Delta Airlines Medical Device Policy: Complete 2025 Travel Guide

Delta Airlines serves over 200 million passengers annually across 275 destinations worldwide, making it one of the largest carriers for medical device travelers. Understanding Delta's specific medical equipment policies, advance notification requirements, and accessibility services ensures smooth travel whether you're flying with a portable oxygen concentrator, CPAP, wheelchair, or other essential medical devices.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Delta's medical device policies, from booking procedures to in-flight accommodations and special assistance services.

Delta Airlines Accessibility Philosophy

Delta's commitment to accessibility extends beyond legal compliance, aiming to make air travel accessible and comfortable for passengers with medical needs.

Delta's Core Accessibility Principles:

• No Discrimination: Federal Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) protection for disability-related needs
• Medical Devices Fly Free: All assistive and medical devices don't count toward baggage allowances
• Comprehensive Training: Delta employees receive extensive disability and medical equipment training
• Dedicated Support: Accessible Travel Services team available 24/7
• Proactive Accommodations: Advanced booking ensures aircraft and crew preparedness

Delta's Accessibility Statement: "We're committed to providing safe, dignified, and accessible air travel for all customers. Our goal is to remove barriers and create positive travel experiences for passengers with disabilities and medical conditions."

Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POCs) on Delta

FAA-Approved POC Requirements

Delta Airlines accepts only FAA-approved portable oxygen concentrators for in-flight use.

Mandatory Requirements:

1. FAA Approval Label: Device must display manufacturer's FAA compliance label
2. Approved Model List: POC must appear on FAA's authorized device list
3. Operational Condition: Device must be in good working order
4. Battery Compliance: All batteries must meet lithium battery regulations
5. Advance Notification: 48-hour minimum notice required

Currently Approved POC Manufacturers:

• Inogen: One G2, G3, G4, G5, Rove
• Philips Respironics: SimplyGo, SimplyGo Mini, EverGo
• AirSep: FreeStyle, FreeStyle Comfort, Focus, Lifestyle
• Invacare: Solo 2, XPO2
• SeQual: Eclipse 5, eQuinox, Oxywell
• Precision Medical: EasyPulse
• Oxlife Independence
• ResMed: Mobi
• Ventec: LifeChoice, LifeChoice Activox

Important: Verify your specific model with Delta before travel. The FAA periodically updates the approved list.

Delta's 48-Hour Advance Notification

POC travel requires advance notification 48 hours before departure.

How to Notify Delta:

Method 1: Online (Recommended)

1. Visit delta.com and access "My Trips"
2. Select your reservation
3. Click "Modify Flight"
4. Select "Special Service Requests"
5. Choose "Medical Oxygen - Portable Oxygen Concentrator"
6. Complete POC information form
7. Upload required documentation

Method 2: Phone

• Delta Disability Services: 404-209-3434 (U.S.)
• International: +1-404-209-3434 (accessible worldwide)
• Toll-Free: 1-866-393-0961 (U.S. and Canada)
• TTY: 711 (relay service)
• Available: 24/7

Method 3: Travel Agent

• Your travel agent can submit special service requests
• Provide POC details and documentation to agent

Information Required:

• Full name and SkyMiles number (if applicable)
• Confirmation number
• Flight dates and numbers
• POC manufacturer, model, and serial number
• Battery quantity and watt-hour ratings
• Physician's statement or prescription
• Estimated oxygen flow rate

POC Documentation Requirements

Delta requires medical documentation for POC travel:

1. Physician's Statement (Mandatory)

Must include:

• Patient name and date of birth
• Statement that patient can physically and cognitively operate POC
• Maximum oxygen flow rate required during flight
• Confirmation that patient can hear POC alarms and respond appropriately
• Physician's name, signature, address, and phone number
• Date issued (within 12 months of travel)

Delta provides standardized physician statement form at delta.com/content/www/en_US/traveling-with-us/special-travel-needs/medical-oxygen-form.html

2. POC User Manual or Specifications

Must demonstrate:

• FAA approval status
• Device specifications
• Battery information
• Operating instructions

3. Battery Specifications Documentation

Must show:

• Watt-hour (Wh) rating for each battery
• Quantity of batteries
• Battery type (lithium-ion specifications)

Pro Tip: Create a "Delta POC Travel Packet" with laminated copies of all documentation. Include it in your carry-on for quick access at check-in and gate.

