Taking Your Mobility Scooter or Power Wheelchair on a Delta Airlines Flight

Taking Your Mobility Scooter or Power Wheelchair on a Delta Airlines Flight

Delta understands the importance of providing an accessible travel experience and appreciate your patience as they strive to meet your specific mobility needs throughout your journey. Your comfort and convenience are their priority, and they are committed to assisting you every step of the way. To ensure that they are fully prepared to accommodate your requirements, they kindly request that you inform them of any mobility needs at least 48 hours before your flight. By doing so, they can provide the best possible service tailored to your individual circumstances.

Key Accessibility Services and Options for Travelers with Mobility Devices

Delta is dedicated to ensuring all passengers have a comfortable and seamless travel experience, regardless of their mobility needs. Below, we have outlined various services and options available to you during your Delta flight. 

Request Delta Wheelchair Service

After booking your flight, you can request one or more of the following wheelchair services that will assist you from the moment you arrive at the airport until you board the aircraft. It’s important to note that Delta does not provide electronic power scooters for personal use. You can submit your request through the "Accessible Services" section in the "My Trips" page on the Delta website, or by calling our dedicated service line at 404-209-3434 (dial 711 for relay services).

Airport Wheelchair Service

This service begins at the curbside of the airport and continues through check-in, security checks, and all the way to your departure gate. Delta agents will assist you with getting through the airport to ensure that you experience minimal stress or discomfort. The service includes help navigating the jet bridge and will continue until you are comfortably seated on the plane.

Aisle Chair Service*

Once you have reached the jet bridge, Delta staff will assist you with boarding the aircraft. They will help you into the aisle chair, which is specially designed to fit down the narrow aisles of most aircraft. This service ensures that you are able to comfortably make your way from the entry of the plane to your designated seat.

Onboard Wheelchair Service

Once aboard, Delta provides a specially designed aircraft wheelchair to assist with in-flight movement. This onboard wheelchair is specifically crafted to navigate the aisles and access most lavatories on the aircraft, helping you maintain comfort throughout your flight.

Take Your Mobility Scooter on a Delta Flight

Bring Your Personal Wheelchair or Scooter

Delta fully recognizes that your personal mobility device is an essential part of your travel experience. Whether you are using a manual wheelchair or a battery-powered scooter, they are committed to accommodating your device to ensure your mobility is not disrupted during your journey. Please follow the steps below to ensure a smooth process when bringing your personal wheelchair or scooter.

1. Measure Your Wheelchair or Scooter

It is essential to measure your wheelchair or scooter to determine whether it can fit on the aircraft. For your convenience, Delta recommends measuring the device at its smallest dimensions (when not expanded) and submitting those measurements to them. Although this is an estimate, it helps them assess the likelihood that your mobility device will fit within the cargo hold of the aircraft. However, it’s important to note that this measurement does not guarantee that the device will be approved for travel.

For flights operated by one of Delta's global airline partners, please refer to their own website for confirmation of the device’s fit in their cargo hold.

2. Provide Details of Your Mobility Device 

Whether you use a manual wheelchair or a battery-operated scooter, it is important to provide Delta with detailed information about your device. This should be done no less than 48 hours before your flight. You can submit your request through the Fly Delta app, the "My Trips" page on their website, or by calling our accessibility service line at 404-209-3434 (dial 711 for relay services).

It’s essential that you inform them about the specific measurements of your wheelchair or scooter. If the device exceeds the maximum dimensions at its smallest size, they may need to find an alternative solution to accommodate your needs. In some cases, this may include booking you on a different aircraft better suited to fit your device.

3. Preparing for Travel with Your Mobility Device

To further streamline your travel experience, they may ask that you print out the Mobility Device Handling Form before your trip and bring it with you on the day of travel. This form helps Delta agents understand the unique needs of your device and ensures that your mobility aid is handled carefully and properly throughout your journey. You may either complete the form in advance or work with an agent at check-in. In addition to the form, please provide any disassembly or reassembly instructions, along with information about the device’s battery type if applicable.

Once completed, attach the form to your wheelchair or scooter, and a gate agent will assist you as necessary. If your device is non-battery-powered and manually collapsible, there may be an option to store it on board. For more details about this possibility, we encourage you to ask a gate agent on the day of travel.

Bring an Assistive Device 

In addition to your mobility device, you may need to bring an assistive device such as a cane, walker, or crutches. These devices are welcome, and Delta provides options for their transport during your flight. Depending on the item, some may be stored on board, while others will be checked at the gate as you board the aircraft.

For those requiring further assistance, such as needing help getting to your seat, you may also request a “meet and assist” service or an aisle chair. Delta is dedicated to ensuring your travel experience is as smooth as possible.

Additionally, if you are carrying medical devices or medication, please review Delta's guidelines for these items, as they may require special handling or additional planning. We encourage you to familiarize yourself with their Medical Devices and Medication section for more detailed information.

 

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Understanding Travel with a Mobility Device

Traveling with a mobility device requires a bit of extra consideration at each stage of the journey, from check-in to arrival. Delta has designed a comprehensive approach to assist you at every step of the process.

