Travelling with a disability or reduced mobility

Flying with a bleeding disorder and mobility issues requires a bit of extra coordination, but current 2026 regulations have made the process more predictable. Here is the updated guidance based on the latest standards from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and IATA.

Flying with an Electric Mobility Aid

Planning for a Smooth Trip

If you rely on an electric wheelchair or scooter, these steps help protect your equipment and your health during transit.

  • Contact the Airline 48 Hours in Advance: You must inform your airline or tour operator at least 48 hours before departure. This is a legal requirement under accessibility laws to guarantee the assistance you need.
  • Battery Safety Regulations (IATA 2026): Modern lithium-ion batteries are strictly regulated.
    • Watt-hour (Wh) Limits: Most airlines allow one battery up to 300Wh or two batteries up to 160Wh each.
    • Storage: Spare batteries or power banks must now be carried in the cabin, stored under the seat in front of you (not in overhead lockers), and must not be charged during the flight.
  • Provide Equipment Details: You will need to provide the make, model, weight, and dimensions (folded and unfolded). For people with bleeding disorders, being able to remain in your own chair until the aircraft door is vital to avoid unnecessary physical strain.
  • The “Airsafe” Plug and Manual: If your device has a specific “immobilisation” method (like an Airsafe plug), ensure you know how to use it. Bringing the manual is still highly recommended to help the ground crew handle the device safely.
  • Free Mobility Allowance: You are legally entitled to bring two items of mobility equipment free of charge. This does not count towards your standard baggage allowance.

Bleeding Disorder & Medical Supplies

  • Medication Volume: You can carry large quantities of medication (such as factor concentrate) in your hand luggage. This must be clearly labelled with your name on each box. If you are carrying more than 100ml of liquid medication, you must have a medical certificate or a copy of your prescription to show at security.
  • Medical Equipment: Items like needles and syringes are permitted, but they should be kept in their original packaging with a supporting letter from your doctor.
  • Cooling Equipment: If your medication requires cold storage, you can bring a small cool bag with gel packs. Some airlines may offer to store medication in the aircraft fridge, but you should not rely on this; it is safer to use your own validated cooling bag.

Damage and Compensation

Aviation laws are currently being updated (via the Aviation (Accessibility) Bill 2026) to better protect passengers.

  • Liability: Airlines are liable for damage to mobility equipment. While international limits used to be capped at roughly £1,300, new domestic rules and enhanced insurance options are removing these caps to cover the full replacement cost of high-end custom chairs.
  • Temporary Replacements: If your chair is damaged during a flight to or from the UK, the airport is responsible for providing a temporary alternative while yours is repaired.

Official Sources for Further Reading

Gov.uk: Transport and Disability Guidance

UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA): Travelling with medicines and mobility equipment

IATA: 2026 Dangerous Goods Regulations for Passengers

Disclaimer: The content of this page has been provided by GOV.UK and caa.co.uk are for general information only and are subject to change without notice.