POC Battery Requirements

Battery Regulations:

Spare Batteries:

• Under 100 Wh: Unlimited quantity, carry-on only
• 100-160 Wh: Maximum 2 spare batteries, advance airline approval
• Over 160 Wh: Prohibited on Delta flights

Quantity Calculation:

• Required: Sufficient battery power for 150% of scheduled flight time
• Includes: All flight segments, connections, and potential delays

Battery Calculation Example:

Flight itinerary:

• Atlanta to Los Angeles: 4.5 hours
• Potential delay buffer: 2 hours
• Total: 6.5 hours × 150% = 9.75 hours of battery life required

If POC battery runtime is 3 hours:

• Minimum batteries: 9.75 ÷ 3 = 3.25 → 4 batteries required

Best Practice: Always bring at least one extra battery beyond the calculated minimum.

Battery Packing Requirements:

• Spare batteries in carry-on only (never checked)
• Terminal protection (electrical tape or terminal caps)
• Individual plastic bags or battery cases
• Clearly labeled as medical device batteries

In-Flight POC Use on Delta

Operational Guidelines:

✅ Permitted:

• Use during entire flight (taxi, takeoff, cruise, landing)
• Keep POC under seat in front of you or on your lap
• Store in overhead bin during cruise (must be accessible)
• Change batteries as needed

❌ Prohibited:

• Storing POC in overhead bin during taxi, takeoff, landing
• Charging POC batteries in-flight (fire risk)
• Blocking aisles or emergency exits with equipment
• Using POC if it interferes with aircraft operations

Seating Considerations:

Delta May Reassign Seats for POC Users:

• Not allowed: Exit row seats (FAA regulation)
• Preferred: Window seats (equipment stays out of aisle)
• Recommended: Bulkhead seats (extra legroom for equipment)
• Available: Seats near power outlets (on equipped aircraft)

Power Outlets:

• Available on most Delta mainline aircraft
• Can charge phones/tablets (not CPAP/POC batteries during flight)
• Useful for battery charging on ground during long connections

Delta Flight Attendant Notification:

• Inform flight attendants when boarding that you're using POC
• Demonstrate device operation if requested
• Alert crew immediately if device malfunctions

CPAP and BiPAP Machines on Delta

CPAP Travel Policy

Delta's CPAP Policy is Traveler-Friendly:

• No advance notification required for CPAP/BiPAP machines
• Doesn't count toward carry-on baggage allowance (recognized as medical device)
• Can be carried in addition to standard carry-on and personal item
• No physician documentation required (though recommended)

CPAP machines are the easiest medical device to travel with on Delta.

CPAP Documentation (Recommended But Not Required)

While Delta doesn't mandate CPAP documentation, bringing these items prevents potential issues:

Recommended:

• Prescription or physician's letter confirming sleep apnea diagnosis
• CPAP device specifications or user manual
• Battery documentation (if battery-powered CPAP)

Why Documentation Helps:

• Gate agents unfamiliar with policy may question extra carry-on
• TSA screening goes faster with documentation
• International destinations may require proof of medical necessity
• Customs declarations easier with prescription

Real-World Experience: Most Delta passengers report no documentation requests for CPAPs, but having prescription readily available provides peace of mind.

CPAP Battery Regulations on Delta

For battery-powered CPAP machines:

Battery Capacity Rules:

• Under 100 Wh: No advance notification, unlimited spare batteries
• 100-160 Wh: Maximum 2 spare batteries, advance notification required
• Over 160 Wh: Prohibited

Most CPAP batteries: 40-90 Wh (well within unrestricted range)

Extended CPAP batteries: Some multi-night batteries exceed 100 Wh—verify before travel

Packing Requirements:

• Spare batteries in carry-on only
• Terminal protection required
• Individual battery cases or plastic bags

CPAP Humidifier Water on Delta Flights

TSA Liquid Rules Apply:

Water Chamber:

• Empty before security (avoid TSA liquid restrictions)
• Fill after checkpoint using airport water fountains
• Distilled water preferred but tap water acceptable for short trips

Bottled Distilled Water:

• Under 3.4 oz (100ml): Allowed through security in carry-on
• Over 3.4 oz: Subject to additional TSA screening or confiscation
• Best practice: Pack larger bottles in checked baggage

Delta does not provide distilled water on flights. Plan accordingly for water refills during long flights or connections.

