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Electric Mobility Aid -
Air Travel Pack
Useful guidance and information for safe air travel with your electric mobility device. Complete online, save to your device, print blank copies, or download with your information filled in.
Flying with your electric mobility aid
This is a guide only. Requirements vary significantly between airlines and countries. Always check with your specific airline before booking and travelling. Airlines have the final authority on whether passengers and equipment can fly.
Before you travel
Check airline requirements BEFORE booking
Contact potential airlines during your planning phase. Each airline has different policies, size limitations, and documentation requirements. Confirm your specific device can be transported before purchasing tickets.
Know your device and review manufacturer guidelines
Familiarise yourself thoroughly with your mobility aid. In particular, you should know how to isolate the battery (disconnect or switch it off completely) and be prepared to demonstrate this to airline staff if requested.
Read your mobility equipment manufacturer's travel information. Different models have specific handling instructions. Prepare to take your owner's manual (or a copy) to the airport — it contains essential information about battery isolation procedures, handling instructions, and device specifications that staff may need to review.
- How to completely switch off the device
- How to isolate or disconnect the battery
- Location of the battery isolation switch or release mechanism
- Whether the battery is removable or permanently installed
- How to engage freewheel mode for manual pushing
Understand UN38.3 battery certification and test summary
All spare and installed lithium ion batteries should comply with UN38.3 safety testing requirements.
Travellers should request a full UN38.3 test summary from the manufacturer - not just a certificate.
A test summary proves that the battery has passed all UN38.3 safety tests (altitude, temperature, vibration, shock, and short-circuiting).
Travellers should carry a hardcopy or have access to (e.g., via a downloaded PDF or link to the mobility aid manufacturer's website) a UN38.3 test summary, which provides official evidence that all required tests have been completed successfully.
- Includes manufacturer and test laboratory details
- Lists battery model and description
- Contains test report ID, date, and signature
- Confirms all tests (T.1–T.8) were completed successfully
⚠️ Applies to all lithium ion batteries used in mobility aids, e-mobility devices, and battery add-ons.
Study aviation authority guidelines
Review official information from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), International Air Transport Association (IATA), and destination-country aviation authorities for the latest regulations.
Consider additional insurance
Airlines are responsible for transit damage but may not cover full replacement costs. Check if your home or travel insurance can be extended to include your mobility aid.
At the airport
Prepare your device for travel
Remove and pack detachable items (headrests, armrests, leg supports) separately. Protect vulnerable components and bring tools for reassembly. Be aware your device may be exposed to weather during handling.
Request special assistance early
Provide full device and battery details when booking. Early notification helps airlines and ground handlers prepare, reducing the risk of delay.
Arrive early and communicate
Arrive early (3 hours for long-haul, 2 for short-haul). Speak to airline staff at the gate to confirm handling arrangements and loading method.
Be prepared to demonstrate how to switch off your device and isolate the battery if asked.
Prepare and carry documentation
Keep all documents accessible: UN38.3 test summary, owner's manual, device dimensions, and emergency contacts.
Use high-visibility labels reminding handlers to lift from the frame, not the armrests.
When you arrive
Inspect your equipment immediately
Check your equipment as soon as it's returned. Photograph any damage and report it immediately.
Even if undamaged, check fastenings, controls, and tyres before use.
Know your rights
For passenger rights and accessibility information:
- UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA): www.caa.co.uk/passengers
- European Regulation EC1107/2006
- IATA Guidance on battery and mobility aid transport
Information for Airlines and Handlers
Airlines may have their own official documentation requirements. This form is designed to help you gather and organize the information airlines typically need. Always check with your airline about their specific forms and requirements.
Option 2: Download blank PDF to fill in by hand
Need help? Contact your mobility aid manufacturer for device specifications and transport guidance.
Batteries – UN38.3 Test Summary Requirement
What is UN38.3?
All lithium ion batteries — including those used in electric mobility aids, e-mobility devices, and battery add-ons or boosters — must meet United Nations Test and Criteria Section 38.3 (UN38.3).
This ensures batteries have passed rigorous safety tests for altitude, vibration, temperature extremes, shock, and short-circuiting, proving they are safe for air transport.
Why it matters
Airlines and ground handlers can only accept lithium ion batteries that have been proven safe through UN38.3 testing.
How to obtain it
Request the UN38.3 test summary directly from your battery or mobility aid manufacturer (not a reseller or dealer).
It should be available for every lithium ion battery model used in your equipment. You can usually download this from the manufacturer's technical or safety documentation portal.
What a genuine test summary includes
- Manufacturer's name and contact details
- Test laboratory name and contact details
- Battery model and description
- Unique test report identification number
- Date of issue and signature of responsible test officer
- Confirmation that all UN38.3 tests (T.1–T.8) were successfully completed
Traveller tip
💡 Carry both printed and digital copies of your UN38.3 test summary when flying. Airlines may ask to review it at check-in or during pre-clearance of your electric mobility aid.
Further information
For more information on UN38.3 compliance and battery transport safety:
- UN Manual of Tests and Criteria, Section 38.3: unece.org
- International Air Transport Association (IATA): www.iata.org
- UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA): www.caa.co.uk/passengers
The Electric Mobility Aid - Air Travel Pack has been developed in consultation with the Aviation Accessibility Panel. The Air Travel Pack is part of the Flier Friendly Programme, an Aviation Services UK initiative to recognise and support mobility aid manufacturers who are committed to improving the experience of air passengers using their products.
Disclaimer
The information provided on this page is for general guidance only. Whilst we endeavour to ensure the accuracy and currency of the content, Aviation Services UK (Trade Association) Ltd (“we”, “us” or “our”) makes no representations, warranties or guarantees (express or implied) as to the completeness, reliability, suitability or availability of the information. Your use of the information is at your own risk.
We do not accept any liability for any loss or damage (including indirect or consequential loss) arising from or in connection with your use of the information or reliance on it. The inclusion of any links or external references does not imply endorsement of the content by us, and we are not responsible for the content of those linked sites.
Before you act upon any information provided, you should seek independent advice appropriate to your circumstances. In particular, you must always check with your airline (or other relevant operator) for the most up-to-date requirements and policies, as the rules, laws and regulations may change without notice.
By using this site you accept that this disclaimer forms part of the terms under which you access and use our website.