The Complete Travel Guide: Air Travel with a Mobility Scooter

May 11, 2025

You’ve either purchased a mobility scooter or are considering one—and now you’re wondering whether it’s suitable for air travel. The good news? It is, and the process is simpler than you might think. With the right preparation, flying with a mobility scooter can be smooth, stress-free, and even enjoyable.

This comprehensive guide offers step-by-step instructions for everything you need to know about flying with a mobility scooter. From planning and check-in to security procedures, in-flight arrangements, and post-landing logistics, this article is your go-to resource—whether you're flying with a scooter for the first time or looking to improve your travel routine. We also highlight foldable models like the ATTO, the only folding scooter built specifically for travel.

Plan Ahead

Before booking your flight, it's important to familiarise yourself with the airline’s policies and requirements. Most carriers are happy to accommodate, but advance notice is essential for a seamless experience.

Initial steps to take:

• Contact the airline at least 48 hours before your scheduled departure. Inform them that you’ll be travelling with a mobility scooter so they can add it to your reservation and arrange appropriate support.
• Have your scooter details ready: dimensions, weight, and battery specifications. This helps the airline confirm the scooter meets safety and storage standards.
• Ask the following questions:
  • Can I use my scooter to reach the boarding gate?
  • Will it be returned to me at the arrival gate or with checked luggage?
  • Is assistance available for boarding and navigating the terminal?

Each airline has its own process, so don’t rely on assumptions or past experiences—always double-check.

Choosing the Right Scooter for Air Travel

If you fly often or plan to travel extensively, it's worth investing in a scooter designed with travel in mind. These models are lightweight, compact, and easy for airline staff to handle.

The ATTO is a prime example. It’s the only folding mobility scooter purpose-built for travel. It separates into two lightweight parts and folds within seconds, easily fitting into most overhead compartments. It also comes with an airline-approved battery, removing any uncertainty around flight compliance. Choosing a travel-ready scooter simplifies the entire flying experience.

What to Bring to the Airport

When you arrive at the airport, head straight to the check-in desk and inform the airline staff that you’re travelling with a mobility scooter. They’ll provide essential tags and walk you through any airline-specific procedures.

Pack the following items:

• Scooter documentation, either printed or digital, including dimensions, weight, and battery type (including watt-hour rating).
• Battery certification showing that your lithium battery complies with safety regulations (generally under 300Wh).
• User manual and battery label, which help airline staff verify compliance if needed.
• A visible luggage tag on your scooter with your name, contact number, and destination. This is vital in case the scooter is misplaced or needs to be delivered separately.

In most airports, you’ll be allowed to ride your scooter through to the gate. It will be taken from you just before boarding and returned at your destination.

Going Through Airport Security

Security checks for mobility scooters differ slightly but are generally straightforward.

Here’s what to expect:

• You’ll likely remain seated during the process, and a staff member will guide you to a separate checkpoint.
• Staff may swab parts of your scooter for trace detection and inspect beneath the seat or battery compartment.
• If you’re able, you may be asked to walk through a scanner. Otherwise, a pat-down will be performed while you remain seated.
• Lithium-ion batteries must be removed before screening and carried in your hand luggage.

You can call TSA Cares (or the equivalent in your region) in advance for personalised guidance and assistance. Having help on-site makes the process quicker and less stressful.

Understanding Battery Regulations

Battery restrictions can cause confusion, but a little knowledge goes a long way:

• Most airlines allow lithium-ion batteries up to 300Wh. The ATTO and many modern scooters comply with this.
• Spare batteries (one under 300Wh or two under 160Wh) can be carried in hand luggage.
• Remove the scooter’s battery for screening and carry it with you in the cabin.
• Use protective tape or a battery case to cover terminals and avoid short circuits.

Keep your battery's watt-hour documentation easily accessible—it speeds up the screening process significantly.

Boarding the Aircraft

Boarding with a mobility scooter is generally simple with good communication:

• Gate-check your scooter at the jet bridge, then transfer to an aisle chair or walk to your seat. The scooter will be stored in the hold and returned to you at the arrival gate.
• If your scooter meets airline requirements for size and weight, it may be allowed in the overhead compartment.
• Before handing over your scooter:
  • Remove the battery and accessories
  • Disable the scooter and remove the key
  • Keep essential items with you

During the Flight

Scooters cannot be used in-flight, but keep this in mind:

• Let the cabin crew know if you’ll need help reaching the toilet or disembarking.
• Airlines often provide aisle chairs for in-flight mobility.
• Keep the battery close by for easy reinstallation after landing.

Arrival at Your Destination

After landing, wait until your scooter is returned to you—either at the aircraft door or gate.

If it’s delayed or missing, notify airport staff immediately. They can assist with alternative transport or recovery. Once you receive it, perform a quick inspection and report any damage straight away to begin the claims process. Airlines are responsible for repair or replacement if damage occurred during the flight.

Know Your Rights

Under the Air Carrier Access Act, your rights as a traveller with a mobility device are protected.

• Your scooter travels free of charge, not counting toward baggage limits.
• You are entitled to priority boarding, terminal assistance, and help loading/unloading.
• If your scooter is damaged, the airline is legally required to repair or replace it.
• For unresolved issues, contact the airline’s Complaints Resolution Official (CRO), who handles accessibility concerns.

Final Thoughts

It’s perfectly normal to feel nervous before flying with your mobility scooter—but it gets easier with experience. With the right preparation and a travel-optimised scooter like the ATTO, you can enjoy independence and confidence wherever you go.

Happy travels!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I ride my scooter through the airport and to the aircraft?
Yes. Most airlines allow scooter use through to the gate, where it will be checked just before boarding.

Do I need to remove the battery before boarding?
Yes. Lithium-ion batteries must be removed and carried in your hand luggage for safety compliance.

Are there any extra fees for travelling with a scooter?
No. Mobility scooters are considered assistive devices and must be carried free of charge.

What if my scooter is damaged during the flight?
The airline is responsible for repairing or replacing damaged assistive equipment. Report any issues immediately upon arrival.

Can I bring a spare battery?
Yes—either one spare under 300Wh or two under 160Wh, stored in your carry-on bag.

What should I expect from security screening?
You’ll be guided through a manual screening process, with your scooter inspected separately. Allow extra time for this.

Can a foldable scooter be carried inside the cabin?
If compact enough—like the ATTO—it may fit in the overhead compartment. Always confirm with your airline in advance.

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