When travelling by air with a mobility aid that contains batteries, such as powered wheelchairs or mobility scooters, some preparation is required and adherence to certain regulations. This ensures safety and compliance with airline policies, but understanding this information will also make travelling more straightforward for you. Below are some important things to consider and do prior to travel.
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Can I take a Mobility Scooter or Powerchair on a Plane?
Check with the airline you are travelling with. Different airlines will have different policies regarding the transportation of mobility aids with batteries. You will need to notify and seek approval from your airline at least 48 hours prior to travelling. This is your responsibility to do this, Mobility Hire will not take responsibility of doing this for you.
What size battery can I take on an airplane in my Mobility Scooter?
Determine what batteries are in your mobility aid; Lithium ion or non-spillable wet batteries (includes AGM, Gel & SLS batteries). Most airlines allow you to travel with lithium-ion batteries, but there are restrictions on the watt-hour (Wh) rating you can take. The lithium-ion battery must be less than 300Wh + One spare battery not exceeding 300 Wh or two spare batteries not exceeding 160 Wh each may be carried in carry-on baggage. You can calculate the watt-hour (Wh) by multiplying the battery’s nominal voltage (V) by the capacity in ampere-hours (Ah): Ah x V = Wh. If your lithium-ion battery is larger than 300Wh it is unlikely you will be allowed to take it with you. All lithium-ion batteries must be tested as per UN38.3 for transportation. Most airlines adhere to IATA guidelines of the above information, some smaller airline deviate from this. You will need to double check the regulations for the airline you are travelling with. Non-spillable wet batteries of any size must comply with Special Provision A67 – this means the battery is capable of withstanding the vibration and pressure differential tests without any leaking of battery fluid.
What information will my airline ask about my Mobility Scooter or Powered Wheelchair?
Notify the airline of the product specifications. The minimum information your airline will want to know is:
- Manufacturer & model name
- Total weight of mobility aid, including installed batteries & accessories
- Length, width & height of product as presented for travel
- Does the mobility aid have any removeable or adjustable parts (such as seat cushion, joystick or headrest etc)?
- Is the battery specifically designed to be removed for transportation?
Do I need documentation to Travel with a Mobility Scooter Battery?
Some airlines may require documentation regarding the battery type and the specifications of your mobility aid. Each product on our website has a specifications tab and a downloads tab. You should find all of the information you need to provide for the airline on our website. If you are missing something please do not hesitate to contact us prior to travelling and we will be happy to assist you with this.
Do I need to remove my Mobility Scooter Battery for Travel?
Some airlines may require you to remove the battery from your mobility aid before transportation. Make sure you familiarise yourself with this process well in advance of travelling. If the rental mobility aid is being delivered by our own delivery driver, they will be happy to show you this on delivery of the product. If you are receiving a courier delivery then please refer to the user manual provided or alternatively we can talk you through this over the telephone.
How do I Transport a Mobility Scooter Battery?
If the battery needs to be transported separately, you will need to ensure it is packaged & labelled according to the airline’s regulations. This is something you can ask your airline about before travelling, so you are well prepared in advance.
Is there anything else I can do to make Air Travel with a Mobility Scooter easier?
Arrive early! Try to allow extra time at the airport to accommodate any additional procedures related to your mobility aid. Arriving early ensures that there is sufficient time for check in, security screening and any other necessary documentation or inspection of the mobility aid you are taking. Communication is key; be proactive in communicating your needs to the airline staff and security personnel. They are there to assist you and to make sure you have a smooth travel experience. If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to ask for assistance. Traveling with a mobility aid might feel like a daunting and complex process. However, with the correct information to hand for your airline it can be made much simpler. As the UK’s #1 supplier of mobility equipment for hire we are on hand to help you with this and to give you peace of mind when going away with any powered mobility equipment. IATA Guidelines Below are some links to popular airlines & the UK Civil Aviation Authority. Showing their own common guidance for air travel with a mobility aid: Virgin Atlantic British Airways Jet2 EasyJet Ryan Air UK Civil Aviation Authority
Insurance Terms & Conditions for Air Travel
When you are booking mobility aids for holidays involving air travel, you must be aware that your insurance does not cover you from arriving at the air terminal to exiting the terminal at your destination. YOU ARE COVERED BY THE MONTREAL AGREEMENT, but you must follow their rules Failure to notify the airline at their customer services desk before leaving the terminal, and obtain a damage reference number, will result in your personal liability for damage caused to your product. When correctly informing the airline you have travelled with, you will be fully covered for all damage without any excess costs. The process is simple: just visit the airlines customer service desk, report the damage, and they will inspect what you are saying and give you a reference number. With that number, we will be able to contact the airline and effect repairs without cost to you.
Remember, once you obtain your mobility product after your travel, thoroughly inspect it to ensure it is not damaged in transit and that everything has arrived safely. If it has, then all is well, otherwise inform the airline before leaving the airport terminal.
