Airlines in the United States must follow the Air Carrier Access Act. In simple terms, you have the right to travel with your assistive device, to receive timely assistance getting through the airport and onto the aircraft, and to have your device returned promptly at the gate after landing when you request gate check. If an airline loses, damages, or destroys your mobility device, they are responsible for the full cost to repair or replace it. Ask to speak with the airline’s Complaint Resolution Official if you need help with a disability related problem at the airport. You can also review the Department of Transportation Bill of Rights in the references.
Mobility equipment without the hassle
Battery rules in plain language
Battery types you will hear about
Most power wheelchairs and scooters use one of the following
Lithium ion Rechargeable, lighter for the same power. Airlines allow these with specific limits and handling rules.
Nonspillable batteries Often called gel cell or absorbed electrolyte sealed lead acid. These are allowed on aircraft when secured and protected from damage and short circuit.
Spillable wet batteries Traditional lead acid with liquid electrolyte. These are allowed with added packaging and stowage conditions. The airline may remove and package the battery separately if the chair cannot travel upright in the cargo hold.
Lithium metal non rechargeable These are not allowed for use in mobility devices on passenger aircraft.
Key limits for lithium ion wheelchair and scooter batteries
Installed and protected by design If the lithium ion battery is built into a protective housing and secured to the device, airlines may transport the device with the battery installed. Follow the airline’s instructions at check in, protect against accidental activation, and expect gate check for the device.
Removable or not adequately protected If the battery is removable or not fully protected by the device structure, the battery must be removed and carried in the cabin. Terminals must be protected from short circuit and the battery must be protected from damage in a pouch or rigid case.
Spare batteries for mobility devices You may carry one spare battery up to 300 watt hours, or two spares up to 160 watt hours each, in your carry on. Spares are never allowed in checked baggage.
Lithium metal not rechargeable Not allowed with these devices.
The exact wording and additional conditions are available on the Federal Aviation Administration PackSafe pages and the International Air Transport Association mobility aid guidance in the references.
Mobility equipment without the hassle
How to find your battery type and watt hours
Look for a label or plate on the battery or in your device manual. It may list either watt hours or a combination of voltage and amp hours. If watt hours are not shown, you can calculate Watt hours equals volts times amp hours For example, 24 volts times 12 amp hours equals 288 watt hours. Write these numbers down and keep a photo on your phone to show airline staff.
If your device uses two batteries, check the rating for each one. Some devices use two smaller packs rather than one large pack. If each is under 160 watt hours and they are the only batteries powering the device, that set is within the common limits described above.
Mobility equipment without the hassle
Packing and preparation checklist at home
Use this checklist two to three days before departure so you have time to get parts or print labels
Confirm battery type and watt hours Read labels and take clear photos. If you have a removable lithium ion battery, bring the manufacturer instructions for removal and transport.
Secure parts that can detach Remove or secure joystick, headrest, seat cushion, foot plates, arm pads, baskets, and any specialized mounts. Place small parts in a labeled bag you carry on.
Protect the battery if it must be removed Place each lithium ion battery in a protective pouch or rigid case. Cover exposed terminals with a cap or nonconductive tape to prevent short circuit. Pack the battery in your carry on within easy reach for inspection if asked.
Prevent accidental activation Turn the device off. If possible, switch to free wheel mode and add a note where the free wheel levers are located. Provide written instructions for ground staff on how to push and lift the device without damage.
Prepare handling instructions for airline staff Create a one page note with Device make and model Total weight and folded dimensions Battery type and watt hours How to place in free wheel mode Points that must not be lifted or used as tie down points Any removable parts you have already taken off Tape this note to the chair frame in a visible spot.
Bring a small repair kit Allen keys, tape, zip ties, a small adjustable wrench, and contact information for your repair vendor. Keep this in your carry on.
Arrange disability assistance and preboarding When you book, request wheelchair assistance from curb to gate and preboarding. Reconfirm with the airline twenty four to forty eight hours before travel.
Tell the agent you are traveling with a power wheelchair or scooter Share your one page instructions. Ask the agent to enter your device details in the reservation so ramp staff can see them.
