Air Carrier Access Act Technical Assistance Manual (2005)

Storing Wheelchairs and Other Assistive Devices in the Cabin

Carriers must allow passengers with a disability using personal ventilators/respirators to bring their equipment, including non-spillable batteries, on board the aircraft as long as FAA safety regulations are met. [Sec. 382.41(b)] Carriers must permit passengers to stow their canes and other assistive devices in the cabin and close to their seats, consistent with FAA safety regulations concerning carry-on items. [Sec. 382.41(c)]

Carriers must not count assistive devices toward the limit on carry-on items when a passenger with a disability brings an assistive device on board the aircraft. [Sec. 382.41(d)] Wheelchairs and other assistive devices that cannot be stowed in the cabin must be stowed in the baggage compartment with priority over other cargo and baggage. [Sec. 382.41(f)(3)] In addition, because carriers cannot charge for facilities, equipment, or services required under the law to be provided to qualified individuals with a disability, no charge would be imposed if a wheelchair or assistive device exceeded the limit on checked baggage. [Sec. 382.57] Carriers must permit the in-cabin storage of wheelchairs or components of wheelchairs, including folding, collapsible, or breakdown battery-powered wheelchairs. [Sec. 382.41(e)] In addition, aircraft with 100 or more passenger seats (ordered after April 5, 1990, or delivered after April 5, 1992) must have a priority space in the cabin designated for stowage of at least one passenger’s folding wheelchair. [Sec. 382.21(a)(2)]