Ah, travel season is finally here – sunshine, cruises, and adventures await! If you're flying with a mobility scooter for the first time—or you just want to be fully prepared for a smooth trip—this guide is here to help. With a bit of planning and the right steps, flying with your scooter can be easy, stress-free, and even enjoyable!
Whether it's a family vacation or a cruise departure, here’s what you need to know before heading to the airport.
1. Call the Airline’s Mobility Assistance Line Early
It's best to contact your airline at least 48 hours before your flight. This ensures they’re ready to meet your needs and provide the appropriate support.
Be ready to provide:
- Your full passenger details
- Flight number and destination
- Any specific assistance you’ll need for boarding, gate service, or transfers
Each airline operates slightly differently, so early and clear communication is the golden rule.
2. Prepare Your Mobility Scooter & Battery Details
Airlines require technical info about your device. It’s essential to gather these details in advance:
Key information includes:
- Battery type and watt-hour rating (Wh) — this is especially important if your scooter uses lithium-ion batteries
- Total dimensions and weight of your scooter (with the battery installed)
Tip: Keep this information printed or saved on your phone so you can provide it quickly at check-in.
3. Complete the Airline's Mobility Device Handling Form
Most major airlines now require a Mobility Device Handling Form to safely and efficiently transport your scooter.
Here's what to do:
- Download the form from the airline’s website (e.g., Delta Mobility Device Handling Form)
- Fill it out completely and print multiple copies
- Hand it to staff at check-in, and keep one for backup just in case
This step will significantly speed up the process and minimize questions at the counter.
4. Understand Your Check-In Options
Depending on your airline and airport, you have a few choices for checking in with your scooter:
- Main Ticket Counter Check-In: Great for getting questions answered directly and ensuring your device is tagged properly.
- Curbside Check-In: Available at some airports for added convenience.
Just be sure to inform airline staff that you're traveling with a mobility device so it's handled correctly from the start.
5. Use Gate Check for Easier Boarding
Yes, you can ride your scooter all the way to the boarding gate!
Here's how it works:
- Inform staff at the gate that you'd like to gate-check your scooter
- They'll tag your scooter and load it safely into the plane's cargo hold
- When you arrive, your scooter is usually returned right at the gate
This option gives you the freedom to move comfortably through the airport without needing a temporary wheelchair.
Conclusion: A Little Prep Goes a Long Way
Don't forget—you’ll need to follow these same steps on your return trip. We recommend speaking with airline staff upon arrival to reconfirm return procedures and avoid surprises.
Important: This guide provides general best practices, but always check directly with your airline. Regulations and procedures can vary widely between carriers and may change without notice.
Need Help? Call Us!
For more information or personalized assistance, call us at (770) 800-6681. We're here to help you travel with confidence and comfort.
