Navigate Frontier Airlines with medical devices. Complete POC, CPAP, wheelchair policies, battery limits, booking procedures, and budget carrier tips for safe, affordable travel.
Frontier Airlines Medical Device Policy: Complete 2025 Guide
Frontier Airlines, America's Greenest Airline and ultra-low-cost carrier, welcomes medical device travelers while maintaining strict fee structures. Understanding Frontier's unique policies for POCs, CPAPs, wheelchairs, and medical equipment ensures smooth, affordable travel on this budget-friendly airline.
Frontier Airlines Overview for Medical Travelers
Key Facts:
- Fleet Size: 120+ aircraft (Airbus A320 family)
- Destinations: 100+ airports across U.S., Caribbean, Mexico
- Base Hubs: Denver, Las Vegas, Orlando, Philadelphia
- Business Model: Ultra-low-cost carrier (unbundled fares)
Important: Frontier charges fees for most services, but medical devices and assistive equipment are FREE under federal regulations.
Medical Device Carry-On Policy
What Qualifies as Medical Device
Free Additional Carry-On (Doesn't Count Toward Limits):
- ✅ Portable oxygen concentrators (POCs)
- ✅ CPAP/BiPAP machines
- ✅ Wheelchairs and mobility devices
- ✅ Canes, crutches, walkers
- ✅ Prosthetic devices
- ✅ Medical supplies and medications
Frontier's Standard Baggage Fees:
- Personal item: FREE (must fit under seat)
- Full-size carry-on: $69-99 (at gate)
- Medical devices: FREE (in addition to personal item)
What This Means: You can bring personal item + medical device for free. If you want additional carry-on, fees apply.
How to Ensure Free Medical Device Carry-On
When Booking:
- Select standard fare (no baggage included)
- Note medical device during booking
- No extra payment required for medical equipment
At Airport:
- Identify medical device at check-in
- Gate agent tags device as "medical equipment"
- Board with device (no fees charged)
If Charged Incorrectly:
- Reference Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA)
- Request supervisor immediately
- Medical devices exempt from baggage fees (federal law)
Portable Oxygen Concentrator (POC) Policy
Approval and Requirements
Frontier accepts FAA-approved POCs with 48-hour advance notice.
Notification Process:
- Call Frontier Special Assistance: 1-801-401-9000
- Timing: At least 48 hours before departure
- Information to Provide:
- POC brand and model
- Battery quantity and watt-hour ratings
- Flight details
FAA-Approved POC Requirements:
- Visible FAA compliance label on device
- Batteries must not exceed 160 watt-hours each
- Maximum 2 batteries over 100 Wh (unlimited under 100 Wh)
- Battery capacity for 150% of flight duration
Commonly Used POCs on Frontier:
- Inogen G3, G4, G5 ✅
- Philips Respironics SimplyGo Mini ✅
- SeQual Eclipse 5 ✅
- Oxlife Independence ✅
- Invacare XPO2 ✅
In-Flight POC Use
Using POC During Flight:
- ✅ Allowed during all phases (taxi, takeoff, cruise, landing)
- ✅ Must be stowed under seat in front of you or on lap
- ✅ Cannot be placed in overhead bin during flight
- ⚠️ Limited power outlets (Frontier aircraft vary; not guaranteed)
Battery Requirements:
- Bring enough batteries for 150% of flight duration
- Spare batteries in carry-on only (never checked)
- Batteries under 100 Wh: unlimited quantity
- Batteries 100-160 Wh: maximum 2 spare batteries
Power Outlets: Frontier's Airbus A320neo aircraft have power outlets, but older A320s may not. Call ahead to confirm specific aircraft.
CPAP and BiPAP Machine Policy
Bringing CPAP on Frontier
CPAP machines are FREE additional carry-on items.
No Advance Notification Required (unlike POCs)
- Simply bring CPAP in addition to personal item
- No fees charged
- No special booking procedures
Packing Your CPAP:
- Original carrying case or soft-sided bag
- Place in overhead bin or under seat
- Remove humidifier water before security (refill after)
In-Flight CPAP Use: Limited. Most Frontier aircraft lack universal power outlets. Battery-powered CPAP or portable power bank recommended for in-flight use.
Wheelchair and Mobility Device Policy
Frontier's Wheelchair Services
FREE services under ACAA regulations:
- Wheelchair assistance from curb to gate
- Priority boarding for wheelchair users
- Gate-checking personal wheelchair
- Aircraft aisle chair for boarding
How to Request:
When Booking Online:
- Select "Special Services" during checkout
- Choose wheelchair assistance type
- No fees charged
By Phone:
- Call Frontier: 1-801-401-9000
- Request wheelchair services
- Specify: manual wheelchair, powered wheelchair, walker, etc.
