Wheelchairs and Mobility Devices
Wheelchairs (manual or electric, folding, non-folding, or collapsible), scooters, and other mobility devices (walkers, canes, and crutches) are allowed items that can be brought onto the aircraft either in the cargo compartment or in the passenger cabin at no charge. The passenger cabin has designated space to hold two (2) wheelchairs within the cabin based on space availability. Any additional wheelchairs will be stowed in the cargo compartment of the aircraft.
- A wheelchair in the cabin cannot exceed 40 in high x 13 in wide x 50 in long and weigh more than 70 lbs.
- Non-collapsible wheelchairs, scooters or other battery-powered wheelchairs can be checked at the ticket counter or departure gate.
Wheelchair and Mobility Devices Batteries
Battery-powered mobility devices that are checked in at the ticket counter or gate will be transported in the cargo compartment and will be loaded and stowed in an upright position in accordance with all Federal Hazardous Materials safety regulations (49 CFR 175.10.(a).15-17). In some situations, it will be necessary to remove the battery from the customer's wheelchair or other mobility device and to package the battery separately. Proper labeling of battery cables and/or providing detailed disconnection and reconnection directions will assist ground personnel at the departure and destination city to easily disconnect/reconnect the battery to the wheelchair/scooter.
Please provide the type and size of battery at check-in to ensure safe handling and transportation of the battery. All batteries must not show any defect, damage, or leakage to bring them onto an aircraft. Below are the types of batteries used on wheelchairs and limitations on each.
Spillable or Wet Cell Batteries
A spare spillable battery is not allowed.
Non-Spillable Batteries (AKA Gel or Dry Cell)
One (1) spare non-spillable battery is allowed in the cargo compartment.
Lithium-Ion Batteries
- The main lithium-ion battery cannot exceed 300-watt hours (Wh).
- The main lithium-ion batteries that have been removed from your wheelchair or mobility aid must be carried onboard with you.
- One (1) spare battery that is ≤300 Wh or up to two (2) spare batteries that are ≤160 Wh each are allowed to be carried onboard.
- All batteries carried onboard must be securely placed inside a carry-on bag. The battery terminals must be protected from short circuits by placing the battery in the original retail packaging, or insulating the terminal by taping over exposed terminals or placing each battery in a separate plastic bag or protective pouch.
Lithium Metal Batteries
Forbidden on all aircrafts.
Tip: When traveling with a wheelchair it is advisable to provide written instructions to observe when loading and unloading it in the cargo compartment of the airplane. Removable pieces will be removed as allowed in the written instructions. It is recommended that any removable parts be removed by the customer and either carried onto the airplane to be safely stowed in an overhead bin, under the seat, or as checked baggage. It is also recommended that the instructions are affixed to the device as well as the customer having an extra copy.