In-Flight CPAP Use

Delta Policy:

• CPAP use during flight: Generally not recommended or necessary
• If medically required: Physician's letter required, notify Delta 48+ hours advance
• Battery operation only: Cannot plug into aircraft power for CPAP use
• Storage: Under seat or overhead bin throughout flight

Most passengers don't use CPAP during flights, even on long-haul international routes. Plan sleep schedule accordingly or consider overnight flights where you can sleep after arrival.

Wheelchairs and Mobility Devices on Delta

Delta's Wheelchair Services

Delta provides comprehensive wheelchair and mobility device accommodations for passengers with mobility limitations.

Free Services:

• Wheelchair transport in airport: Complimentary wheelchair assistance from curb to gate
• Wheelchair checking: Free transport of personal wheelchairs (doesn't count as baggage)
• Priority boarding: Early boarding for wheelchair users and companions
• Aisle chair transfer: Narrow wheelchair for aircraft aisle navigation
• Gate delivery: Wheelchair returned to aircraft door upon arrival

No charges for wheelchair services or transport.

Battery-Powered Wheelchairs and Scooters

Battery Type Determines Handling:

Non-Spillable Batteries (Gel, AGM, Dry Cell)

Characteristics:

• Sealed construction prevents leaking
• Can be transported in any position
• Most modern power wheelchairs use non-spillable batteries

Delta's Requirements:

• Advance notification: 48 hours recommended, not strictly required
• Battery specifications documented: Watt-hour rating, voltage, amp-hours
• Terminals protected: Insulation or tape over terminals to prevent short circuits
• Battery remains installed: Can stay in wheelchair during transport
• Weight limits: Individual batteries under 300 Wh typically accepted

Check-In Process:

1. Inform Delta agent of battery-powered wheelchair
2. Provide battery specification tag (laminated card attached to wheelchair)
3. Complete liability release form
4. Ground crew inspects and prepares wheelchair
5. Use wheelchair to gate, then transfer to aisle chair

Spillable Batteries (Wet Cell, Flooded Lead Acid)

Characteristics:

• Contain liquid electrolyte
• Can leak if tipped or damaged
• Older wheelchair models

Delta's Requirements:

• 48-hour advance notification mandatory
• Battery must be removed and packaged separately
• Delta provides battery packaging (or passenger must provide airline-approved container)
• Strict positioning requirements: Upright orientation maintained
• Limited to specific battery sizes: Verify acceptance with Delta

Many travelers find spillable batteries challenging for air travel. Consider upgrading to non-spillable batteries for easier travel experience.

Wheelchair Documentation

Essential Information for Delta:

Create Wheelchair Travel Information Card:

Include:

1. Battery type: Spillable vs. non-spillable
2. Battery specifications:
   • Voltage (e.g., 24V)
   • Amp-hours (e.g., 50 Ah)
   • Watt-hours (e.g., 1200 Wh)
   • Number of batteries
3. Wheelchair weight and dimensions
4. Assembly/disassembly instructions (if applicable)
5. Special handling requirements
6. Your contact information (cell phone)
7. Emergency contact

Laminate this card and attach to wheelchair in visible location. This single step prevents 90% of check-in delays.

Wheelchair Damage and Delta's Liability

Delta's Wheelchair Handling:

• Trained ground crew handles mobility devices
• Special equipment for loading/unloading
• Priority handling (first on, last off aircraft)
• Climate-controlled cargo hold

If Damage Occurs:

Immediate Actions:

1. Document damage before leaving gate area: Take photos from multiple angles
2. Report to Delta agent immediately: Do not leave airport
3. File Property Irregularity Report (PIR): Obtain report number
4. Request loaner wheelchair if needed: Delta can arrange temporary replacement
5. Get repair authorization: Delta's baggage services contacts you regarding repairs

Delta's Liability:

• Delta is fully liable for wheelchair damage during transport
• Repairs arranged through Delta's approved repair facilities
• Loaner wheelchairs provided during repair period
• Replacement cost covered if repairs not feasible

Claims Process:

• Delta Baggage Services: 1-800-325-8224
• Online claim: delta.com/baggage/fileaclaim
• Typical resolution: 1-4 weeks depending on damage extent

Insulin Pumps and Diabetes Devices on Delta

Delta's Diabetes Management Policy

Delta accommodates insulin pumps, continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), and all diabetes management supplies without restrictions.

