Are you looking for the perfect way to make traveling easier and more comfortable? Do you dread having to struggle with your luggage, push yourself in a crowded airport or be embarrassed about being slow due to mobility matters?

If you are passionate about traveling and seeing the world but have trouble walking or standing for a long period of time, an airline approved mobility scooter is a great solution for you. Check out our airline approved mobility scooter buying guide.

If you answered yes then Electric Wheelchairs USA is here to save the day! 

We carry only the best airline approved mobility scooters that can easily fold up and fit into airplane wheelchair compartments so you're able to maintain your dignity while cruising through airports with ease.

These types of scooters are important for a person who cannot go about their daily lives without having them in their possession.    So to take it with them on a trip is important to maintain that quality life they are used to.  These units have a range of advantageous qualities and can be easily folded and packed to take on a long or short trip.  The question is, which mobility scooters are the best to take on an airplane?

Before we get into that, there are a few things you should know.  Many people think there are many different battery types that you cannot travel on an airplane.  The truth is, the only thing that matters is that your battery is non-spillable.  That and certain types of lithium batteries as well.  As a matter of fact, just about all mobility scooters come with non-spillable batteries.  This type of battery does not contain water like an automotive battery. 

You would be surprised, but it actually does not matter how big the mobility scooter is, although many are just too big to bring on the airline.  With this type of battery, it allows gasses to disperse evenly throughout the battery container, making it safer.  Lithium batteries are the only type of battery that cause the biggest issue.

According to the FAA any lithium battery for mobility purposes larger than 300 amps is not in compliance. We do not carry a mobility device that contains 300 amp hours between two batteries. Usually, the most you will ever see is maybe 200 Amp Hour at most. If your mobility scooter contains lithium ion batteries, you may want to consider buying a set of lead acid batteries that are non-spillable as a backup to be safe. 

There are a wide variety of options available on the market, and it can get overwhelming to try and choose the one that meets your needs the best. For this reason, we have created this guide for buying the best mobility scooter which is airline approved and will perfectly satisfy your requirements.

So, below you will find some tips and advice on choosing the most appropriate model and what to look for and review before you buy a mobility scooter.

What to Pay Attention to When Buying a Mobility Scooter?

When shopping for a mobility scooter, there are a few vital things to look for and to take into account. Size, weight, safety features, comfort, controls, construction, and last, but not least, batteries. Under the conditions of traveling with a mobility scooter by airplane, batteries are one of the first things to take into consideration.

Construction

A mobility scooter usually consists of a metal platform with wheels, drive unit, and batteries. The controls and hand rests are situated at the front and, of course, a seat on the back. The primary materials used for a platform or a drive unit are typically steel, aluminum or fiberglass.  Some models also come with a cover over the head and control panel. In terms of construction, three vital factors should be considered: size, turning radius and ground clearance. All these factors impact the maneuverability on the unit.

Safety and Comfort

The dimensions of the base unit are also important and should be taken into consideration to ensure that the scooter meets your needs. Your feet should be positioned comfortably and the controls should be easy to reach and use. It’s an essential factor for you if you are very tall or short.  Majority of models come with adjustable seats and armrests, and some also have additional footrests for riders with longer legs or leg braces.  Another safety feature you should consider is an anti-tip mechanism which helps preserve the stability of the wheels and the scooter going up inclines  or taking sharp turns.

Front Wheel vs Rear Wheel Drive Models

Front wheel drive models are usually smaller and more maneuverable, but they are easy to transport. These types of scooters are recommended for indoor use. They are not as powerful as rear wheel models and go best on a smooth floor or flat pavement.  Rear wheel drive models, on the other hand, are bigger and have a more powerful motor and a longer range. They can easily cope with the curbs and uneven pavements and fit the best for outdoor use. Although, due to the capacity, they are bigger, less maneuverable and harder to transport.

Brakes

Front and rear wheel drive models have different braking systems. Rear wheel models generally have an electronic braking system which activates when pressure from controls is released. It means that whenever a unit isn’t moving forward or backward, the brakes are always active.  Front wheel drive models don’t normally come with an electronic brake system but have a manual parking brake.

Batteries

The majority of mobility scooters usually use either one or two batteries thus supplying 12 or 24 volts of an electric power system. Typically, front wheel drive is 12 volts while the rear wheel drive is 24.  The scooter batteries can’t be substituted with auto batteries as their job is to provide a sustainable power, not just a starting burst. 

The average lifespan of a battery is between twelve and eighteen months, and they can be charged and discharged on a regular basis.  Batteries are usually the one thing that can be restricted by the airlines when you are traveling with a mobility scooter. Therefore, it’s essential to choose the model with a battery that is approved by FAA and any other international airline guidelines, depending on your preferred destination.  

