As technology advances, lithium batteries are becoming more prevalent in mobility devices, such as power wheelchairs, scooters, and other aids. With benefits like reducing the battery weight by 50%, higher capacity options, and a significantly longer travel range, it is clear why more users are choosing to go with lithium. However, the convenience experienced in everyday use takes a momentary pause when it comes to air travel, where bringing a lithium-powered device can present some complications at the airport. Navigating all of the rules and regulations might seem like a daunting task, especially for individuals who rely on their aid. Fear not! In this guide, we will outline the essentials of flying with a lithium battery-powered mobility device and steps to promote a smoother and less stressful experience.
Purchasing a Travel-Friendly Device
If you do not already have a device, or you are looking to purchase a lithium-powered mobility device for the purpose of traveling, make sure to look for certain key details before buying.
FAA-Approved Batteries: Many travel-friendly devices are designed specifically for air travel and come equipped with airline-compliant lithium batteries. Look for a device with a battery under 300 watt-hours, and if your choice of airline has stricter guidelines, find a battery that complies with their regulations. Also, models with FAA-approved lithium batteries sometimes come with a helpful specification sheet, which identifies the battery’s capacity and FAA compliance to make your airport experience a little easier.
Durability: Another important thing to look for is a reliable model made by a trusted and well-known manufacturer. Unfortunately, airline workers can be rough while transporting your mobility device before and after your flight, which can negatively impact your trip. Even though you can take preventative measures to reduce damages, it is never fully assured, so investing in a more durable model made with high-quality components can help alleviate some concerns.
Portability: Last but not least, you want to look for a model you can safely transport to and from the airport. Some models fold, others disassemble into lighter pieces, and bigger models require assistance or a lift system to transport. Think about what would be the easiest way to transport your device, and look for a device that will complement your specific needs.
In our experience, two models exemplify high-quality manufacturing and continually receive exceptional user reviews for airplane travel. The Jazzy Carbon by Pride Mobility is a carbon-fiber power wheelchair and weighs only 43.6 pounds in total. It is one of the most compact, durable, and travel-friendly lithium-powered power wheelchairs available. Due to its reliability and automatic folding feature, the Solax Transformer 2 by Enhance Mobility is the top pick in mobility scooters. Both models are great to keep in mind if you need a mobility device with FAA-approved lithium batteries!
Take a look at the video below for a step-by-step tutorial of flying with the Jazzy Carbon:
Researching Airlines
Before purchasing plane tickets, make sure to set aside some time to do thorough research. In the United States, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) provides guidelines for what is allowed and prohibited during flight. While most airlines abide by the FAA’s guidelines, some companies might have slightly different regulations. It is important to research the airline of your choice and see if their requirements will accommodate your device and needs. As aforementioned, most travel-friendly lithium-powered mobility devices come with a specification sheet exemplifying the battery’s watt-hours and proof of it being FAA-compliant. If your device comes with one of these sheets, store it with your other important documents and bring it on every trip to show airline employees.
Understanding Battery Regulations and Restrictions
The most important step in preparing for air travel with lithium battery-powered mobility devices is to understand the regulations imposed by the airlines and aviation authorities. The type of lithium batteries most commonly used in mobility devices is lithium-ion and it is essential to check the watt-hour (Wh) rating of your device’s battery to ensure it is FAA-compliant. You can calculate the watt-hours by multiplying the voltage and capacity of the battery (ex. 12v x 12ah = 144 watt-hours).
The FAA outlines restrictions for lithium-ion batteries as such: “Lithium-ion battery size is limited to 300 watt-hours (Wh). 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 read the full FAA webpage about “Wheelchairs and Mobility Devices” here.
Preparing For your Flight
Consult the User Manual: Refer to your mobility device’s user manual for any instructions on preparing it for air travel. Usually, travel-friendly models offer insight into transporting the product and details about the battery.
Labeling: Clearly label your mobility device, the battery/ies, and any removable accessories with your name and contact information. This step can be very helpful in case of loss or mishandling in the airline’s care.
Prepare the Battery: When traveling on an airplane with lithium batteries, it is important to remember that you must remove the battery(ies) from the device before boarding. At the end of the jetbridge, where you leave your scooter for the staff to stow, the battery must be removed from your device and placed in a fireproof travel bag to carry onto the plane.
Contact the Airline in Advance: After you verify that your device and battery can be accommodated by your airline of choice and you book tickets, make sure to call them before your trip. Notify the staff that you will be flying with a mobility device and inquire about any accommodations you require. Most airlines offer pre-boarding services for those with disabilities or mobility devices and manual wheelchairs, if necessary, for boarding and deplaning.
At the Airport
Arrive Early: On the day of your flight, it is best to arrive at the airport at least two hours before boarding time. This allows ample time to check in, go through security, and find your departure gate.
Checking-In: Once you arrive, head to the check-in desk of the appropriate airline. There, you can communicate with the staff about your mobility device, and any accommodations you need, and check any additional luggage. This is when they will ask about your mobility device’s battery, so make sure to have the information, specification sheet, or user manual ready.
Boarding: When you reach your departure gate, speak to the attendants about pre-boarding and the availability of a transfer chair, if needed. At boarding time, simply ride your device to the end of the jetbridge. Remove the key, any personal effects, and place the battery in a fireproof travel bag, and airline staff will help you board or transfer to a manual chair. Once seated, enjoy your flight!
Deplaning and Checking for Damage: Upon arrival, you will deplane or transfer to a manual wheelchair to get to the jetbridge. Airline staff will unload and bring your mobility device to the jetbridge, where most importantly, you should always check for damages before leaving the airport. Unfortunately, assistive devices can be mishandled by loading staff, especially if they are rough or do not listen to your instructions. If there is damage, take photos and immediately ask to speak with a Compliant Resolution Officer (CRO). Read more about post-damage steps here. If there are no visible damages, re-insert the lithium battery and continue to your destination!
Final Thoughts
The increasing popularity of lithium-powered mobility devices has undoubtedly revolutionized the industry, offering benefits such as reduced weight, higher capacity, and extended travel ranges. However, lithium-ion batteries can present challenges when it comes to air travel. Dealing with the many rules and regulations can be intimidating, especially for those who rely on their device. By understanding airline guidelines, adequately preparing for your flight, and communicating with the right staff, you can tackle your trip with confidence.
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I have had a Fold and Go wheelchair for 5 years and traveled on 13 different airlines and Alaska Airlines was the only one that required me to remove the battery from my wheelchair.
Well Alaska airlines got it right! If your battery was lithium ion and removable it must fly in the cabin with you. If it ever accidentally started a fire in the hold you would be amongst the dead as there is no firefighting in the hold.
Hi. Can you help me with mobility wheelchair.
Where can we rent or borrow?
There is no requirement that the lithium ion battery be placed in a fireproof bag. The regulations say it must be protected from shorting out and placed in a bag. When we set the regulations we used my Travelscoot battery and travel bag. I was on the ICAO Dangerous Goods committee that set the international regulations and the FAA mostly are identical .