Best Airline Approved Mobility Scooter Buying Guide in 2023
November 01, 20225 min read
You need an airline approved mobility scooter if you’d like to see the world but struggle to stand or walk for extended periods of time.
These types of mobility scooters have a couple of advantages, like being easy to fold and small enough to store into the trunk of a car. They are also equipped with the type of battery that is approved for airline use.
What Are The Federal Rules For Traveling With A Mobility Scooter?
There are a couple of rules to follow in this regard, all concerned with the safe transportation of batteries and electronics, which could be a hazard if not done properly.
Most battery types are allowed aboard planes as long as they pass a battery safety check. You are allowed to take an extra backup battery, which must go in your carry-on. If your batteries are lithium-ion, then you may bring two, as long as they do not exceed 160-watt hours.
Upon arrival your batteries and other electrical connections will be inspected to ensure safety. They will also check that your mobility scooter is safeguarded against accidental activation. In most cases this is not a problem, as a key is needed to start the device.
If your mobility scooter has extra pieces, like phone holders or cushions, take them off and carry them with you. In the case that your mobility scooter does not fit into the baggage hold door, the crew would have to disassemble it.
Call ahead and let the airline know that you are bringing along a mobility scooter, at least 48 hours ahead of time. Most airlines do not require this, but it greatly eases the boarding process.
Things To Look For When Shopping For A Scooter To Take On A Plane
There are a couple of things to consider when shopping for a mobility scooter to take on an airplane. These are things such as the type of battery, the weight and size, as well as its portability.
You want to make sure the frame of the mobility scooter is able to be disassembled or folded. Therefore, when shopping you will look at lightweight mobility scooters or folding mobility scooters. They weigh between 50 to 100 pounds.
Also, you might want to consider 3-wheel mobility scooters because they have such a tight turning radius and are able to take turns more efficiently. Some people prefer four wheelers because they provide more stability, but keep in mind they are not as maneuverable due to a higher turning radius. Remember, a lower turning radius means better maneuverability.
We have picked 5 of the best mobility scooters that are airline approved.
1. ZooMe Auto-Flex Folding Travel Scooter
The Zoome Autoflex is a 4-wheel airline approved lightweight mobility scooter which can fold and unfold in 15 seconds using a wireless key fob. It comes with a lightweight lithium battery, which Is airline approved.
The Zoome has a strong frame, a weight capacity of 300 pounds and a driving range of 13 miles. It comes with anti-tip wheels and reflectors on the front and the rear for added safety.
It is very light and weighs only 60 pounds. The wheels are flat free and the tires non-marking. It travels at a top speed of 4 mph and on arrival it is fully assembled. It has a turning radius of 53 inches. Not the tightest there is, but definitely maneuverable.
The Zoome Autoflex compresses down to 17x17x23.5- inches when folded, and its armrests are padded and can be adjusted.
2. Enhance Mobility Solax Transformer 4 Wheel Electric Folding Scooter
The Solax Transformer by Enhance Mobility is an ultra-lightweight 4-wheel airline approved folding mobility scooter. It easily folds into a compact shape with the push of a button. It comes equipped with a lithium-ion dry cell battery.
It weighs very little, only 53 pounds, and thus there’s no need to take it apart when traveling or storing. Once folded it is about the size of a suitcase and can be rolled behind you with the use of the handle.
The Solax Transformer has a turning radius of 55-inches. The seat is 17-inches, small enough to fit into narrow doorways or store in the entryway or laundry room. The seat has adjustable padded armrests.
It has a top speed of 3.7 mph, a weight capacity of 300 pounds and a driving range of 13.7 miles.
3. iLiving V8 Foldable Electric Mobility Scooter
The V8 from iLiving is at 40 pounds the lightest 3-wheel airline approved folding mobility scooter featured in this article. In honor of the innovation that went in the design of this mobility scooter, it has become a member of CES 2020 Innovation Awards Honoree.
It is built from heavy duty aircraft grade aluminum, making it not just light in weight but very durable. Just like the Solax Transformer, the V8 can be pulled behind you with the handle when folded.
It has a top speed of 3.7 mph, a driving range of 15 miles and a weight capacity of 275 pounds. It has a turning radius of 52.7 inches.
This 3-wheeler is equipped with a front wheel drive system with a freewheel option and intelligent electromagnetic brakes.
4. EV Rider Transport AF+ Folding Electric Mobility Scooter
The EV Rider Transport AF+ is a popular airline-approved mobility scooter. It is very light and weigh only 44 pounds. The battery is an 8.7 Ah lithium battery.
Folding is easy and can be done with the use of a remote control. Once folded it is compressed to 17.3x16.5x28.7-inches, small enough to store away in the trunk of a car.
Just like the S542 Yoga, the EV Rider Transport AF+ also has two front wheels of about the same design, which lends stability to the scooter. It has a turning radius of 31-inches.
The Transport AF+ has a weight capacity of 250 pounds, a top speed of 3.8 mph and a driving range of 10 miles. It also has a delta tiller that can be adjusted, and a dual hand throttle control.
The HandyScoot folding 3-wheel travel mobility scooter is light in weight and therefore easy to transport. It weighs just 42 pounds and is equipped with an 8 Amp li-ion battery that is airline-approved.
Despite the fact that it is so light, it has a weight capacity of 350 pounds. It is designed in such a way that it has low ground clearance, making it easy to mount the scooter. This is especially helpful if you experience pain in the legs.
When folded it compresses down to 27x39x22-inches. Small enough to carry in the hands and store away safely in the trunk of a car.
The HandyScoot has a driving range of 15 miles, and an impressive top speed of 9 mph for such a small scooter. It has the tightest turning radius of the five at 26-inches.
Financing Available
Are there financing options available?
Yes, most of the mobility scooters in our online store are eligible for financing through our partnership with Klarna, which offers 0% interest rates and great terms for those who qualify! This makes it easy and affordable to get the mobility device that you need to stay independent and connected as you age or deal with a disability.
Whether you need help covering the cost of your initial purchase or simply want to make monthly payments, mobility scooters are accessible for most budgets.
So, if you're looking for an electric scooter or wheelchair that can help you maintain your independence, be sure to explore the financing options available for each model. At the top of each product page, you’ll find a financing button. Simply click on it to learn more and prequalify!
To talk to our friendly team of experts, simply call: 800-498-2560
