Wheelchairs and Walking Sticks
Allowed
Manual aids allowed in cabin after security check. Battery wheelchairs need advance approval.
Quick answer
Airlines prioritise accessible travel, but they need notice to arrange aisle chairs, ambulifts, or extra manpower. Booking assistance 48 hours ahead guarantees the right equipment is waiting at departure and arrival.
Security screens every mobility aid. Walking sticks go through X-ray, then receive a special tag so you can keep them. Manual chairs are swabbed and returned immediately; battery chairs may require partial disassembly so crew can stow them upright in the hold.
Lithium wheelchair batteries are regulated like power banks. Remove them, tape the terminals, and carry them onboard. Gel or dry-cell batteries can stay attached if terminals are insulated and the chairās circuitry is secured.
Before travel
- āRequest wheelchair assistance or special seating via airline call centre.
- āPrint medical certificates if you need to use your own chair to the gate.
- āMeasure wheelchair dimensions to ensure they fit aircraft cargo doors.
At the airport
- āArrive 90 minutes early for domestic flights to finish documentation.
- āRemove detachable accessories (cushions, bags) before handing the chair to staff.
- āExplain brake systems or fold mechanisms so ground crew handle it correctly.
Battery handling for wheelchairs
| Battery type | Procedure | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Manual / none | Check chair at gate | Tag and return at arrival |
| Dry cell / gel | Can stay attached | Insulate terminals |
| Lithium | Remove and carry in cabin | Follow power bank limits |
Do this
- ā Attach instruction cards describing how to fold or detach parts.
- ā Use brightly coloured straps to secure loose cables before handover.
- ā Carry spare parts (joystick knobs, fuses) in your cabin bag.
Avoid this
- ā ļø Donāt hand over mobility aids without labelling themāmultiple chairs can travel on one flight.
- ā ļø Donāt leave medication or valuables in wheelchair pouches heading to the hold.
- ā ļø Avoid using damaged chairs without notifying staff; they might worsen in transit.
FAQ
Q. Can I use my own wheelchair inside the terminal?
Yes. You can ride it up to the gate and transfer to the aisle chair just before boarding.
Q. Do I need to pay for wheelchair assistance?
Noāairlines must provide it free of charge under DGCA rules.
Q. What if my wheelchair is damaged?
Report it immediately before leaving the airport. Airlines are liable for repair or replacement under the passenger charter.
Tips before you fly
- āļø Use AirTag-style trackers on your chair in case it is loaded separately.
- āļø Carry a lightweight travel cushion for use on airline-provided wheelchairs.
- āļø Photograph the chair at check-in to document its condition.
Related YourTravelGuide guides
Official references
India DGCA guidelines ā simplified
Verified on: 6 Dec 2025
Disclaimer: Aviation and security rules change frequently. Always confirm with your airline, airport help desk, or CISF officers before you travel.