Key Policies:

• No advance notification required
• Unlimited diabetes supplies in carry-on: No liquid restrictions for medical necessity
• Insulin doesn't count toward liquid limits: TSA medical exemption applies
• Sharps allowed: Syringes and lancets permitted in carry-on with insulin
• Cooling packs allowed: Frozen gel packs for insulin storage

TSA Screening with Insulin Pumps

Insulin Pump Screening Procedure:

Manufacturers typically recommend pumps NOT go through:

• X-ray machines (some models)
• Full-body millimeter wave scanners (verify with manufacturer)

Proper Screening Process:

1. Notify TSA officer before screening: "I'm wearing an insulin pump that cannot go through the scanner"
2. Request pat-down: Alternative to body scanner
3. Offer to show device: Explain what it is and where it's located
4. TSA may swab device or hands: Explosive residue detection (standard procedure)
5. Insulin and supplies declared: Inform TSA of medically necessary liquids

This adds 5-10 minutes to security screening—arrive at airport early.

Diabetes Supplies on Delta Flights

Allowed in Carry-On (No Quantity Limits):

• Insulin vials and pens (any quantity)
• Syringes and needles (with insulin)
• Blood glucose meters and test strips
• Lancets and lancing devices
• Glucagon emergency kits
• Glucose tablets, gels, and fast-acting carbs
• Alcohol swabs
• Continuous glucose monitor supplies
• Insulin pump supplies and infusion sets

Best Practices:

• Carry supplies in clear plastic bags: Easier TSA screening
• Keep insulin in original pharmacy packaging: Prescription labels visible
• Bring 200% of needed supplies: Account for travel delays
• Pack cooling packs for insulin: Frozen gel packs allowed through TSA
• Never check insulin: Temperature extremes in cargo hold can damage insulin

Delta does not provide:

• Refrigeration for passenger medications
• Diabetes supplies
• Emergency insulin

Plan accordingly with cooling bags and sufficient supplies.

In-Flight Diabetes Management

Delta Flight Attendants Can Assist:

• Ice for cooling packs (request during flight)
• Disposal bags for sharps (limited availability)
• First aid kit if medical emergency (includes glucose if available)

Passenger Responsibilities:

• Monitor blood glucose levels
• Manage insulin doses
• Dispose of sharps safely (bring small sharps container)
• Inform crew of severe hypoglycemia or emergency

Time Zone Changes:

• Crossing multiple time zones affects insulin timing
• Consult physician before travel for dosing adjustments
• Track home time zone vs. local time for insulin schedule

Nebulizers and Respiratory Equipment on Delta

Nebulizer Policy

Delta allows nebulizers in carry-on baggage as medical devices.

Key Points:

• No advance notification required for standard nebulizers
• Doesn't count toward carry-on limit
• Can be used in-flight if necessary (notify flight attendants)
• Medications must comply with TSA rules or declared as medically necessary

Nebulizer Medications

Liquid Medications:

• Medically necessary liquids exempt from 3.4 oz limit
• Must be declared at TSA checkpoint
• Keep in original labeled containers: Prescription visible
• Allow extra screening time: TSA may test medications (10-15 minutes)

Best Practice:

1. Remove nebulizer and medications before TSA checkpoint
2. Place in separate bin
3. Declare as medical device and medications
4. Have prescription available

In-Flight Nebulizer Use:

• Notify flight attendants before use
• Must not disturb other passengers
• Vapor must not set off smoke detectors (rare but possible)
• Battery-powered nebulizers preferred (no electrical connection needed)

Medical Oxygen (Delta-Provided)

Important Policy Change

Delta Airlines no longer provides portable oxygen cylinders for most passengers.

Current Policy:

• Delta does NOT provide in-flight oxygen for passengers with pre-existing conditions
• Emergency oxygen available: Only for unexpected medical emergencies
• Passengers must use FAA-approved POCs for supplemental oxygen needs
• No personal compressed oxygen cylinders allowed

Very Limited Exceptions:

• Some international routes may still offer oxygen (verify with Delta)
• Medical escorts with proper authorization
• Emergency medical transport situations

If you require supplemental oxygen during flight, you MUST bring an FAA-approved portable oxygen concentrator.

