Everything you need to know about flying Air Canada with portable oxygen concentrators, CPAPs, wheelchairs, and medical equipment. Current policies, battery limits, documentation, and passenger rights under Canadian accessibility law.

Air Canada Medical Device Policy: Complete 2025 Travel Guide

Accuracy Note: This guide reflects Air Canada medical device policies as of January 2025. Policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements at aircanada.com/medical-assistance or by calling Air Canada Medical Assistance Desk at 1-800-667-4732 (North America) or +1-514-369-7039 (International) before travel.

Why Air Canada's Medical Device Policy Stands Out

Air Canada, Canada's largest airline and a Star Alliance member, serves over 50 million passengers annually across 220+ destinations worldwide. For travelers with portable oxygen concentrators (POCs), CPAPs, wheelchairs, and other medical devices, Air Canada's policies are shaped by both Canadian accessibility legislation (Accessible Canada Act) and international aviation regulations (IATA, FAA, Transport Canada).

Unlike many U.S. carriers, Air Canada's medical device policies reflect Canada's strong disability rights framework, offering generous accommodations, robust passenger protections, and comprehensive medical assistance programs. However, Air Canada's international route network also means stricter documentation requirements, battery verification procedures, and compliance with destination country regulations.

This guide provides complete, up-to-date information on traveling with medical equipment on Air Canada flights, including domestic Canadian routes, transborder (U.S.-Canada) flights, and international destinations.

What You'll Learn:

Air Canada's POC approval requirements and battery limits
CPAP and BiPAP travel policies and in-flight use
Powered wheelchair battery regulations and handling procedures
Medical documentation requirements for Canadian and international flights
Passenger rights under Canadian accessibility law (CTA regulations)
Booking procedures and Medical Assistance Desk contact information
Real traveler experiences and insider tips for smooth Air Canada medical device travel

Air Canada Medical Assistance Desk: Your Primary Resource

Before diving into specific device policies, it's critical to know how to access Air Canada's specialized medical support.

Contact Information

Air Canada Medical Assistance Desk (MAD):

North America toll-free: 1-800-667-4732
International: +1-514-369-7039
Email: medicalassistance@aircanada.ca
Hours: 24 hours/day, 7 days/week
Languages: English, French, Spanish (limited)

When to Contact MAD:

Booking flights with POCs, powered wheelchairs, or ventilators
Questions about battery limits or device compatibility
Special seating requests for medical device users
Documentation requirements clarification
Disability-related service animal travel
In-flight medical oxygen requests (separate from POC policy)

Response Time:

Phone: Immediate (24/7 staffed)
Email: 24-48 hours for non-urgent inquiries
Urgent/same-day travel: Call only, do not rely on email

How to Add Medical Device Notifications to Your Reservation

At Time of Booking:

Online Booking: Look for "Special Assistance" section during seat selection
Phone Booking: Inform agent of medical device at time of reservation
Travel Agency: Request agent add "SSR MEDA" code to reservation

After Booking (48-72 Hours Before Flight):

Log into Air Canada account: "Manage My Booking"
Select "Special Assistance" or call MAD at 1-800-667-4732
Specify device type, battery capacity, number of spare batteries
Request email confirmation of medical device notation

Required Information When Notifying:

Passenger name and booking reference
Device type (POC, CPAP, wheelchair, etc.)
Battery type (lithium-ion, sealed lead-acid, etc.)
Battery watt-hour (Wh) rating
Number of spare batteries
Flight dates and route

Confirmation:

Request email confirmation from MAD
Verify medical device notation appears in reservation
Print confirmation to show at check-in and gate

Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POCs) on Air Canada

Air Canada allows FAA-approved portable oxygen concentrators on all flights, subject to specific requirements.

