Delta Air Lines Medical Device Policy (2025 Update)

Introduction

For passengers who rely on medical equipment, air travel can be challenging, but Delta Air Lines offers comprehensive policies to accommodate travelers with medical needs. Whether you require a portable oxygen concentrator (POC), CPAP machine, insulin pump, or mobility aid, Delta provides clear guidelines on how to transport and use medical devices on board.

This guide explores Delta’s policies on medical devices, including carry-on allowances, required approvals, battery guidelines, and in-flight usage rules to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey.

Delta Air Lines Medical Device Policy

1. Delta’s Medical Equipment Policy Overview

Delta Air Lines allows passengers to bring essential medical equipment at no extra cost. Unlike standard baggage, medical devices do not count toward your carry-on limit, ensuring passengers can travel with all necessary medical supplies.

✔ Medical devices are considered additional carry-on items and are free of charge.
✔ Mobility aids and assistive devices are fully accommodated with priority storage.
✔ Some medical devices require advance airline approval for use on board.
✔ Passengers must ensure devices comply with FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) regulations.

2. Approved Medical Devices for Air Travel

Delta permits the use and transport of various FAA-approved medical devices, including:

• Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POCs)
• CPAP, BiPAP, and APAP machines (for sleep apnea)
• Nebulizers and inhalers
• Insulin pumps and glucose monitors
• Epinephrine auto-injectors (EpiPen)
• Feeding pumps and dialysis machines
• Wheelchairs, canes, crutches, and other mobility aids

📌 Note: Some devices may require battery approval or must be used under specific conditions during the flight.

3. Pre-Flight Approval: What Needs Advance Authorization?

While most medical devices can be transported without prior approval, some require advance notification to Delta’s Special Assistance team.

📌 Medical devices that require advance approval (at least 48 hours before departure):
✔ Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POCs) – Must be FAA-approved and pre-registered.
✔ Battery-powered medical devices with large lithium-ion batteries – Devices with batteries over 100Wh require airline approval.
✔ Medical devices requiring in-flight power – If your device needs an onboard power supply, you must notify Delta in advance.

🔗 How to Request Approval:

• Call Delta’s Special Assistance Line at 1-404-209-3434.
• Submit documentation via Delta’s Accessibility Request Portal.
• Provide your doctor’s medical statement for oxygen use (if applicable).

4. Using Medical Equipment During the Flight

Not all medical devices can be actively used during the flight, so it’s essential to know Delta’s rules for in-flight usage.

✅ Devices Allowed for Use In-Flight

• FAA-approved Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POCs)
• CPAP, BiPAP, and APAP machines (must be battery-powered)
• Insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors (CGMs)
• Nebulizers (battery-powered only)

🚫 Devices NOT Allowed for In-Flight Use

• Compressed oxygen tanks or liquid oxygen – Not permitted due to FAA safety regulations.
• Non-FAA-approved respiratory devices – Devices that are not FAA-compliant cannot be used.
• Devices requiring high-powered electrical connections – No guarantee of in-seat power on all aircraft.

📌 Tip: Delta encourages battery-powered devices since in-seat power availability is not guaranteed.

5. Battery and Power Requirements for Medical Devices

Passengers using battery-operated medical equipment must comply with FAA lithium battery restrictions to prevent fire hazards.

🔋 Lithium Battery Guidelines for Medical Devices
✔ Batteries must be carried in your carry-on bag (checked baggage is not allowed).
✔ Each battery must be 100Wh or less (larger batteries up to 160Wh require airline approval).
✔ Passengers should bring enough battery power for at least 150% of the flight duration in case of delays.
✔ Spare batteries must be in protective cases to prevent short-circuiting.

💡 Tip: If using a CPAP machine or oxygen concentrator, consider bringing a portable battery pack since in-seat power may not be available.

6. Transporting and Storing Medical Equipment

Passengers should properly pack and label medical devices for security screening and in-flight storage.

✔ Label all medical devices with your name and contact information.
✔ Keep medications and medical supplies in their original containers.
✔ Bring a doctor’s note explaining your medical condition and device use (helpful for international travel).
✔ Arrive early at the airport to allow extra time for TSA screening.

📌 TSA Tip: Passengers with medical conditions or disabilities can request TSA Cares assistance for expedited security screening.

7. Checking Larger Medical Equipment (Wheelchairs & Mobility Aids)

Delta accommodates passengers traveling with wheelchairs, mobility aids, and assistive devices free of charge.

🛞 Wheelchair & Mobility Aid Policies
✔ Manual wheelchairs and collapsible mobility aids can be stored in the cabin when space allows.
✔ Battery-powered wheelchairs and scooters must be checked at the ticket counter or gate.
✔ Lithium-ion powered mobility devices are accepted but must comply with Delta’s battery safety guidelines.

📌 Important Note: If traveling internationally, some airports may not have proper wheelchair accessibility, so notify Delta’s Special Assistance team in advance.

8. Traveling with Medications & Medical Supplies

Passengers traveling with prescription medications, insulin, syringes, or medical liquids should follow these important guidelines:

💊 Bringing Medications on Board
✔ Keep medications in their original prescription bottles for easy identification.
✔ Liquid medications over 3.4 ounces (100mL) are allowed but must be declared at TSA screening.
✔ Carry a doctor’s note or prescription documentation if traveling internationally.
✔ Use a small cooler for temperature-sensitive medications like insulin (Delta does not provide refrigeration).

📌 TSA Tip: You can request manual screening for medications instead of sending them through X-ray machines.

9. Requesting Special Assistance

Passengers needing extra support can request special assistance from Delta’s Special Assistance Team at least 48 hours before departure.

📞 How to Request Special Assistance

• Call 1-404-209-3434 for disability and medical assistance.
• Submit a request via the Delta website.
• Inform the gate agent and flight crew about your medical needs before boarding.

10. Why Choose Delta for Medical Travel?

Delta Air Lines is one of the best U.S. airlines for passengers with medical needs, offering:

✔ Free carry-on of medical devices without counting toward baggage limits.
✔ Special assistance for boarding, deplaning, and connecting flights.
✔ Accommodation for mobility devices and wheelchairs.
✔ Pre-approved in-flight medical device usage.
✔ TSA and security support for passengers with medical conditions.

Final Thoughts

Traveling with medical equipment on Delta Air Lines is manageable with proper planning. By understanding the airline’s policies, battery restrictions, and pre-flight approval process, passengers can ensure a safe and comfortable journey.

📌 Key Takeaways:

• Medical devices are allowed as additional carry-on items for free.
• Some devices (like POCs) require pre-approval.
• Battery-powered devices must comply with FAA regulations.
• Delta offers excellent special assistance services for passengers with medical needs.

With advanced planning and coordination with Delta’s Special Assistance Team, travelers with medical needs can fly with confidence and ease.