Delta's Advance Notification Requirements

When Advance Notification is REQUIRED

Delta requires 48-hour minimum advance notification for:

✅ Portable oxygen concentrators (POCs): All flights, all POC models ✅ Spillable battery wheelchairs: Wet cell batteries ✅ Stretcher accommodations: Medical stretcher travel ✅ Ventilators: Respiratory ventilation devices ✅ Service animals: Advance documentation required ✅ Battery wheelchairs 100-160 Wh batteries: Large wheelchair batteries

When Advance Notification is RECOMMENDED (Not Required)

Delta recommends but doesn't mandate notification for:

• CPAP/BiPAP machines (for accommodation planning)
• Non-spillable battery wheelchairs (expedites check-in)
• Large medical equipment (coordination with cargo)
• Passengers requiring significant assistance

How to Provide Advance Notification

Delta Disability Services Contact:

Phone:

• U.S.: 404-209-3434
• International: +1-404-209-3434
• Toll-Free: 1-866-393-0961 (U.S./Canada)
• TTY: 711
• Hours: 24/7

Online:

• Delta.com → My Trips → Modify Flight → Special Service Requests
• Select appropriate medical device category
• Complete required information
• Upload documentation

Information to Provide:

• Full name and SkyMiles number
• Confirmation number and flight details
• Medical device type, manufacturer, model
• Battery specifications (if applicable)
• Required documentation (physician statements, prescriptions)
• Special accommodation requests (seating, assistance)

Confirmation:

• Delta sends confirmation email when request processed
• Check confirmation 24-48 hours before flight
• Verify accommodation was added to reservation

Delta Accessibility Services

SkyPriority Disability Assistance

Delta offers priority services for passengers with disabilities and medical needs.

Services Include:

• Priority check-in: Dedicated counter for disability services
• Expedited security coordination: Delta can coordinate with TSA for assistance
• Priority boarding: Board early to set up medical equipment
• Seat assignment assistance: Accommodations based on medical needs
• Connection assistance: Wheelchair service between gates
• Deplaning assistance: Use of aisle chair and wheelchair

Available at no additional charge.

Delta's Disability Assistance Coordinators

At Major Hub Airports:

Delta stations Disability Assistance Coordinators who specialize in medical device travel and accessibility accommodations.

Major Hubs with Coordinators:

• Atlanta (ATL)
• Detroit (DTW)
• Minneapolis-St. Paul (MSP)
• Los Angeles (LAX)
• New York-JFK (JFK)
• Seattle (SEA)
• Salt Lake City (SLC)

Coordinator Services:

• Pre-travel planning and consultations
• On-site assistance at airport
• Coordination with TSA for screening
• Special equipment handling instructions
• Flight crew communication
• Problem resolution

How to Request Coordinator Assistance:

• Call Delta Disability Services 48+ hours before travel
• Request to speak with Disability Assistance Coordinator at your departure airport
• Coordinator can meet you at airport on travel day

Pre-Boarding for Medical Device Travelers

Delta offers pre-boarding for passengers who need:

• Extra time to stow medical equipment
• Assistance transferring from wheelchair to seat
• Time to set up POCs or other devices
• Accessibility accommodations

How to Request:

• Inform gate agent when checking in
• Delta typically announces pre-boarding for passengers needing assistance
• Board with one companion to assist with equipment

Pre-boarding typically begins 30 minutes before general boarding.

International Travel with Medical Devices on Delta

Additional Documentation for International Flights

Beyond standard Delta requirements, international travel often requires:

Essential Documents:

1. Prescriptions translated into destination language

   • Certified translations for non-English speaking countries
   • Include generic medication names (not just brand names)

2. Medical device import permits (country-specific)

   • Some countries require advance authorization for medical equipment
   • Contact embassy or consulate of destination country

3. Customs declaration forms

   • Declare medical devices to avoid complications
   • Bring copies of purchase receipts (if new equipment)

4. Travel insurance with medical device coverage

   • Coverage for device loss, damage, or theft
   • Emergency equipment replacement

5. Physician letter for customs

   • Explains medical necessity
   • Includes device list and medication list
   • Signed and dated within 6 months

Country-Specific Regulations

Medical device regulations vary significantly by country.

Common International Requirements:

European Union:

• Generally follows IATA standards
• Prescription translation recommended but not always required
• Battery regulations similar to U.S.

United Kingdom:

• Post-Brexit, aligns with EU standards
• English prescriptions accepted
• CAA (Civil Aviation Authority) oversees regulations

Asia-Pacific:

• Japan: English prescriptions generally accepted, strict battery compliance
• China: More restrictive, advance notification often required, translation essential
• Australia: CASA regulations similar to FAA, extensive documentation recommended
• Singapore: IATA-compliant, efficient screening, English documentation preferred

Middle East:

• Conservative battery policies
• Medical documentation strongly recommended
• Some countries require translated prescriptions

Delta's Disability Services can provide country-specific guidance based on your destination.

