Assistive Devices

Delta allows a customer to travel with a mobility/assistive device that requires batteries as well as spare batteries used to power such devices. Both spillable (wet-cell) and non-spillable (gel) batteries are allowed as checked baggage provided the following:

• Battery must be securely attached to assistive device
  
• Battery must be able to be visually inspected for signs of damage or leakage
  
• When transporting non-spillable batteries, the terminal leads must be detached and insulated with tape to prevent accidental short circuits 
• Gel type batteries do not require the battery to be disconnected provided the battery terminals are insulated to prevent accidental short circuits
• Exception: a non-spillable battery may be transported without disconnecting the battery if
  • The non-spillable battery contained in the wheelchair is completely enclosed in a rigid case or compartment that is integral to its design of the wheelchair or another mobility device
  • The design of the wheelchair must provide an effective means of preventing accidental activation such as:
    • Turning off or removing the key
    • Turning a kill switch
    • Removing a power arm
    • Taping a switch in closed position

Please note: If the assistive device cannot be loaded on the aircraft in an upright position, spillable batteries must be removed and packaged in special packaging provided by Delta.

Additional restrictions apply to lithium ion and lithium metal batteries, please see information below.

Lithium Ion Batteries

• Customers are permitted to travel with lithium ion batteries that contain a maximum of 160-watt hours per battery.
  
  • Any lithium ion battery containing more than 160-watt hours is prohibited on all passenger aircraft.
• Lithium ion batteries installed in a personal electronic device can be transported as checked or carry-on baggage. 
  
• Lithium ion batteries not installed in a device (spares) must be in carry-on baggage and no more than two (2) spares between 100 and 160-watt hours are allowed.   
  

For more information on traveling with batteries please review the DOT Safe Travel Tips and the supporting file for Acceptance Guidelines.   

Lithium Ion Battery Powered Mobility Devices

The Department of Transportation (DOT) requires that Delta allow customers to travel with lithium ion powered mobility devices within the federal restrictions listed below. 

• For lithium ion-powered mobility devices that are collapsible and contain an easily removed battery:
  • Customers may carry on the 1 installed battery, as well as 2 spare batteries. 
  • Each battery must be capable of less than 300 watt-hours or contain less than 25 grams of lithium content, which is labeled on the battery.
• For mobility devices where the lithium battery is installed as an integral part of the device:
  
  • The device must be carried in the cargo compartment. It will not count toward a customer's baggage allowance and will be transported free of charge.
  • The device must be turned off. There must be at least 1 method of preventing accidental activation.
  • There is no battery size limit.
  • The battery casing, if exposed or accessible, must provide protection to the battery. 

Spare Lithium Ion Batteries

Customers are permitted to travel with no more than 3 lithium ion batteries (one installed in a personal electronic device and two spares).  Spares must be in carry-on baggage and cannot be gate checked.

Each battery must hold no more than 160 watt-hours. Any lithium ion battery capable of more than 160 watt-hours is prohibited on all passenger aircraft.

A lithium ion battery installed in a personal electronic device can be transported as checked or carry-on baggage.

How to properly transport spare lithium batteries:     

• Pack spare batteries in carry-on baggage.
  
• Keep spare batteries in the original retail packaging, to prevent unintentional activation or short-circuiting.
  
• If the original packaging is not available, effectively insulate battery terminals by isolating spare batteries from contact with other batteries and metal.
  
  • Place each battery in its own protective case, plastic bag, or package.
    
  • Do not permit a loose battery to come in contact with metal objects, such as coins, keys, or jewelry.
• Loose lithium batteries must have tape places across the battery's contacts to isolate the terminals and prevent short circuiting.
• Take steps to prevent crushing, puncturing, or putting a high degree of pressure on the battery, as this can cause an internal short-circuit, resulting in overheating.

For more information on traveling with batteries please review the DOT Safe Travel Tips and Delta’s Acceptance Guidelines.

Lithium Battery Powered Self-Balancing Personal Transportation Devices (i.e hoverboards)

Delta Air Lines does not accept lithium battery powered self-balancing personal transportation devices (i.e., hoverboards). These items are prohibited as both carry-on and checked baggage on all mainline and Delta Connection flights.