At Airport:
- Check in at ticket counter (not kiosk)
- Agent coordinates wheelchair services
- Arrive 90 minutes before departure (earlier than non-wheelchair passengers)
Power Wheelchair Battery Requirements
Frontier accepts power wheelchairs with lithium-ion or sealed lead-acid batteries.
Advance Notification Required: 48 hours before flight
Battery Documentation:
- Battery type (lithium-ion, gel, sealed lead-acid)
- Watt-hour rating (must be visible on battery label)
- Wheelchair user manual showing battery specs
Battery Limits:
- Lithium-ion: Up to 300 Wh (with airline approval)
- Sealed lead-acid: Generally accepted (non-spillable)
- Spillable batteries: Require special packaging (advance coordination)
Check-In Process:
- Arrive at ticket counter 90 minutes early
- Present wheelchair battery documentation
- Agent inspects and tags wheelchair
- Battery terminals may be taped/disconnected for safety
- Wheelchair loaded in cargo hold
- You're transferred to airport wheelchair
Wheelchair Return:
- Power wheelchair returned at gate upon arrival
- Inspect immediately for damage
- Report damage to gate agent before leaving airport
Insulin Pumps and Diabetes Devices
TSA and In-Flight Procedures
Frontier doesn't have specific insulin pump policies (TSA and general medical device rules apply).
What You Need:
- Insulin and supplies in carry-on (never checked)
- Backup insulin supplies (3x normal amount)
- Prescriptions or physician's letter (recommended)
- Blood sugar snacks (Frontier charges for onboard snacks)
Important for Budget Carrier: Frontier doesn't provide complimentary snacks/beverages. Bring glucose tablets, juice boxes, or snacks for blood sugar management.
Fees to Avoid:
- Snacks: $5-10 each
- Beverages: $3-5 each
- Bring own snacks (allowed through TSA for medical needs)
Nebulizers and Respiratory Equipment
Portable nebulizers allowed as medical devices (free additional carry-on).
Requirements:
- Battery-powered nebulizers preferred
- Liquid medications follow TSA medical liquid rules
- Declare nebulizer at security checkpoint
In-Flight Use:
- Generally permitted if battery-powered
- Notify flight attendant before use
- Keep noise minimal (consideration for other passengers)
Booking and Check-In Procedures
How to Book as Medical Device Traveler
Online Booking (Frontier.com):
- Select flights normally
- During checkout, select "Add Special Services"
- Choose: "Traveling with Medical Device" or "Wheelchair Assistance"
- Enter device details (POC model, wheelchair type, etc.)
- Complete booking (no extra fees for medical equipment)
Phone Booking:
- Call: 1-801-401-9000
- Inform agent of medical device needs
- Agent notes in reservation
- Request confirmation email with medical device notation
At Airport Check-In:
- Arrive 90-120 minutes before departure (medical travelers need extra time)
- Check in at ticket counter (not kiosk) if using wheelchair services
- Present medical device documentation
- Gate agent tags medical equipment
Advance Notification Requirements
48-Hour Notification Required For:
- ✅ Portable oxygen concentrators (POCs)
- ✅ Power wheelchairs with lithium-ion batteries
- ✅ Ventilators and other powered respiratory equipment
No Advance Notification For:
- ✅ CPAP/BiPAP machines
- ✅ Manual wheelchairs
- ✅ Walkers, canes, crutches
- ✅ Insulin pumps and CGMs
- ✅ Portable nebulizers
How to Notify:
- Phone: 1-801-401-9000 (Frontier Special Assistance)
- Online: Manage booking → Special Services
- Timing: At least 48 hours before first flight
Seating Considerations
Best Seats for Medical Device Travelers
Bulkhead Seats:
- More legroom (helpful for mobility device users)
- No under-seat storage (POC must go on lap or overhead)
- Cost: $25-50 extra
Aisle Seats:
- Easier access to restroom
- More space for device positioning
- Cost: $8-50 depending on location
Standard Economy:
- Adequate space for most medical devices
- Under-seat storage for POC (standard size)
- Cost: Base fare (no seat selection fee if you accept assigned seat)
Stretch Seating (Extra Legroom):
- 5-7 inches more legroom
- Good for wheelchair users who need transfer space
- Cost: $30-90 extra
Medical Device Travelers and Seat Selection
Frontier charges for seat selection, but you can:
- Accept random seat assignment (free)
- Request aisle seat at check-in (no guarantee, but often accommodated)
- Pay for preferred seat if needed
Preboarding: Frontier offers preboarding for passengers with disabilities or needing extra time. Request at gate (free, no advance booking needed).