POC Approval Requirements

Approved Devices:

Air Canada accepts all FAA-approved POCs listed on the FAA website
Device must display FAA approval label or manufacturer compliance marking
Most common approved POCs: Inogen (G3, G4, G5), Philips Respironics (SimplyGo, SimplyGo Mini), SeQual Eclipse, AirSep, Oxlife

Verification at Check-In:

Gate agents verify POC is on FAA-approved list
May request to see FAA approval label on device
Bring manufacturer documentation showing FAA approval

Not Approved:

Medical oxygen tanks or compressed gas cylinders (prohibited on all Air Canada flights)
Non-FAA-approved concentrators
Liquid oxygen systems

Medical Documentation Requirements

For All POC Travelers (Domestic and International):

Air Canada requires a physician's statement or medical certificate for POC use. This is stricter than many U.S. carriers.

Required Documentation:

Physician's Statement or Medical Certificate
- Patient name, date of birth
- Medical condition necessitating oxygen use
- Prescription for oxygen therapy (flow rate in liters per minute)
- Physician name, signature, contact information, date of issuance
- Statement confirming patient is medically fit to fly
POC Device Specifications
- Manufacturer name and model number
- FAA approval verification
- Battery type and watt-hour ratings
- User manual excerpt showing device specifications

Timing:

Submit documentation to Medical Assistance Desk at least 48 hours before departure
Email to: medicalassistance@aircanada.ca
Subject line: "POC Travel Request - [Your Name] - [Flight Date and Number]"

Template Physician Letter (Air Canada Acceptable Format):

[Physician Letterhead]

Date: [Current Date]

To Whom It May Concern:

This letter is to certify that [Patient Name, Date of Birth: MM/DD/YYYY] has been diagnosed with [Medical Condition] and requires supplemental oxygen therapy during air travel.

The patient has been prescribed continuous oxygen at a flow rate of [X] liters per minute and is medically stable and fit for air travel with appropriate oxygen support.

The patient will be using a [POC Manufacturer and Model, e.g., Inogen One G5], which is FAA-approved for in-flight use. The device provides adequate oxygen delivery to meet the patient's medical needs during flight.

Please accommodate this passenger's use of their portable oxygen concentrator during all phases of flight, including taxi, takeoff, cruise, and landing.

If you have questions, please contact me at [Physician Phone] or [Physician Email].

Sincerely,

[Physician Name, MD]
[Medical License Number]
[Contact Information]

International Flights:

Some destination countries require additional documentation
Air Canada MAD can advise on country-specific requirements
Bring multiple copies of all documentation (original + 2-3 copies)

Battery Limits and Spare Battery Policy

Battery Watt-Hour Limits:

Air Canada follows IATA and Transport Canada regulations:

Batteries Under 100 Wh:

Installed in POC: Unlimited (device must remain in cabin)
Spare batteries: Maximum 4 spare batteries per passenger
Location: Carry-on baggage only (spare batteries prohibited in checked baggage)

Batteries 100-160 Wh:

Installed in POC: Allowed
Spare batteries: Maximum 2 spare batteries per passenger
Advance approval: REQUIRED from Air Canada MAD at least 48 hours before flight
Location: Carry-on baggage only

Batteries Over 160 Wh:

Prohibited as spare batteries on passenger flights
If installed in POC: Very rare; contact MAD for special approval (usually denied)

Flight Duration Coverage Requirement:

Air Canada requires battery capacity sufficient for 150% of flight duration
Example: 6-hour flight = 9 hours of battery capacity minimum
Calculate: (Flight hours × 1.5) × POC battery runtime = Total batteries needed

Battery Packing Requirements:

Each spare battery must be individually protected against short circuit
Acceptable protection: Original retail packaging, plastic battery case, electrical tape on terminals
Batteries must be manufacturer-approved for the POC model

Example Scenarios:

Scenario 1: Toronto to Vancouver (5 hours) with Inogen G5

Inogen G5 battery: 72 Wh (under 100 Wh tier)
Battery runtime: ~4 hours on setting 2
Required capacity: 5 hours × 1.5 = 7.5 hours
Batteries needed: 2 batteries (8 hours total runtime)
Air Canada allows: POC + 4 spare batteries (no advance notice required)
You can bring: POC + 1 spare battery (sufficient for trip)