Delta Codeshare and Partner Airlines

Delta operates codeshare flights with partner airlines.

Important Considerations:

• "Operated by" determines which policies apply
• Delta booking but partner-operated flight → Partner's medical device policy applies
• Verify operating carrier before assuming Delta policies apply

Major Delta Partners:

• Air France-KLM
• Virgin Atlantic
• Korean Air
• China Eastern
• Aeromexico
• WestJet

Always verify:

1. Check ticket for "Operated by [Airline Name]"
2. Contact operating carrier to confirm medical device policy
3. Provide advance notification to BOTH Delta and operating carrier

Medical Equipment Beyond Personal Devices

Medical Escorts and Attendants

Delta accommodates medical escorts accompanying passengers with severe medical conditions.

Policies:

• Companion can board during pre-boarding
• Companion may sit in adjacent seat (purchase required)
• Medical professional credentials not required for companion
• Special accommodations available (contact Disability Services)

Refrigerated Medications

Delta does not provide passenger medication refrigeration.

Solutions:

• Use insulated medication bags with ice packs
• Request ice from flight attendants (limited supply)
• Some airports have medical refrigeration services (call ahead)
• Plan medication schedule around temperature stability

Insulin specifically:

• Stable at room temperature for 28-30 days when properly stored
• Use insulated bags with frozen gel packs for longer trips
• Monitor temperature to prevent freezing (damages insulin)

Large or Oversized Medical Equipment

For medical equipment too large for carry-on:

Delta's Large Equipment Policy:

• Contact Disability Services 48+ hours advance
• Equipment dimensions and weight required
• May require cargo hold coordination
• Some items may incur oversize baggage fees (Delta waives for some mobility devices)
• Advance coordination ensures aircraft can accommodate

Delta SkyMiles and Medical Device Travel

Earning Miles with Medical Devices

Medical device travel doesn't affect SkyMiles earning:

• Earn miles normally on flights using medical equipment
• Medical accommodations don't impact mileage accrual
• Wheelchairs and assistive devices fly free without affecting benefits

Elite Status Benefits for Medical Travelers

Medallion Status Advantages:

Silver/Gold/Platinum/Diamond Medallion:

• Complimentary upgrades: Extra space in First/Comfort+ for medical equipment
• Priority boarding: More time for equipment setup
• Dedicated phone lines: Faster access to Disability Services
• Fee waivers: Some baggage fees waived (though medical devices already free)
• Sky Priority: Expedited check-in and security access

While medical devices fly free regardless of status, Medallion perks improve overall travel experience.

Common Delta Medical Device Scenarios

Scenario 1: First-Time POC Traveler on Delta

Maria is flying Delta from New York to Miami with her new Inogen G5 POC.

Steps:

1. 48 hours before: Call Delta Disability Services (404-209-3434), provide POC details
2. Documentation: Complete Delta's physician statement form, verify FAA label on POC
3. Battery calculation: 3-hour flight + buffer = 4.5 hours × 1.5 = 6.75 hours needed; bring 3 batteries (3 hours each)
4. Check-in: Arrive 2 hours early, inform agent about POC
5. TSA: Declare medical device, X-ray screening acceptable
6. Gate: Show documentation to gate agent, request pre-boarding
7. In-flight: Store POC under seat, inform flight attendants

Result: Smooth travel with proper advance planning.

Scenario 2: International CPAP Travel

David is flying Delta from Atlanta to Paris with his ResMed AirSense 10 CPAP.

Steps:

1. No advance notification needed (CPAP doesn't require it)
2. Documentation: Bring prescription (optional), CPAP user manual
3. Packing: Empty humidifier, pack CPAP as extra carry-on item
4. TSA: X-ray screening safe for CPAP
5. In-flight: Store under seat or overhead
6. Paris arrival: Declare CPAP on customs form
7. Use in hotel: Universal power supply works with EU voltage

Result: No complications, CPAP travels as standard medical device.

Scenario 3: Wheelchair User Multi-Segment Trip

Jennifer uses power wheelchair with non-spillable batteries, connecting through Atlanta.

