wheelchair?Airline approved electric wheelchairs are ones that are designed to be transported and safely stowed on planes. The FAA can approve them for air travel and they can be stowed in the airplane as checked baggage. Furthermore, they will be able to maneuver on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips, bricks, or muddy roads. They may also be equipped with a patented drive system which 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 gates for boarding. It is essential to call the airline ahead of time to ensure they are aware of any special needs and to confirm that they will be able to accommodate the requirements. Some airlines require you to arrive an hour before the departure time you have scheduled This is crucial in busy travel times.Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes that allows for the stowage of a mobility scooter or wheelchair. This space is limited and operates on the basis of first-come-first-serve. They also require that any extra batteries be checked as part of the wheelchair or scooter, since federal regulations require that they must be removed from the device unless it is equipped with a safe design to prevent accidental activation.United Airlines requires 48 hours advance notice before you bring an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also request that you check in one 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 assembly/disassembly information and other helpful information about your power wheelchair or mobility scooter.SafetyAirline approved electric wheelchairs are made for secure and comfortable travel. These electric chairs are designed to fold up and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist you in planning your itinerary and give you the most current information on battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to disassemble and assemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require you to take the wheelchair’s battery out of the way for safety reasons and place it in a carry-on bag. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is securely tucked away in a straight position.Depending on the airline you fly with depending on the airline you travel with, you may have to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, your address, your number, and the wheelchair model. This will allow airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event it is stolen or mishandled during your journey. You may want to purchase aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling that will help you remain in your chair during transfers with airport personnel and airline personnel.Arrive at the airport two hours prior to your scheduled departure to ensure proper equipment storage. If you arrive earlier than this, it is even better, especially during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This allows you to check in early and allows the airline representative plenty of time to assist you in stowing your chair.Take a photo of your wheelchair prior to traveling. This will serve as proof if your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you leverage to pursue compensation from the airline for damages. It is also advisable to bring cushions for your seats, so that the flight is as relaxing as possible for you. Using a seat cushion is especially important for flights that will last more than an hour, since this will minimize pressure on your skin and help prevent soreness.Check-InThe process of boarding an aircraft with an electric wheelchair that is approved by the airline can be intimidating. However, with proper preparation and adhering to the rules and regulations, flying with your power chair is possible.Before you book your flight, you should speak with an airline representative to learn more about their policies and procedures. They can help you figure out the best way to check into your seat, whether it is at the ticket counter or at the gate. In any case, it is advised to arrive at least one hour prior to your flight. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure it is safely and properly stored to be ready for your trip.Depending on innovative electric wheelchairs may be necessary to disassemble it prior to transportation. In this instance it’s a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly on hand to assist the airline personnel handling your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety or maintenance documentation to your chair, such as the owner’s manual and warranty information. Also, remove any removable accessories and make sure that all controls are functioning before you depart for the airport.Once you arrive at the airport, your electric wheelchair will be loaded and placed in the cargo hold of the aircraft. Airlines are not permitted to charge you extra to store assistive devices, such as electric chairs. This is a great benefit for people with disabilities since it helps them avoid costly expenses.After the plane has landed, an airline employee will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to slide down the aircraft aisle. You can then disembark and your wheelchair is returned to you at the nearest possible location to the door of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or at the gate.It might be difficult to travel in an electric chair, but with the proper planning and following the guidelines you will be able to enjoy exploring new locations. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you are uncomfortable in your chair, you will never take advantage of the freedom that travel provides.Check-OutAirplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for people with mobility problems. If you have mobility scooters or wheelchairs, it can make your trip more enjoyable. However, it’s important that you follow the airline’s guidelines regarding taking your chair with you and storing it on 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 an electric chair on your flight, as provided you prepare it correctly to travel. Some airlines will require that you charge the batteries prior to taking off and others will need a doctor’s letter before they will allow you to travel with your power wheelchair. Certain airlines may also require that you disassemble the battery-powered portion of your wheelchair, and place it into an enclosure that is protected.Get to the airport at minimum two hours prior to your departure time so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair before flight. It’s recommended to bring any documentation, like the owner’s manual as well as any instructions for assembly or disassembly of your mobility aid, with you to the airport. This will speed up the check-in process and can help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline’s wheelchairs.On arrival at the counter for tickets or gate, make sure to clearly communicate your mobility requirements. Be sure to describe the kind of wheelchair you own and any necessary accessories like cushioned seats or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be checking your wheelchair for stowage, or if it will be transferred to the plane using an adapted cart. If you’re going to transfer to the plane with your electric wheelchair, you should try to make a direct flight which will minimize the amount of times your equipment will be transferred between locations.After your wheelchair is loaded onto the plane, it’s stored in the cargo area along with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for the storage of a scooter or wheelchair. If your equipment is damaged, make sure you capture a photo prior to leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.