Scenario 2: Montreal to London (7 hours) with Inogen G3 16-cell

Inogen G3 16-cell battery: 144 Wh (100-160 Wh tier)
Battery runtime: ~8 hours on setting 2
Required capacity: 7 hours × 1.5 = 10.5 hours
Batteries needed: 2 batteries (16 hours total runtime)
Air Canada allows: POC + 2 spare batteries (with advance approval)
Action required: Contact MAD 48 hours in advance for approval of 2 spare 144 Wh batteries

In-Flight POC Use

When You Can Use POC:

During all phases of flight: Taxi, takeoff, cruise, landing (Air Canada permits continuous use)
During ground operations: While aircraft is at gate (if needed)
During emergencies: Oxygen concentrators can remain on during emergency procedures

Cabin Crew Notification:

Inform lead flight attendant upon boarding that you're using a POC
Show FAA approval label if requested
Explain device operation briefly (e.g., "It concentrates ambient air, doesn't emit gases")

Storage During Flight:

POC must be stowed under seat in front of you or in approved overhead bin during taxi and turbulence
Cannot block aisles, emergency exits, or lavatory access
Must be accessible to you during flight (not in overhead bin far from your seat)

Charging POC Batteries In-Flight:

NOT permitted on most Air Canada aircraft (limited AC power outlets, charging policies restrictive)
Some long-haul aircraft have in-seat power (check aircraft type before booking)
Even with power available, cabin crew may prohibit battery charging (fire risk policy)
Best practice: Bring fully charged batteries sufficient for entire flight duration

POC Malfunctions During Flight:

Notify cabin crew immediately
Air Canada does not provide emergency oxygen for POC malfunction (except in medical emergencies unrelated to device)
Ensure you have backup batteries and tested device before boarding

Seating Restrictions and Recommendations

Where You Cannot Sit with POC:

Exit rows: Prohibited (oxygen concentrators not allowed in exit rows on any airline)
Bulkhead seats: May be restricted (limited under-seat storage for POC)

Recommended Seating:

Window seat: Easier access to device stored under seat in front
Aisle seat: Easier movement for restroom access (some POC users prefer)
Near lavatory (but not exit row): Reduces walking distance with POC

How to Request Optimal Seating:

Contact Air Canada MAD when booking or up to 48 hours before flight
Request window seat in row with adequate under-seat storage
Avoid seats near galleys (high traffic, crew may request device be moved during service)

CPAP and BiPAP Travel on Air Canada

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) and Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure (BiPAP) machines are accommodated on Air Canada flights with fewer restrictions than POCs.

CPAP/BiPAP Carry-On Policy

Does Not Count Toward Baggage Limit:

CPAP or BiPAP machine is considered a medical device, not a carry-on bag
You may bring CPAP in addition to standard carry-on and personal item
Applies to all Air Canada fare classes (Basic Economy through Business)

Packing Requirements:

CPAP must be in a protective case or bag
Must fit in overhead bin or under seat in front of you
Remove from bag during TSA/CATSA security screening

Batteries and Power Packs:

CPAP batteries follow same rules as POC batteries (under 100 Wh: 4 spare max; 100-160 Wh: 2 spare max with approval)
Most CPAP travel batteries are 80-130 Wh
Spare batteries must be in carry-on, individually protected against short circuit

Medical Documentation for CPAP/BiPAP

Air Canada's Policy:

Medical documentation not required for CPAP/BiPAP on most flights
Exception: If requesting special accommodations (extra seat for device, priority boarding), documentation may be requested
International flights: Some destination countries may require sleep apnea diagnosis documentation

Recommended to Bring (Even if Not Required):

Physician letter diagnosing sleep apnea and prescribing CPAP therapy
CPAP prescription or equipment order
Device specifications (especially battery watt-hour ratings)

Why Documentation Helps:

If questioned by gate agents or customs officials
For countries with stricter medical device import regulations
To expedite TSA/CATSA security screening

In-Flight CPAP Use

General Policy:

NOT permitted for in-flight use on most Air Canada routes (CPAP emits continuous airflow, which can interfere with cabin air circulation)
Exception: Overnight long-haul flights (10+ hours) may allow CPAP use during cruise phase if approved by cabin crew

How to Request In-Flight CPAP Use:

Contact MAD at least 7 days before flight
Explain medical necessity (severe sleep apnea, safety concern for long flights)
Request may be approved for flights over 10 hours (e.g., Toronto-Hong Kong, Montreal-Paris)
Approval not guaranteed; depends on aircraft type and cabin crew assessment

Alternative for Most Flights:

Pack CPAP in carry-on and use upon arrival at destination
For layovers, some airports have sleep pods or quiet rooms where CPAP can be used

Power Considerations:

Most Air Canada aircraft have limited or no in-seat AC power outlets
Long-haul Boeing 787s and Airbus A330s: In-seat power available in some cabins
Check aircraft type and seat map before booking if in-flight CPAP use is essential

CPAP Distilled Water and Accessories

Distilled Water for Humidifier:

Subject to TSA/CATSA liquid rules: 3.4 oz (100 ml) maximum in carry-on
Medically necessary liquids exception: May bring larger quantities with documentation, but must declare at security
Best practice: Empty humidifier chamber before flight; refill at destination

CPAP Accessories:

Masks, hoses, filters: No restrictions, pack in CPAP case
Cleaning supplies: Subject to TSA liquid and aerosol rules
Spare parts: Allowed in carry-on or checked baggage

Powered Wheelchairs and Mobility Devices

Air Canada accommodates travelers with powered wheelchairs and scooters, but battery regulations are strict and advance notification is mandatory.

Battery Types and Restrictions

Lithium-Ion Batteries:

Under 100 Wh:

Wheelchair may travel with battery installed
No advance approval required (but notification recommended)
Battery must be secured and protected from damage

100-160 Wh:

Wheelchair may travel with battery installed
Advance notification required 48 hours minimum
Battery may need to be disconnected and terminals protected (airline discretion)

160-300 Wh:

Wheelchair may travel only if battery is removable
Battery must be removed and carried in cabin (if under 300 Wh and removable)
If battery non-removable: Contact MAD for special handling (approval not guaranteed)
Requires hazardous materials declaration

Over 300 Wh:

Prohibited on passenger flights
Must use airline-provided wheelchair or travel without powered wheelchair

Spare Wheelchair Batteries:

Spare batteries under 100 Wh: 2 spares allowed
Spare batteries 100-160 Wh: 2 spares allowed with approval
Spare batteries over 160 Wh: Prohibited

Sealed Lead-Acid and Gel-Cell Batteries:

Spillable batteries: Must be removed, packaged in airline-approved containers (contact MAD for procedures)
Non-spillable batteries (AGM, gel-cell): May remain installed if properly secured
Watt-hour limits still apply

Wheelchair Notification and Documentation

When to Notify Air Canada:

At booking (best practice)
Minimum 48 hours before departure (mandatory for batteries over 100 Wh)
Recommended 7 days before for complex wheelchairs or international flights

How to Notify:

Call Medical Assistance Desk: 1-800-667-4732
Provide: Wheelchair dimensions, weight, battery type, watt-hour rating, whether battery is removable

Required Information:

Wheelchair make and model
Dimensions (length, width, height)
Weight (with and without battery if removable)
Battery type (lithium-ion, sealed lead-acid, etc.)
Battery watt-hour rating (must be verified)
Whether battery is removable or non-removable

Documentation to Bring:

Wheelchair user manual (battery specifications page)
Battery specification sheet showing watt-hour rating
Physician letter (if wheelchair is recent prescription)

Wheelchair Handling and Damage Prevention

Check-In Process:

Check in at airport counter (not online or kiosk for powered wheelchairs)
Allow extra time (arrive 2 hours before domestic, 3 hours before international)
Complete wheelchair handling tag with special instructions

Battery Disconnection Procedure:

If required, airline staff will disconnect battery (or you may do so if trained)
Terminals must be protected with caps or insulating tape
Battery may be transported in cargo hold or cabin (depending on size and regulations)

Protecting Your Wheelchair:

Remove or secure loose parts (joystick, cushions, footrests)
Take photos of wheelchair before check-in (for damage claims if needed)
Request "fragile" tag and "this side up" indicators

Gate-to-Gate Service:

Request airport-provided manual wheelchair for transport from check-in to gate
Your powered wheelchair will be gate-checked (loaded last, unloaded first when possible)
Retrieve wheelchair at aircraft door upon arrival (not baggage claim)

Damage or Delay:

Inspect wheelchair immediately upon retrieval
Report damage or missing parts to gate agent before leaving gate area
Request Property Irregularity Report (PIR) for insurance and claims

Passenger Rights: Canadian Accessibility Regulations

Air Canada is subject to Canadian Transportation Agency (CTA) accessibility regulations, which provide strong protections for passengers with disabilities and medical devices.

Key Rights Under CTA Regulations

Right to Travel with Medical Devices:

Air Canada cannot refuse boarding solely due to use of POC, CPAP, or wheelchair compliant with regulations
Medical devices that meet safety standards must be accommodated

Right to Assistance:

Free wheelchair assistance from curb to gate and gate to baggage claim
Assistance with stowing and retrieving medical devices
Priority boarding for medical device users (must request)

Right to Accessible Seating:

If medical device requires specific seating (e.g., not exit row), Air Canada must accommodate
Extra legroom seating for wheelchair users if medically necessary (may require documentation)

Right to Compensation for Delays Related to Disability:

If Air Canada delays or denies boarding due to medical device handling issues (not passenger non-compliance), compensation may be owed under Air Passenger Protection Regulations (APPR)

Right to File Complaints:

If Air Canada violates accessibility regulations, passengers can file complaints with:
- Canadian Transportation Agency (CTA): 1-888-222-2592, otc.gc.ca
- Complaints must be filed within 1 year of incident
- CTA investigates and can order compensation or policy changes

How to Assert Your Rights

Before Travel:

Familiarize yourself with CTA accessibility regulations
Ensure your medical device meets all safety requirements (battery limits, documentation)
Notify Air Canada in advance (creates paper trail)

At Airport:

If denied boarding or service, ask for specific regulation or policy being cited
Request supervisor if frontline staff cannot resolve issue
Document incident (names, times, statements)

After Travel:

If rights violated, file complaint with Air Canada Customer Relations first
If unsatisfied, escalate to Canadian Transportation Agency
Seek legal advice for significant damages or discrimination

Booking Tips and Insider Recommendations

Best Practices for Booking Air Canada with Medical Devices

1. Book Directly with Air Canada (Not Third-Party Sites):

Easier to add medical device notifications
Customer service can access full reservation details
Changes and issues easier to resolve

2. Select Aircraft with Better Accessibility:

Boeing 787 Dreamliner: Best in-seat power and accessibility (long-haul international)
Airbus A330: Good accessibility, some in-seat power
Older aircraft (A319, A320): Limited power outlets, older accessibility features

3. Choose Flights with Longer Layovers for Connections:

Medical device screening may take longer at security
Allows time to charge batteries during layover
Reduces stress if accessibility assistance is delayed

4. Request Priority Boarding:

Allows extra time to stow medical devices and explain setup to crew
Available to all passengers with medical devices (must request at gate)

5. Join Aeroplan (Air Canada Loyalty Program):

Elite status members get priority customer service
Easier to contact airline for medical device issues
Potential for complimentary upgrades with more space for devices

