Spirit Airlines Medical Device Policy: Complete 2025 Guide

Spirit Airlines operates as an ultra-low-cost carrier, but this doesn't mean compromises on medical device accommodations. Understanding Spirit's specific policies, booking procedures, and traveler rights ensures you can fly affordably while safely transporting your portable oxygen concentrator, CPAP machine, wheelchair, or other essential medical equipment.

Spirit Airlines Medical Device Overview

Key Policy Highlights:

• POCs allowed: FAA-approved portable oxygen concentrators permitted
• CPAP carry-on exemption: Yes, doesn't count toward bag limit
• Wheelchair accommodation: Full accessibility with advance notice
• Battery limits: Standard FAA regulations apply
• Advance notification: 48-72 hours recommended for some devices
• Documentation: Medical necessity letters helpful but not always required

Spirit Airlines Accessibility Statement: "Spirit Airlines is committed to providing safe, dignified, and accessible air transportation to all passengers. We comply with all Department of Transportation regulations regarding passengers with disabilities and medical device transportation."

Portable Oxygen Concentrator (POC) Policies

FAA-Approved POC Requirements

Spirit accepts these FAA-approved POCs:

• Inogen One series (G3, G4, G5)
• Philips Respironics SimplyGo, SimplyGo Mini
• SeQual Eclipse, eQuinox
• Invacare XPO2, Platinum Mobile
• AirSep FreeStyle, Focus, Lifestyle
• ResMed Mobi
• Caire FreeStyle Comfort
• All devices on current FAA approval list

Verification Process:

1. Check FAA approval list: faa.gov/about/initiatives/cabin_safety/pocs
2. Confirm POC has visible FAA approval label
3. Bring POC user manual showing FAA approval
4. Have medical prescription or doctor's letter available

Booking with a POC on Spirit Airlines

Advance Notification:

Required: 48 hours before departure

How to notify Spirit:

1. During online booking:

   • Select "Special Services" during checkout
   • Check "Portable Oxygen Concentrator" box
   • Provide POC model and manufacturer

2. After booking:

   • Call Spirit: 1-855-728-3555
   • Select "Special Services" option
   • Provide confirmation number and POC details

3. At airport (not recommended):

   • Arrive 2+ hours early
   • Speak with Special Services desk
   • May experience delays or complications

Information to Provide:

• POC manufacturer and model
• Number of spare batteries
• Battery watt-hour ratings
• Medical necessity (brief description)

POC Battery Requirements

Battery Limits (FAA Standard):

Under 100 Wh:

• Unlimited spare batteries
• Must be in carry-on luggage only
• Individual short-circuit protection required

100-160 Wh:

• Maximum 2 spare batteries per passenger
• Spirit requires advance notification
• Must have visible watt-hour labeling

Over 160 Wh:

• Not permitted on Spirit flights

Battery Calculation Needed?

If your POC batteries aren't labeled with watt-hours:

1. Find voltage (V) and amp-hours (Ah) on battery
2. Calculate: Wh = V × Ah
3. Example: 14.4V × 6.2Ah = 89.28 Wh (under 100 Wh limit)

Packaging Requirements:

• Original manufacturer packaging (preferred)
• Hard plastic battery cases
• Individual plastic bags with terminals taped
• NO loose batteries touching each other

Using POC During Flight

Permitted:

• POC use during entire flight (including takeoff/landing)
• Storing POC under seat in front of you
• Placing POC on lap during use
• Changing batteries during flight

Not Permitted:

• Charging POC batteries during flight (Spirit policy)
• Blocking aisle or emergency exits with POC
• Storing POC in overhead bin while in use

Seat Selection with POC:

Spirit recommends:

• Window or middle seat - Easier POC storage under seat
• Avoid exit rows - Medical device users cannot sit in exit rows per FAA regulations
• Front of cabin - Closer to assistance if needed

Flight attendants cannot:

• Operate your POC
• Troubleshoot POC malfunctions
• Store or retrieve POC from overhead bins (you must do this)

CPAP and BiPAP Machine Policies

CPAP Carry-On Exemption

Spirit Airlines CPAP Policy (Updated 2025):

CPAP and BiPAP machines do NOT count toward Spirit's carry-on bag limit.

What this means:

• Personal item (free): Purse, laptop bag, small backpack
• Carry-on bag (fee applies): Standard roller bag or duffel
• CPAP device (FREE): Additional carry-on exempt from fees

Standard Spirit Bag Policy:

• Personal item: Free (18" x 14" x 8")
• Carry-on bag: $41-$65 depending on booking time
• With CPAP exemption: Personal item + carry-on bag + CPAP = 3 items allowed

CPAP Advance Notification

Is notification required?

