electric-powered-wheelchairs

Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric WheelchairThere are several aspects to take into consideration when traveling with an electric chair. The staff at the airport and airline will ask you about your chair, its dimensions, battery type, and how to handle it.Make sure you have these details prepared before you travel to the airport. Make sure that 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 have been approved by airlines are those that can be safely transported and stowed on planes. The FAA will approve them for travel on planes and they can be stored in the airplane as checked baggage. Furthermore they’ll be able to maneuver on rough surfaces like gravel, deceleration strips brick or roads that are muddy. They could also be fitted with a unique drive system that permits them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.Airlines will provide assistance with your scooter or wheelchair from the ticket counter until the boarding gate. It is however important to contact them ahead of time to make sure they are aware of your requirements and to confirm that they are able to meet those needs. Some airlines require you to be at least one hour prior to your scheduled departure time This is crucial during peak travel times.Southwest Airlines has a special compartment in the cabin of passengers of their planes that allows for the stowage and storage of one mobility scooter or wheelchair. The space is limited and operated on a first-come, first-serve basis. They also require that any extra batteries be checked as part of the wheelchair or scooter, since federal regulations require that they be disconnected from the device unless the chair is equipped with an effective design to prevent accidental activation.United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also ask that you check in an hour prior to your flight to ensure 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 details about your mobility wheelchair or power scooter.SafetyAirline-approved electric wheelchairs are designed to ensure secure and comfortable travel. These electric chairs can be folded and comply with airline guidelines regarding battery size, handling and stowage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. They can assist in planning your trip and provide you with the most current information regarding battery requirements. They can also give you instructions on how to assemble and disassemble your wheelchair. Some airlines require that you remove the battery from your wheelchair to ensure safety and then place it in a bag for carry-on. This is done to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is safely stowed in an upright position.Based on your airline or airline, you may be asked to label your wheelchair with the following details such as your name, address, phone number and model. This will enable airport and airline personnel to quickly and precisely identify your equipment in the event that it gets lost or is mishandled during your journey. You might also look into purchasing slings from the aftermarket, such as the CARES harness or ADAPTS sling, which aid you in staying in your wheelchair while you travel with airline and airport personnel.You should always arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to the departure time you have scheduled to ensure the proper storage of your equipment is accomplished. If possible you can arrive at least two hours earlier than your scheduled departure time. This is especially important during busy holiday seasons or rush hour. This allows you to arrive early and allows plenty of time for the representative of the airline to assist you in stowing your chair.Before electric powered wheelchairs travel, take a picture of your wheelchair to use as proof in the event that your device is damaged on the flight. This will give you possibility of pursuing compensation from the airline in case of damages. You should also consider bringing an extra cushion for your seat to ensure that your flight is as relaxing as possible for you. Seat cushions are particularly important when you travel for more than an hour. They will reduce the pressure on your skin and will prevent soreness.Check-InThe process of boarding an airplane with an electric wheelchair that is accepted by the airline can be intimidating. However, with proper preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, air travel with a power chair is attainable.Before you book your flight, speak to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They can guide you on the best way to check into your seat whether at the counter for tickets or the gate. In either case, it’s recommended that you arrive at least an hour prior to your flight. This gives the airline ample time to check your equipment and ensure that it is safely stored for your trip.Depending on the type of power chair you have, it may be necessary to disassemble the chair for transport. In this instance it’s a good idea to have instructions for assembly and disassembly in hand to assist the airline personnel handling your chair. It is also a good idea to attach any safety and maintenance documentation to your chair, including the owner’s manual or warranty information. It is also a good idea to remove any accessories that can be removed prior to when you go to the airport and to ensure all of the controls are in working order.When you arrive at an airport the electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and then stowed. Airlines are not permitted to charge you extra for the stowing of assistive devices like electric chairs. This is a wonderful benefit for those with disabilities as it helps them save money.A representative from the airline will be able to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair which can fit down the aisle of the aircraft when the plane lands. Then, you can disembark, and your wheelchair is returned to you at the shortest possible place to the doorway of the aircraft or at the jetbridge or the gate.Traveling with an electric wheelchair may seem intimidating, but with proper planning and adherence to guidelines, you can be able to experience the joy of exploring new locations with ease. It is crucial to remember that if you don’t feel comfortable in your chair you will not be able to travel with the freedom it affords.Check-OutAircrafts can be crowded and this can be stressful for those with mobility problems. If you have an electric or wheelchair, it can make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it’s essential to follow the airline’s guidelines regarding the use of your chair and storage it on the plane. 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 take a motorized wheelchair with you on your flight as you’ve prepared it for travel. Certain airlines might require you to charge the batteries prior to boarding and some will need to have a doctor’s note on file prior to being able to allow you to fly with your power chair. Some airlines may also require you to remove the battery-powered part of your wheelchair and place it in a protective case.Arrive at the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure so that your airline can prepare your wheelchair prior to your flight. Bring any documentation you might need to the airport, such as your manual or any instructions for assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will help speed up the process of checking in and will help avoid confusion about the policies of your airline’s wheelchairs.If you are at the ticket counter of your airline or gate, make sure to be able to clearly communicate your mobility needs. Provide the type of wheelchair you have and any accessories you require like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be placing your wheelchair in a special cart or checking it for storage. If you’re taking a transfer to the plane using your electric wheelchair, try to book a direct flight, which will minimize the number of times your equipment will be transferred between different locations.After your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it will be stored in the cargo compartment with other checked luggage. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging you additional fees for the storage of your wheelchair or scooter, like they do with your luggage. If your equipment is damaged, make sure you take a photograph prior to leaving the airport and immediately notify the airline.