Real Traveler Experiences and Tips

Tip #1: Print Everything, Even for Domestic Flights

"I've flown Air Canada 20+ times from Toronto to Vancouver with my Inogen G5. Even though it's domestic and they have my medical info on file, I always print my physician letter and battery specs. Twice I've had gate agents who weren't familiar with the policy, and having printed documentation resolved it in 2 minutes instead of delaying the flight." — Emma L., Toronto, ON (POC user, frequent Air Canada traveler)

Tip #2: MAD is Your Best Friend

"Air Canada's Medical Assistance Desk is phenomenal. I called them 2 weeks before my first international flight with my powered wheelchair (180 Wh battery). They walked me through every step, sent me email confirmation, and even called the destination airport to ensure they could accommodate my chair. Don't hesitate to call them." — Marcus T., Calgary, AB (Powered wheelchair user)

Tip #3: Allow Extra Time for International Connections

"I learned the hard way: connecting through Toronto Pearson with my CPAP and medical equipment, I nearly missed my connection because CATSA (Canadian TSA) did a full inspection of my batteries. Now I book connections with at least 2.5 hours between flights. Domestic might be fine with 90 minutes, but international connections need buffer time." — Sarah K., Vancouver, BC (CPAP and diabetes equipment user)

Tip #4: Request Bulkhead Seating Carefully

"Bulkhead seats seem ideal (more space), but there's no under-seat storage in front of you. That means my POC has to go in the overhead bin, and I can't access it easily during flight. I now request window seats in rows 10-20 (not bulkhead) where I have under-seat storage and can keep my device close." — David R., Montreal, QC (Inogen G3 user)

Tip #5: Use Air Canada's App for Real-Time Updates

"Download the Air Canada app and enable notifications. It saved me when my gate changed in Toronto and I was in a wheelchair. The app alerted me immediately, and I called MAD to reroute the wheelchair assistance to the new gate. Without the app, I would've missed the flight." — Jennifer M., Halifax, NS (Wheelchair and medical device user)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Do I need to notify Air Canada in advance if I'm traveling with a CPAP?

A: While not strictly required for most CPAP travel, it's highly recommended to add a medical device notation to your reservation, especially if you have external battery packs or need specific seating. Contact MAD at 1-800-667-4732 at least 48 hours before departure. For international flights, some countries may require advance notification.

Q2: Can I use my portable oxygen concentrator during takeoff and landing on Air Canada?

A: Yes, Air Canada permits POC use during all phases of flight, including taxi, takeoff, cruise, and landing. This is one of Air Canada's passenger-friendly policies. Inform the cabin crew upon boarding and ensure your POC is stowed properly during taxi and turbulence when the seatbelt sign is on.

Q3: How many spare batteries can I bring for my Inogen G5 on Air Canada flights?

A: The Inogen G5 uses a battery rated at approximately 72 Wh (under 100 Wh). Air Canada allows up to 4 spare batteries under 100 Wh per passenger, in addition to the battery installed in your POC. All spare batteries must be in carry-on baggage, individually protected against short circuit.

Q4: What if my powered wheelchair battery is 200 Wh?

A: Batteries over 160 Wh but under 300 Wh may be allowed if the battery is removable and can be transported in the cabin or cargo hold with special packaging. Contact Air Canada Medical Assistance Desk at least 7 days before travel for approval. Batteries over 300 Wh are prohibited on passenger flights.

Q5: Does Air Canada require a doctor's letter for POC travel?

A: Yes, Air Canada requires a physician's statement or medical certificate for all POC travelers, even on domestic Canadian flights. This is stricter than many U.S. carriers. The letter must confirm your medical condition, oxygen prescription, and fitness to fly. Submit documentation to MAD at least 48 hours before departure.

Q6: Can I charge my medical device batteries on Air Canada planes?

A: Generally no. Most Air Canada aircraft have limited in-seat power, and cabin crew may prohibit battery charging due to fire safety policies. Some long-haul aircraft (Boeing 787, Airbus A330) have in-seat AC power outlets, but charging is at crew discretion. Best practice: Bring fully charged batteries sufficient for entire flight duration (150% of flight time).

