Flying With A Wheelchair

US Airline Policies for Mobility Disabled

Traveling while being physically disabled is not an easy task. The continuous struggle to find the right flight (in terms of seat and schedule) can make it a long process until you book a flight. Fortunately, many airlines in the USA have disabled-friendly policies and facilities to make sure the journey is easy, comfy, and pleasant. You can get in touch with our team of travel experts who can assist you regarding the policies for wheelchair-bound travel. Feel free to call anytime as they are available 24x7.

Major US Airlines Policy for Wheelchair-Bound Travel

1. Types of Wheelchairs Allowed on Plane
   • Manual wheelchairs are allowed in the cabin of the plane as battery-operated wheelchairs are heavier and cannot be stowed in the aircraft safely.
   • You can bring your collapsible wheelchair onboard, which can be kept under the seats, or on overhead compartments. For larger wheelchairs, aircraft provide the cargo space.
   • Passengers with electric wheelchairs must arrive one hour before the usual check-in time.


2. Regulations for Electric Wheelchairs
   • The passenger needs to inform the airline regarding the use of a wheelchair so that prior arrangements can be made.
   • One must share all needed details such as size, weight, and battery type to avoid any hassle during check-in and boarding the flight.
   • Lithium batteries are not allowed on planes. You can carry those inside a protective pouch in your carry bag.
   • Always carry an air-safe spillable battery. Disabled passengers are only allowed to carry one battery with 300-watt hours or two spare batteries not exceeding 160 watts each.
   • As electric wheelchairs need to be dismantled at the time of check-in, one cannot carry a nonspillable battery wheelchair on the plane.


3. Wheelchair Size and Weight Allowed on Aircraft
   • The size of wheelchairs allowed in aircraft completely depends on the airline you choose.
   • All airplanes with at least 100 seats have a wheelchair closet that measures no less than 13 inches by 36 inches by 42 inches.
   • A wheelchair weighing not more than 250 pounds can be easily kept in the cargo. Any wheelchair exceeding the weight might not be allowed inside the aircraft.
   • If you have a power wheelchair, you can request the authorities to provide you with a manual wheelchair that meets the size regulation.


4. Other Helpful Tips for Passengers
   • You can check in your wheelchair during baggage check.
   • You need not pay any fare/ fee for your wheelchair.
   • You can consult the designated authorities for any loss or damage during travel. You must have proof of purchase, a wheelchair model, serial number, and type.
   • You must call the airline to get SSR codes or special service request codes added to the ticket at the time of booking so that the airline can track the request and assist accordingly.
   • Wheelchair spillable wet-cell batteries are allowed but you must arrive early and notify the airline. These need to be kept in a special container.
   • Do not carry dead batteries, non-spillable wet batteries, and non-chargeable batteries on the plane.