Frontier Miles and Medical Travel
Frontier Miles Program: Frontier offers frequent flyer program. Medical device travelers earn miles normally.
Elite Benefits and Medical Travel:
- Elite 20K, 50K, 100K status tiers
- Benefits: Free carry-on, priority boarding, companion discounts
- Medical devices don't affect elite status earning
Tip: If you fly Frontier frequently with medical equipment, elite status provides free carry-on allowance (beyond medical device) and priority boarding.
International Flights on Frontier
Frontier serves Mexico and Caribbean destinations.
Additional Requirements for International:
- Physician's letter (English + destination language)
- Prescriptions with generic medication names
- Customs declaration for medical devices (most countries don't require)
- Research destination country medical device regulations
Popular Frontier International Destinations:
- Cancún, Mexico
- Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
- Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
- Montego Bay, Jamaica
- San Juan, Puerto Rico (technically domestic, but bring documentation)
Fees vs. Rights: What Frontier Can and Cannot Charge
What Frontier CANNOT Charge For (Federal Law)
Prohibited Fees:
- ❌ Medical device carry-on (POC, CPAP, wheelchair)
- ❌ Wheelchair assistance (curb to gate service)
- ❌ Preboarding for passengers with disabilities
- ❌ Seat assignments for passengers who cannot sit in certain seats due to disability
- ❌ Companion seating for passenger requiring assistance
What Frontier CAN Charge For
Permitted Fees:
- ✅ Seat selection (if you choose specific seat)
- ✅ Regular carry-on bags (beyond medical device)
- ✅ Checked baggage
- ✅ Snacks and beverages (bring your own for medical needs)
- ✅ Priority boarding (unless you have disability requiring preboarding)
Budget Traveler Tips:
- Bring medical device + personal item (free)
- Pack efficiently (avoid checked bag fees)
- Bring own snacks/water (medical necessity)
- Accept random seat assignment (free)
- Request preboarding at gate (free)
Total Cost: Often just base airfare + taxes for medical travelers who pack light.
Customer Service and Assistance
Frontier Special Assistance Desk:
- Phone: 1-801-401-9000
- Hours: 6 AM - 10 PM Mountain Time, 7 days/week
- Services: POC notification, wheelchair requests, medical device questions
At Airport:
- Gate agents handle medical device issues
- Request supervisor if issues arise
- Frontier staff trained on ACAA regulations
In-Flight:
- Flight attendants assist with medical device stowing
- Can provide ice for insulin storage (free)
- Access to onboard medical kits (emergencies)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Frontier charge for my CPAP machine? A: No. CPAP machines are medical devices and exempt from baggage fees under federal law.
Q: Can I use my POC during the entire flight? A: Yes, as long as it's FAA-approved. It must be stowed under the seat or on your lap.
Q: Do I need to pay for seat selection if I have a wheelchair? A: No, if you cannot sit in certain seats due to your disability. Frontier must accommodate you without extra charge. However, general seat selection (preference, not necessity) may incur fees.
Q: Can I bring diabetes supplies and not pay baggage fees? A: Yes, medical supplies are exempt. Bring supplies in personal item or as additional medical device bag (free).
Q: What if Frontier tries to charge me for my medical device? A: Request supervisor immediately and reference Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA). Medical devices are legally exempt from fees.
Q: Can my companion fly for free to assist me? A: No, Frontier charges normal fares for companions. However, companion can sit with you if your disability requires assistance.
Q: Does Frontier provide wheelchair assistance at all airports? A: Yes, Frontier (via airport services) provides wheelchair assistance at all destinations under federal regulations.
Q: Can I check in online if I have a POC or wheelchair? A: You can check in online, but we recommend checking in at ticket counter to ensure medical device notes are confirmed and documented properly.
Conclusion: Budget-Friendly Medical Device Travel on Frontier
Frontier Airlines provides medical device accommodations at no extra cost while maintaining ultra-low-cost fares. Key strategies:
✅ Know your rights - Medical devices are FREE under ACAA ✅ Notify 48 hours ahead (POCs, power wheelchairs) ✅ Pack efficiently - Medical device + personal item (no extra fees) ✅ Bring snacks/supplies - Frontier charges for food/drinks ✅ Request preboarding - Free at gate for passengers with disabilities ✅ Check in at counter - Ensures medical device documentation in system
Frontier's budget model works well for medical travelers who understand policies and pack strategically.
Safe and affordable travels on Frontier Airlines!
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