Q7: What if my medical device is damaged during Air Canada handling?

A: Inspect your device immediately upon retrieval. If damaged, report it to the gate agent before leaving the gate area. Request a Property Irregularity Report (PIR). Air Canada is liable for damage to assistive devices under Canadian accessibility regulations. File a claim with Air Canada Customer Relations and, if unsatisfied, escalate to the Canadian Transportation Agency.

Q8: Are there different rules for Air Canada flights to/from the United States?

A: Transborder flights (U.S.-Canada) follow both Canadian and U.S. regulations. TSA (U.S. security) and CATSA (Canadian security) both screen medical devices. FAA and Transport Canada battery limits are nearly identical. Air Canada's medical device policies apply regardless of destination, but U.S. airport accessibility may differ from Canadian airports.

Key Takeaways: Your Air Canada Medical Device Travel Checklist

✅ Before Booking:

Verify your medical device is FAA-approved (POCs) or meets battery limits (all devices)
Check battery watt-hour ratings (under 100 Wh vs. 100-160 Wh affects quantity limits)
Obtain physician letter for POC travel (mandatory for Air Canada)
Decide on direct flight vs. connections (connections need extra time for accessibility)

✅ At Time of Booking:

Add medical device notation to reservation (online or call MAD: 1-800-667-4732)
Request appropriate seating (not exit row, consider window seat for under-seat storage)
Book directly with Air Canada if possible (easier to manage medical device requests)
Note aircraft type if in-flight power is needed (Boeing 787, A330 have better options)

✅ 48-72 Hours Before Flight:

Confirm medical device notation in reservation
Submit physician letter to MAD (email: medicalassistance@aircanada.ca)
If batteries 100-160 Wh, confirm Air Canada approval for spare batteries
Request email confirmation from MAD
Print all documentation (physician letter, battery specs, MAD confirmation)

✅ At Airport Check-In:

Arrive 2 hours early (domestic) or 3 hours early (international)
Check in at counter (not kiosk) for powered wheelchairs or complex devices
Show medical documentation if requested
Request priority boarding
For wheelchairs: Complete handling tag with special instructions

✅ At Security (TSA/CATSA):

Notify officer about medical device and batteries
Remove device from bag and place in separate bin
Spare batteries in separate bin with terminals visible/protected
Have documentation ready for battery verification
Allow extra time (15-30 minutes for complex devices)

✅ At Gate:

Verify seating assignment is appropriate (not exit row)
Request priority boarding if not automatically granted
Inform gate agent of medical device if requested

✅ Upon Boarding:

Inform lead flight attendant of POC use
Stow device properly (under seat or approved overhead bin location)
Verify device is accessible during flight

✅ During Flight:

Use POC as needed (all phases of flight permitted)
Monitor device function
Notify crew immediately if device malfunctions

✅ Upon Arrival:

For wheelchairs: Inspect immediately for damage before leaving gate area
Report damage or issues to gate agent, request PIR
Retrieve all batteries and device components

Important Contacts Summary:

Air Canada Medical Assistance Desk: 1-800-667-4732 (North America), +1-514-369-7039 (International)
Email: medicalassistance@aircanada.ca
Air Canada Customer Relations: aircanada.com/contact
Canadian Transportation Agency (Complaints): 1-888-222-2592, otc.gc.ca

Disclaimer: This guide provides Air Canada medical device policy information as of January 2025. Airline policies are subject to change. Always verify current requirements with Air Canada Medical Assistance Desk before travel. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. Passengers are responsible for ensuring their medical devices meet all safety regulations and obtaining appropriate medical documentation.

This comprehensive Air Canada guide is part of MedFly Safe's airline policy series, helping medical device users navigate airline-specific requirements with confidence. For more essential travel information, explore our guides on TSA medical device screening, FAA battery regulations, and major U.S. airline comparisons.