Check-In

When you arrive at the airport, you’ll check in just like any other passenger. Delta staff will ensure that your mobility device is safely stored and that you have everything you need for a comfortable journey.

Boarding

They will prioritize your needs during the boarding process. If you require any special assistance, their staff will help you board the aircraft in a manner that minimizes stress and discomfort.

Onboard

Once onboard, they will provide any necessary assistance with your mobility device, and you can rest assured that our crew is prepared to ensure your comfort and safety throughout the flight.

Arrival

Upon arrival at your destination, Delta will assist you in retrieving your mobility device. If you have any specific concerns upon arrival, our team will be available to help resolve any issues.

Taking Your Mobility Scooter on a Delta Flight

Frequently Asked Questions

Here is a list of frequently asked questions to help address any concerns you might have about traveling with a mobility device. Some of the most common inquiries include:

  • What if my wheelchair or device measurements exceed the limits?
    • In certain cases, a device may exceed the dimensions of an aircraft's cargo door or may be too large to fit in an upright position. While some mobility devices can be loaded on their side, not all devices are designed for this. We recommend contacting your device manufacturer prior to travel to ensure that side-loading will not cause damage. If the manufacturer advises that the device should remain upright, please reach out to us at least 48 hours before your flight at 404-209-3434 (or dial 711 for relay services) for further assistance.
  • How does the battery in my personal wheelchair or scooter affect my travel plans?
    • Delta kindly requests that you inform them of your device's battery type at least 48 hours prior to your flight. This allows us to adhere to the appropriate U.S. Federal Dangerous Goods Handling Procedures and ensure the safe transport of your device. The battery type in your device will impact your travel preparations:

      • Lithium-ion batteries: No restrictions apply. Please follow the steps outlined in their "Bring Your Personal Wheelchair" section.
      • Wet-cell spillable batteries: Require special handling. Please contact Delta at 404-209-3434 (or dial 711 for relay services) at least 48 hours before your flight.
      • Dry-cell and gel-cell non-spillable batteries: Also require special handling. Confirm with the manufacturer that the battery can be transported on its side, then follow the steps in their "Bring Your Personal Wheelchair" section.
  • Can I request an onboard wheelchair for any Delta flight?
    • Not all aircraft operated by Delta are equipped to accommodate onboard wheelchairs. To ensure your needs are met, please contact them directly for assistance in booking a flight on an appropriate aircraft. You can reach them at 404-209-3434 (dial 711 for relay services).
  • What if I’m unable to go up or down steps?
    • If you are unable to navigate steps, please inform them prior to your trip. After booking your flight, you can request Accessible Services via the 'My Trips' page or the Fly Delta app. Alternatively, you may contact them at 404-209-3434 (dial 711 for relay services) for assistance.
  • Can I store my wheelchair or mobility device on board?
    • If your non-battery-operated wheelchair or mobility device complies with the size restrictions for approved storage space on the aircraft, you may stow your collapsible device during the flight. Wheelchairs are given priority over other carry-on items.

      Typically, the device should not exceed the dimensions of 13” x 36” x 42”, although these limits may vary depending on the aircraft. Please verify with a gate agent prior to boarding to confirm whether your device can be stowed or if it needs to be checked.

      If your device is eligible for stowing, Delta agents will ensure it can be secured without the risk of accidental in-flight activation. If they are unable to guarantee this, Delta will disconnect the battery post connectors and wrap each connector with tape to prevent electrical shorts during travel.

      If your device needs to be checked at the gate, it will be returned to you upon arrival at your destination or connecting airport for use.

  • Will I have wheelchair or mobility assistance at my connecting airport or for my connecting flight?
    • Depending on the type of service you requested, once your travel reservation is confirmed, it should accommodate your mobility needs throughout airports, including for connecting flights.
  • What should I do if I experience a delay or issue with wheelchair assistance at my connection?
    • If you have confirmed your accessible services request before travel, please be assured that your service has been arranged.  Should you require further assistance, please reach out to a Delta representative for support.
  • What happens if my wheelchair or mobility device is damaged during my trip?
    • We recognize that your mobility device is an important extension of your independence. They will make every effort to handle your device with the utmost care during transport, in the event that it is damaged, we kindly ask that you speak with a Delta representative before leaving the airport to connect with a Complaint Resolution Officer (CRO). If you have already departed, please contact them at 404-209-3434 (dial 711 for relay services) along with your flight details, so that they can assist you promptly.

These questions reflect some of the concerns travelers commonly have, and Delta is happy to assist in resolving any issues that arise during your journey. If your experience deviates from your expectations, please reach out to the Delta team immediately for support.

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In Conclusion

Delta is committed to providing an accessible and supportive travel experience for all passengers. By sharing your mobility needs with them in advance, you allow them to better serve you, ensuring that your journey is as comfortable and seamless as possible. Should you have any further questions or require assistance, their dedicated team is always ready to assist. Delta looks forward to serving you, and we at Suncoast Mobility wish you a pleasant and accessible travel experience.

To discuss your special discount on our foldable travel mobility scooters please call us at 727-537-6275.

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