Remember that the rules for transporting batteries, or the devices that use the batteries, can differ from one airline to another that’s why we always recommend to reach out to your airline prior to bringing you unit with you to the airport.

Which Mobility Scooters Are Allowed on Board of a Plane?

Since the vast majority of devices started using lithium-ion batteries, the airlines and airplanes rules and regulations were forced to change and became more severe. There have been occasions when lithium or lithium-ion batteries were overheating and catching on fire, so the FAA and Airlines set particular restrictions.

However, any device that serves as a medical or mobility aid and are necessary for a passenger to have with them are allowed on board of an aircraft.  The battery would have to be unattached from the unit and checked by the airline staff to ensure it’s allowed on board.  Batteries are not allowed in check-in luggage, but there’s no problem for you to transport it in your carry-on bag. Also, the batteries should be properly packed.

You will need to protect any exposed terminals from a short circuit by covering it with tape, as an example.  However, you should also keep in mind that some airports may have additional restrictions and regulations, so it’s recommended to consult with your airline to confirm the type of battery that you can travel with, which type is allowed at a particular airport and letting them know which type of battery you have and taking any other necessary actions to take your device on board.

 

Top 7 Best Airline Approved Mobility Scooters

In this part of this buying guide, we have picked five of what we feel are the best mobility scooters that you can take on an airplane to make your search easier and give you a better understanding of the features and benefits of every model.

1. eFoldi Airline Approved Mobility Scooter

 

Step into a world of enhanced mobility with the eFoldi Lite, the epitome of innovation in portable scooters. Its feather-light structure, tipping the scales at only 33lbs, is perfect for the on-the-go lifestyle, effortlessly accommodating into small car trunks and meeting airline standards for travel.

Designed to carry up to 265 lbs, it unfolds rapidly, ready for action. Equipped with a swift-charging lithium battery, the eFoldi Lite boasts a remarkable travel distance of up to 14 miles after a brief 5-hour charge. Its robust, no-puncture tires deliver a consistently smooth ride across varied surfaces, while the efficient 250-watt motor coupled with a secure braking system ensures a reliable and enjoyable ride.

Delivered fully assembled, the eFoldi Lite marries ease of use with dynamic performance, making it a stellar choice for modern mobility needs.

Pros:

• Remarkably light and easy to transport
• Quick battery recharge with extended range
• Supports a substantial weight capacity
• Built for durability, safety, and comfort
• Ideal for various travel scenarios

 

Cons:

• Capped at a 4 mph top speed
• Needs frequent charging for regular use
• May not fit extremely compact spaces

 

 

2. Enhance Mobility MOJO Automatic Folding Scooter

Looking for a Mobility Scooter that's easy to transport, but still offers all the features you need? It sounds like your search is OVER! The Mojo by Enhance Mobility has arrived - its lightweight design allows it to be folded and lifted with ease. And with just one push of its remote button, it can be unfolded in an instant!

Don't just get from A to B, do it in Mojo style! The innovative remote folding mobility scooter is convenient like never before. With a 13 mile range, durable magnesium alloy frame that can carry up to 300lbs of weight - you'll be the envy of your travel buddies with this nifty little companion.

 

 

Looking for a scooter that's flexible and tailored to your comfort? Look no further than the Mojo Autofold! With its electromagnetic braking, adjustable tiller, LED headlight, folding basket, and adjustable armrests, you can tweak this scooter to fit your every need. 

Plus, its airline-approved battery means you can take it with you on the go. And when you need to lift it, no sweat - the scooter splits into smaller pieces for even lighter carrying.

Plus an informative digital display & paddle acceleration makes zipping around effortless and fun! Start moving on your own terms – welcome aboard the stylish & smart Enhance Mobility Mojo scooter today!

Pros:

• Automatically folds with a push of a button
• Features a 13 mile range
• A 300lb weight capacity
• Paddle acceleration and speed control to give you maximum control while driving
• Split into 2 pieces, the heaviest piece weighs just 30 lbs

 

Cons:

• No headrest
• Only a front facing basket for storage
• Not designed for driving on rough terrain 

 

 

3. EV Rider Transport AF+ Folding Electric Mobility Scooter

This Transport AF+ mobility scooter is an airline-approved scooter that is easy to fold and operate.  Folding it up is a snap, using a remote control with a single button push. The model is perfect for traveling on a plain surface such as a cruise ship floor or a train. It is a light unit with only 44 lbs of weight and 8.7 Ah lithium battery. 

The scooter comes with an adjustable tiller and a dual hand throttle control and provides easy maneuverability. It’s compact and easily portable - it can easily fit in your car trunk.  The scooter is one of the more popular units made by EV Rider.  They generally sell out of these very fast, so act now if you are interested.