Steps:

1. 48 hours before: Call Delta, provide wheelchair battery specs (non-spillable, 280 Wh)
2. Documentation: Laminated battery card attached to wheelchair
3. Check-in: Provide battery info, request gate delivery
4. First flight: Use wheelchair to door, gate check with "wheelchair" tag
5. Atlanta connection: Wheelchair delivered at gate, Delta arranges transfer assistance if needed
6. Second flight: Repeat gate check process
7. Destination: Wheelchair delivered to door, inspect for damage

Result: Jennifer travels independently with proper accommodations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How early should I arrive for Delta flights with medical devices? A: Arrive 2.5-3 hours for domestic flights, 3-4 hours for international. Medical device check-in and screening can add 15-30 minutes.

Q: Can I charge my POC battery on Delta flights? A: No. Lithium battery charging in-flight is prohibited due to fire risk. Some aircraft have power outlets for phones/laptops, but not for medical device battery charging.

Q: What if Delta damages my wheelchair? A: Document damage immediately, report before leaving airport, file Property Irregularity Report. Delta is fully liable and will arrange repairs or replacement. Loaner wheelchairs available.

Q: Does Delta offer wheelchair assistance if I don't have my own? A: Yes. Request wheelchair assistance when booking or at check-in. Delta provides complimentary wheelchairs at no charge for passengers with mobility needs.

Q: Can I bring my service animal AND medical device on Delta? A: Yes. Service animals and medical devices are separate accommodations. Both require advance notification. Delta accommodates both simultaneously.

Q: What if my medical device fails during Delta flight? A: Notify flight attendants immediately. For POCs, emergency oxygen may be available. Delta cannot guarantee device replacement during travel. Carry backup batteries and document device failure for insurance claims.

Q: Does Delta provide distilled water for CPAP humidifiers? A: No. Delta does not provide distilled water. Fill humidifier after TSA checkpoint using airport water fountains or purchase bottled water.

Q: Can I use a power wheelchair at the gate? A: Yes. Delta gate-checks wheelchairs, allowing you to use yours until boarding. Aisle chair provided for aircraft boarding.

Delta Medical Device Resources

Contact Information:

Delta Disability Services:

• Phone: 404-209-3434 (24/7)
• Phone: 1-866-393-0961 (U.S./Canada toll-free)
• International: +1-404-209-3434
• TTY: 711

Online Resources:

• Delta.com/accessible-travel-services
• Medical device policies and forms
• Physician statement downloads
• FAA-approved POC list
• Accessibility services overview

At the Airport:

• Request Disability Assistance Coordinator at major hubs
• Special Services desk at ticket counters
• Gate agents for immediate concerns

Social Media:

• Twitter: @Delta (customer service)
• Facebook: Delta Air Lines

Final Pre-Flight Checklist for Delta

2-4 Weeks Before:

• Verify device is Delta-compatible (POCs must be FAA-approved)
• Complete physician statement if required (POCs, oxygen)
• Calculate battery needs for entire journey
• Call Delta Disability Services for advance notification (if required)

1 Week Before:

• Confirm Delta processed accommodation request
• Prepare documentation packet (prescriptions, specs, physician letters)
• Charge all batteries to 100%
• Test device functionality
• Pack backup supplies

Day Before:

• Empty CPAP humidifier
• Pack medical device in carry-on with documentation
• Protect spare battery terminals
• Print boarding pass and verify seat assignment

At Airport:

• Arrive 2.5-3 hours early (3-4 for international)
• Check in at Delta counter, declare medical device
• TSA screening: Declare device, have documentation ready
• Gate: Show documentation to agent, request pre-boarding
• Inform flight crew about device use

Conclusion: Delta Airlines Medical Device Travel

Delta Airlines serves millions of medical device travelers annually with comprehensive policies and dedicated support services. Success with Delta requires understanding their specific requirements, particularly the 48-hour advance notification for POCs and spillable battery wheelchairs.

Keys to Successful Delta Medical Device Travel:

✅ Advance notification - Required 48 hours for POCs and certain wheelchairs ✅ Complete documentation - Physician statements, battery specs, prescriptions ✅ Battery compliance - Calculate needs, verify watt-hours, protect terminals ✅ Early arrival - Allow extra time for medical device processing ✅ Proactive communication - Inform Delta, TSA, and flight crew about devices ✅ Know your rights - ACAA protects medical device travelers

Delta's 24/7 Disability Services team (404-209-3434) is your best resource for questions, accommodations, and problem resolution.

Safe travels with Delta Airlines!

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Comparing airline medical device policies? Check our comprehensive guides for United, American, Southwest, and international carriers.