Know Before You Go – Traveling by Air with your Power Scooter or Wheelchair

Know Before You Go – Traveling by Air with Your Power Scooter or Wheelchair

Flying with a power scooter or wheelchair is easier than ever if you prepare ahead. U.S. Department of Transportation rules guarantee your device will be transported at no additional cost. With a little planning, you can stay mobile from departure to arrival.

General Guidelines

Operate your scooter as you would when walking—stick to sidewalks and pedestrian areas.
Bring your own scooter if possible. Rentals are usually very basic and may not fit your comfort needs.
Folding scooters: These fold up into something akin in size to a rollaboard suitcase. Some even have carry cases. Newer models are amazingly lightweight, such as the Pride Mobility Jazzy GoGo Carbon which weighs just 35 lbs. or the Drive Medical ZooMe Autofolding. Some folks say that occasionally be more prone to damage from airline handling, however.
Pack essentials like a spare charger and a weather cover.
Know your scooter’s limits. Transportable models work best on smooth surfaces; for rough sidewalks or cobblestones, consider a full-size model.

What about batteries?

Sealed Lead Acid batteries are nearly always allowed to be transported on commercial airlines. However, there are restrictions for Lithium Ion batteries. You'll want to check the specifications for your paricular battery. Also, reagrdless of what kind of battery your scooter uses, ALWAYS have the Material Safety Data Sheet for your particular battery pack with you when you check in for your flight. We supply that free on request.

Booking Your Flight

When reserving tickets, look for a Special Assistance option so the airline is aware in advance. Always contact your airline before travel to confirm requirements, paperwork, and how mobility devices are handled.

Be prepared to share your scooter’s battery type. Most scooters use sealed lead acid (SLA) gel batteries; some folding scooters use lithium-ion.
Know how to switch your scooter to neutral, fold/disassemble it, and turn it fully off. Keep the key with you.
Allow at least one extra hour at check-in. Some airports require mobility devices to be dropped off at special locations.

Airline and Safety Regulations

Airline staff are trained in handling mobility devices and batteries. To ensure safe travel:

Review the FAA PackSafe Guide on wheelchairs and batteries.
Check the IATA Mobility Aid Guidance for international travel rules.
Consider whether your homeowner’s or travel insurance covers damage to mobility devices.

Preparing Your Scooter

Write important information (serial number, battery type, handling instructions) on a durable tag attached to your scooter.
Remove detachable items such as cushions, cupholders, or side guards. Carry them on if possible.
Keep all paperwork and claim forms handy in case of loss or damage.
Have the Material Safety Data Sheet with you.
It's also a good idea to have copies of the pages of the owner's manual that explains how to fold or disassemble your scooter or power chair. Pro travellers have these pages laminated and attached to their mobility product.