Confirm how the battery will be handled If the battery is removable or not adequately protected, tell the agent that you will remove it and carry it on. Show the watt hour rating.
Request gate check Ask for gate check with return to jet bridge on arrival. This allows you to use your device in the terminal and reduces the time it spends in cargo handling.
Ask for preboarding Preboarding gives staff time to tag the device, wrap delicate parts, and move it carefully down the jet bridge.
At the security checkpoint
Allow extra time Power mobility devices go through a manual inspection. Be ready to explain any medical equipment attached to your chair.
Carry on the batteries and small parts Spare lithium ion batteries and any battery removed from the device must travel in the cabin. Keep terminals covered and each battery protected from damage.
Use passenger support if needed If you need additional assistance, tell the officer what you need and how they can help. If something is unclear, ask for a supervisor.
At the gate
Speak with the gate agent early Remind them that you will gate check the device. Show your instruction sheet again, especially free wheel location and safe lift points.
Remove and carry small parts Take off the joystick, headrest, and cushion if they detach easily. Keep them with you in the cabin.
Photograph the device Take a few quick photos that show condition before it is taken down the jet bridge. This helps if you need to document damage later.
Watch the handoff when possible If permitted, watch ramp staff as they take the device. Offer the free wheel note and point out secure spots for lifting.
On arrival
Wait for return at the jet bridge Your device should be brought to you at the aircraft door. If it is not present, ask the crew to contact the ramp and update you.
Inspect before leaving the gate area Check the joystick, wheels, tires, and frame. If anything is bent, missing, or not working, report it immediately.
Ask for a temporary loaner and repairs if damage occurred Airlines must arrange prompt repair or a suitable loaner and are responsible for the full cost of repair or replacement when they damage a mobility device. Ask to speak with the Complaint Resolution Official if this process is not moving quickly.
Mobility equipment without the hassle
Special notes for nonspillable and spillable lead acid batteries
If your device uses a sealed nonspillable battery and the design protects the battery from damage and short circuit, airlines may transport it with the battery installed. If the chair cannot be stowed upright or protected from damage in the hold, the airline may remove and package the battery separately in a strong rigid container. For spillable wet batteries, upright stowage is required. If upright stowage is not possible, staff may remove and package the battery so it remains upright in transit. In both cases, advance notice and extra check in time help ensure correct handling.
Mobility equipment without the hassle
Practical tips that reduce the chance of damage
Label critical points Use bright tape and a marker to label Do not lift here near fragile components. Add arrows to correct tie down points if known.
Reduce the device footprint Fold or collapse when possible. Remove headrest or swing away footrests. Smaller size reduces snags on belt loaders and doors.
Carry a seat sling if you need help transferring Practice transfers with your sling at home and carry it in your personal item so it is available during preboarding.
Plan bathroom access If you need an onboard aisle chair, ask the airline in advance. For shorter flights without accessible lavatories, plan timing of fluids and be sure you have needed supplies.
Keep contacts handy Have your repair vendor phone number, your clinician letter if you use specialized positioning components, and the airline disability desk number ready.
Mobility equipment without the hassle
Frequently asked questions
Can I bring a manual wheelchair into the cabin
Yes when space allows. Aircraft with one hundred or more seats must provide priority stowage for at least one collapsible manual wheelchair in the cabin. If in cabin stowage is not available, the device travels in the cargo hold and must be returned promptly at the gate if you requested gate check.
Are lithium metal non rechargeable batteries ever allowed with mobility devices
No for these devices. Lithium metal non rechargeable batteries are not permitted with battery powered wheelchairs or scooters on passenger aircraft.
What if my wheelchair does not fit through the cargo door
Airlines must inform you about aircraft limitations. If your device is too large for the cargo door, the airline should work with you to rebook on an aircraft that can accommodate it when feasible.
How many spare batteries can I carry for my chair
You may carry one spare up to 300 watt hours or two spares up to 160 watt hours each in your carry on. Protect terminals and place each in its own protective case or pouch.
Do I need to disconnect cables
If the battery remains installed and protected by design, the device must be protected from accidental activation. Some airlines ask that you tape the power switch in the off position. If the battery is removed, disconnect per manufacturer instructions.