 

 

This scooter has dual front tires for added stability. When folding this scooter, there is an actuator lock on the folding mechanism to ensure that it locks and stays in place. It comes with an LED headlight for better night vision.

The EV Rider has a lower ground clearance, but this scooter is made to ride on smooth surfaces.  It also offers a 31 inch turning radius. The 8.7 AH lithium battery can be charged in about 4 to 6 hours.

Pros:

• Can be folded and unfolded in just seconds with the push of a button
• Fits almost anywhere and can fit in the trunk of most automobiles with room to spare
• Electromagnetic brakes which activate the braking system when needing to do a hard stop
• Easy to operate with lever controls
• Durable flat-free tires

 

Cons:

• Not designed for driving over rugged terrain
• Limited storage space for personal items
• Small backrest and no headrest or armrests

 

4. Golden Technologies Buzzaround Carry On Folding Mobility Scooter

 

Are you an active person who needs help getting around? The Buzzaround Carry On is your perfect solution! This lightweight and incredibly compact folding scooter from Golden Technologies will make it easier to get where you need to go without feeling weighed down.

Plus, the modern design makes this versatile mobility aid a breeze - you'll be speeding off in style!

 

 

Forget the bulky, awkward folding 60 pound mobility scooters of the past - Golden Technologies has totally revolutionized what you can do with a cozy 12” tall package.

This lightweight sleek design comes loaded with amazing features that make mobility easy and convenient. With a smart USB port, you can charge your cell phone while you are out and about. Plus, when you need to pack up and move, simply remove the seat in seconds and watch the weight drop. With a seat that weighs only 12 lbs and the rest of the unit weighing just 47.5 lbs, it's easy to take with you wherever you go. 

Don't underestimate this mobility scooter's strength, though! It can hold up to 300 lbs, and offers an impressive 4" ground clearance, something not typically found in other compact mobility scooters of this size. With an 18 mile battery range, the Buzzaround Carry On will keep you moving all day long!

Inspired by cruise lines and their need for small-space storage options, this revolutionary design allows users to easily collapse both the seat base and tiller onto its own frame. So go ahead – experience more freedom than ever before!

Pros:

• Can hold up to 300 lbs
• Has an 18 mile battery range
• Offers an impressive 4" ground clearance
• Comes standard with a USB port to charge your phone
• Folds up and can be pulled behind you like a piece of luggage

 

Cons:

• Not designed for rough terrain
• No storage space for personal items
• No headrest

 

5. Scooter iLiving USA i3 Folding Electric Mobility Scooter

The iLiving i3 Folding Mobility Scooter is exceptionally engineered and offers great quality. This mobility scooter is light weight and made from aircraft-grade aluminum.  iLiving USA is one of the up and coming brands in the mobility industry and once you see this scooter in person, it is easy to see why.

This unit weighs around 60 pounds including the battery and folds and unfolds in just two steps. It comes with a comfortable cushioned seat, LED headlights, taillights, and even brake lights.

 

The iLiving i3 comes standard with a USB port for cellphone charging, a storage compartment on the floorboard, and a battery compartment switch. This compartment can only be accessed with a scooter key, an anti-theft feature.  You can purchase a second battery and install both into the scooter.  Once one battery runs out of power, it is easy to switch to the second battery and continue on your journey.

This luxurious folding mobility scooter has a weight capacity of 300 pounds, a maximum operating range of 14 miles, a turning radius of 48 inches, and a top speed of 4 mph.

Pros:

• Manufactured with durable aircraft-grade aluminum
• Features a USB port so you can charge your cell phone while you are on the go
• A storage compartment on the floorboard
• The battery compartment is secure and only accessible with the scooter key
• Only 53 lbs. with battery included

 

Cons:

• No headrest
• Not designed for rough terrain
• No option for overhead canopy

 

6. Vive Health Folding Mobility Scooter

The Vive Health Folding Mobility Scooter is a lightweight four-wheel model that is TSA-approved. This unit folds down automatically at the push of a button.
Once it is folded it can roll on wheels like a suitcase. It only weighs 55 pounds and runs on a 10AH battery.

As an added safety feature this scooter will not fold down if the key is in the ignition.  This scooter is capable of driving in reverse, which is great when having to back out of elevators or tight hallways.

The tire size is 7.78" for both front and rear tires which all have a skid-resistant thread.  The Vive Health Folding Mobility Scooter has a weight capacity of 220 pounds, a maximum operating range of 11.3 miles, a turning radius of 6.5 inches, and a top speed of just under 4 mph.  

