Conditions for the carriage of wheelchair batteries

If you are travelling with a battery-driven wheelchair, please note that carriage is subject to international dangerous goods regulations.

Wheelchairs driven by a non-spillable dry or gel-type battery

Carriage is permitted as

  • Checked baggage: Yes
  • Carry-on baggage: No

Carrier’s approval is required.



The following conditions must be observed:

  • The battery must be securely attached to the wheelchair or mobility device.
  • The battery terminals must be protected to prevent short circuits, e.g. by being enclosed within a battery container.

 

Batteries designed to be removed, e.g. in the case of foldable wheelchairs, the following also applies:

  • The battery must be removed.
  • The battery must be protected from short circuits by insulating the terminals (e.g. by taping over exposed terminals).
  • The removed battery must be transported in strong packaging in the cargo compartment.

Wheelchairs driven by a non-spillable, lithium-ion battery

Carriage is permitted as

  • Checked baggage: Yes
  • Carry-on baggage: No, with the exception of removable batteries which may be transported in carry-on baggage only.

Carrier’s approval is required.



The following conditions must be observed:

  • The battery must be securely attached to the wheelchair or mobility device.
  • The battery terminals must be protected to prevent short circuits, e.g. by being enclosed within a battery container.
  • Batteries must meet the requirements of the ‘UN Manual of Tests and Criteria’, Part III, Section 38.3. Proof must be provided when booking or checking in at the airport, e.g. by a certificate from the manufacturer, or a personal written confirmation.

 

Batteries designed to be removed, e.g. in the case of foldable wheelchairs, the following also applies:

  • Remove the battery.
  • The battery must be protected from short circuits by insulating the terminals (e.g. by taping over exposed terminals).
  • The batteries must be individually packed in a protective container provided by the passenger.
  • The battery’s watt-hour rating must not exceed 300 Wh.
  • A maximum of one spare battery not exceeding 300 Wh or two spare batteries each not exceeding 160 Wh may be carried.
  • The battery must be carried as additional carry-on baggage.

Wheelchairs driven by a wet battery

Carriage is permitted as

  • Checked baggage: Yes
  • Carry-on baggage: No

Carrier’s approval is required.


The following conditions must be observed:

  • The battery must be securely attached to the wheelchair or mobility device.
  • The battery must be disconnected.
  • The battery terminals must be protected to prevent short circuits, e.g. by being enclosed within a battery container.
  • The battery can only be accepted if it can be transported in an upright position. If this is not possible, the battery must be removed and the wheelchair can only be accepted without it. The battery can then only be shipped as cargo.