United Airlines Medical Device Policy: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Traveling with medical equipment can be stressful, but United Airlines has clear policies to accommodate passengers with medical needs. Whether you require a portable oxygen concentrator (POC), CPAP machine, insulin pump, or mobility aid, United provides guidelines for carrying and using medical devices to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.

This guide explores United Airlines’ policies on medical devices, including carry-on allowances, required approvals, battery regulations, and in-flight usage rules, helping you prepare for your next flight.

United Airlines Medical Device Policy

1. United Airlines’ Medical Equipment Policy Overview

United Airlines allows passengers to bring necessary medical devices on board as additional carry-on items at no extra cost. Medical equipment does not count toward standard carry-on baggage limits, making it easier to travel with essential healthcare supplies.

✔ Medical devices are permitted as extra carry-on items free of charge.
✔ Wheelchairs, mobility aids, and service animals are fully accommodated without extra fees.
✔ Certain medical devices require advance approval before the flight.
✔ All in-flight medical devices must meet FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) regulations.

2. Approved Medical Devices for Air Travel

United Airlines permits the transportation and use of 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 require battery approval or must be used under specific conditions during the flight.

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

While most medical devices can be transported without prior approval, some require advance notification to United Airlines’ Accessibility Desk at least 48 hours before departure.

📌 Devices that require pre-flight approval:
✔ Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POCs) – Must be FAA-approved and pre-registered with the airline.
✔ Battery-powered medical devices exceeding FAA limits – Devices with lithium-ion batteries over 100Wh require approval.
✔ Medical devices requiring in-flight power – If your device needs onboard electrical power, you must notify United in advance.

🔗 How to Request Approval:

• Call United Airlines’ Accessibility Desk at 1-800-228-2744 (within the U.S.).
• Submit documentation via United Airlines’ website for pre-approval.
• Provide a doctor’s medical statement if using a POC or specialized medical device.

4. Using Medical Equipment During the Flight

Not all medical devices can be actively used during the flight, so passengers should review United’s in-flight medical device policies before traveling.

✅ Devices Allowed for In-Flight Use

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

🚫 Devices NOT Allowed for In-Flight Use

• Compressed oxygen tanks or liquid oxygen – Strictly prohibited due to FAA safety regulations.
• Non-FAA-approved respiratory devices – Cannot be operated on board.
• Devices requiring high-powered electrical connections – United does not guarantee in-seat power on all aircraft.

📌 Tip: Battery-powered medical devices are preferred, as in-seat power is not guaranteed on every flight.

5. Battery and Power Requirements for Medical Devices

Passengers using battery-operated medical equipment must follow FAA lithium battery guidelines to prevent fire hazards.

🔋 Lithium Battery Rules for Medical Devices
✔ All batteries must be carried in carry-on luggage (not checked bags).
✔ Each battery must be 100Wh or less (batteries up to 160Wh require airline approval).
✔ Passengers must bring enough battery power to last at least 150% of the flight duration in case of delays.
✔ Spare batteries must be individually protected to prevent short circuits.

💡 Tip: If using a CPAP machine, oxygen concentrator, or nebulizer, bring a backup power source, as electrical outlets are not available on all aircraft.

6. Transporting and Storing Medical Equipment

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

✔ Label all medical devices with your name and contact information.
✔ Keep medications and medical supplies in original packaging for TSA screening.
✔ Bring a doctor’s note for international travel explaining your medical condition and device usage.
✔ Arrive early to allow extra time for security clearance.

📌 TSA Tip: Passengers with medical conditions or mobility challenges can request TSA Cares assistance to help with security screening.

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

United Airlines accommodates wheelchairs, mobility aids, and assistive devices at no extra cost.

🛞 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 must comply with FAA battery safety rules.

📌 Important Note: If traveling internationally, some airports may lack proper wheelchair accessibility, so passengers should notify United’s Accessibility Desk in advance for assistance.

8. Traveling with Medications & Medical Supplies

Passengers carrying prescription medications, insulin, syringes, or liquid medical supplies should follow these guidelines:

💊 Bringing Medications on Board
✔ Keep medications in original prescription bottles for easy identification.
✔ Liquid medications over 3.4 ounces (100mL) are allowed but must be declared at security screening.
✔ Carry a doctor’s note or prescription documentation for international travel.
✔ Use an insulated cooler for temperature-sensitive medications like insulin (United does not provide onboard refrigeration).

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

9. Requesting Special Assistance

Passengers needing extra support can request assistance from United’s Accessibility Desk at least 48 hours before departure.

📞 How to Request Special Assistance

• Call 1-800-228-2744 for disability and medical device assistance.
• Submit a request via United Airlines’ website.
• Notify the gate agent and flight crew about medical needs before boarding.

10. Why Choose United Airlines for Medical Travel?

United Airlines is one of the best U.S. carriers for passengers with medical needs, offering:

✔ Free carry-on of medical devices beyond standard baggage allowances.
✔ 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 travelers with medical conditions.

Final Thoughts

Traveling with medical equipment on United Airlines is straightforward when planned ahead. 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 extra carry-on items for free.
• Some devices (like POCs) require advance airline approval.
• Battery-powered devices must follow FAA safety rules.
• United Airlines provides excellent accessibility support for passengers with medical needs.

With proper planning and coordination with United’s Accessibility Desk, passengers with medical requirements can fly with confidence and peace of mind.