 

 

Looking for a sturdy scooter that gives you added stability on smooth surfaces? Look no further! This folding scooter comes equipped with four skid-resistant tires that will keep you steady on your way. Plus, you can even drive it in reverse for easy maneuvering in tight spaces like elevators or hallways. 

And that's not all – if you want to make your ride even more comfortable, just loosen the fastener on the front tiller and adjust it up or down to your preference. The seat, a cozy 14.7” by 13.78” with back support, is the cherry on top of this comfortable, convenient ride.

If you are looking for a practical folding mobility scooter that won't break the bank, this Vive Health mobility scooter is a great choice.

Pros:

• Entirely automated folding mechanism
• Only weighs 55.11 lbs
• TSA approved so you can ride your scooter to the boarding gate
• Has a weight capacity of 220 lbs
• Travel up to 11.3 miles per charge

 

Cons:

• No storage space for personal items
• Limited ability to drive over rough terrain
• Small backrest and no headrest or armrests

 

7. HandyScoot Folding 3 Wheel Travel Mobility Scooter  

 

Perhaps one of the lightest mobility scooters on the market is the HandyScoot.  The total weight of the unit is 42 lbs, however, once the seat is removed (9 lbs) and the battery is removed (4 lbs), the heaviest piece weighs just 29 lbs making it simple to transport.  Despite its lightweight, don't be fooled by this 3 wheel unit.  It is capable of handling up to 350 lbs of weight, offers a 15 mile battery range, and can reach speeds of up to 9 mph.

HandyScoot is a newer brand in the mobility scooter market, but is quickly becoming a favorite.  This mobility aid ships directly from their headquarters in Santa Fe, NM and generally ships out within 24 hours.  

 

 

The frame of this HandyScoot mobility scooter is closer to the ground and thus it is easier to mount, especially useful if you struggle with problems in your legs. The vinyl pad allows for durability and longer use, with less chances of replacement.

Its battery comes with an embedded plug, which allows for easier placing on the controller. If you’re tired of scooters with cables that are sticking out everywhere, you don’t have to be with the HandyScoot, as all necessary cables are tucked away into the interior of the scooter.

With a turning radius of 26 inches you can get around tight corners with no added effort. This scooter also comes with a front basket, a front light and a front luggage bar.

Pros:

• Has a weight capacity of 350 lbs
• All necessary cables are located in the interior of the scooter
• Comes with a 2 year scooter warranty on the entire product
• Easy to lift by steering column when lock is engaged
• Top speed of 9 miles per hour

 

Cons:

• No storage space for personal items
• No headrest or armrests
• No lighting package for nighttime use

 

8. EV Rider Transport AF 4W Folding Mobility Scooter 

Step up your style with the EV Rider Transport AF 4W scooter! Its four wheels provide enhanced stability, while a tight turning radius allows you to zip around corners with ease. And if that isn't enough – this nifty ride is available in an array of vibrant colors so you can truly express yourself. Worried about your safety when the sun goes down? Don’t worry - LED headlights are included too!

Best yet, it folds automatically for easy storage - so your ride can be ready anytime you want to go! Say goodbye to cumbersome scooters. Now, with the EV Rider Transport AF 4W - equipped with automatic folding capabilities and a just press of a button – you can be on your way in no time.

 

Have you ever wanted to cruise around on a mobility scooter without worrying about running out of battery? This EV Rider mobility scooter has got you covered with up to 10 miles of driving range! Powered by efficient 11.5AH lithium batteries, this scooter can reach high speeds of up to 4 miles per hour. 

Plus, you can ride confidently on its solid rear and front tires that will never go flat. With a 1.4" ground clearance, you can easily navigate flat surfaces without any trouble. And if you decide to take a night ride, the dual-LED front lights will guide your way!

Standing at an impressive 30” by 16.5” by 16.5" when folded, this innovative little machine is perfect for taking out & about and quickly storing away again so it's one top-selling foldable choice that won't keep you waiting or struggling!

Pros:

• A top speed of up to 4 miles per hour
• Enjoy a great 10-mile driving range
• The footboard is carpeted for added safety and comfort
• The footrest bar extends beyond the tiller to stretch out your legs
• A fully adjustable tiller

 

Cons:

• No storage space for personal items
• Limited ability to drive over rough terrain
• Limited backrest and no headrest or armrests

 

Still unsure what type of folding mobility scooter you want?  We have other resources that should be able to help you out.  Check out our Top Folding Mobility Scooters For 2023 for our top picks.

We also have a special offer that you can benefit from by taking 5% off your order.  Simply use code AIRLINE5 at checkout to receive the discount.  The offer expires tonight so don't waste too much time!  See product page for details, call us at (800) 682-9444 or email us at info@electricwheelchairsusa.com.