Not technically required, but strongly recommended:

Benefits of notifying Spirit:

• Gate agents aware of CPAP exemption (fewer challenges)
• Documentation on file if questions arise
• Smoother boarding process
• Confirms you understand exemption rules

How to notify:

• Call Spirit: 1-855-728-3555 ("Special Services")
• Mention: "I'm traveling with a CPAP machine as a medical device"
• Confirmation number provided

CPAP Packing for Spirit Flights

Optimal CPAP Packing:

1. Dedicated CPAP bag - Clearly medical device appearance

2. Include in bag:

   • CPAP machine
   • Hose and mask
   • Power supply
   • Distilled water (empty chamber, fill after security)
   • Prescription or medical necessity letter

3. Label bag externally:

   • "Medical Device - CPAP Machine"
   • "Does Not Count Toward Carry-On Limit"
   • Your name and contact info

Gate Agent Challenges:

If Spirit gate agent questions CPAP exemption:

1. Politely state: "This is a CPAP machine, which is a medical device exempt from carry-on limits per DOT regulations."
2. Show documentation: Medical prescription or necessity letter
3. Reference Spirit policy: Mention you called ahead and received confirmation
4. Request supervisor: If agent still denies, ask for supervisor
5. File complaint: After flight, contact DOT if rights violated

DOT Complaint Process:

• Website: airconsumer.dot.gov/escomplaint/ConsumerForm.cfm
• Phone: 1-202-366-2220
• Include: Flight details, agent name (if possible), description of issue

Wheelchair and Mobility Device Policies

Advance Notification Requirements

Spirit requires notification:

48-72 hours before flight for:

• Power wheelchairs
• Manual wheelchairs (recommended, not required)
• Scooters
• Walkers and canes (no notification needed, but helpful)

How to notify:

1. Call Spirit Special Services: 1-855-728-3555
2. Provide wheelchair specifications:
   • Type (power or manual)
   • Weight and dimensions
   • Battery type (if power wheelchair)
   • Folding capability

Wheelchair Battery Compliance

Battery Types Accepted:

Spillable (Wet Cell) Batteries:

• Must be disconnected and removed
• Packaged in airline-approved battery box
• Spirit provides battery packaging at no charge
• Battery terminals must be insulated

Non-Spillable (Gel, AGM) Batteries:

• May remain installed if under 300 Wh
• Battery terminals must be protected
• Wheelchair must be secured upright

Lithium Batteries (2025 FAA Update):

• Under 160 Wh: Standard handling
• 160-300 Wh: Allowed with advance approval
• Over 300 Wh: Not permitted (ship separately)

Documentation Required:

• Battery watt-hour rating or amp-hour specification
• Wheelchair manufacturer info
• Battery type certification

Wheelchair Handling Procedures

At Check-In:

1. Arrive 90+ minutes before departure
2. Check in at Spirit ticket counter (not kiosk)
3. Special Services representative will:
   • Inspect wheelchair
   • Document condition (take photos if concerned)
   • Tag wheelchair for gate check
   • Provide claim ticket

Wheelchair Storage:

• Manual wheelchairs: Priority storage in aircraft hold
• Power wheelchairs: Secured upright in cargo hold
• Batteries: Handled per FAA dangerous goods regulations

At Gate:

• Use your wheelchair to gate
• Transfer to aisle chair for boarding
• Spirit crew loads wheelchair onto aircraft
• Wheelchair returned at destination gate (not baggage claim)

If Wheelchair is Damaged:

1. Inspect immediately upon return at gate
2. Report damage to gate agent before leaving airport
3. File claim: Spirit Baggage Service Office
4. Document damage: Photos, written description
5. Obtain report number: For tracking claim

Spirit Wheelchair Damage Liability:

Per Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA):

• Spirit liable for wheelchair damage during air travel
• Must provide loaner wheelchair if yours damaged
• Repair or replacement within reasonable time
• Keep all receipts for reimbursement

Aisle Chairs and Onboard Assistance

Spirit provides:

• Aisle chair for boarding/deplaning
• Assistance transferring to aircraft seat
• Wheelchair storage and retrieval

Spirit does NOT provide:

• Bathroom assistance during flight
• Lifting or carrying passengers
• Medical care or device operation

Bring travel companion if you need:

• Bathroom assistance
• Help with transfers
• Medical device operation
• Medication management

Insulin Pumps and Diabetes Devices

Insulin Pump Travel on Spirit

No advance notification required for:

• Insulin pumps
• Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs)
• Blood glucose meters
• Insulin pens and vials

Packing Insulin on Spirit Flights:

Carry-On (Recommended):

• Insulin supplies in personal item or carry-on
• Insulated medical bag for temperature control
• Ice packs allowed (frozen solid at screening)
• Prescription labels on all medication

Checked Baggage (Not Recommended):

• Cargo hold temperatures can damage insulin
• Risk of lost luggage = lost medication
• Only check insulin if absolutely necessary

TSA Screening with Insulin Devices

Insulin Pump Screening:

1. Inform TSA officer: "I have an insulin pump that cannot go through X-ray or body scanner."
2. Request pat-down: Alternative to body scanner
3. Visual inspection: TSA may swab pump for explosives residue
4. Pump stays on body: Do not remove insulin pump

CGM Screening:

• Most CGMs safe for X-ray and body scanners
• Check manufacturer guidance (Dexcom, Freestyle Libre, etc.)
• Request pat-down if manufacturer recommends

Insulin and Supplies Screening:

• Declare insulin and supplies at checkpoint
• TSA may open cooling bags for inspection
• Medication exempt from liquid limits (>3.4 oz allowed)
• Syringes allowed with insulin prescription

Spirit Airlines Diabetes Support

Onboard Meal Considerations:

Spirit does NOT provide complimentary meals, but:

• Snacks and drinks available for purchase
• Bring own diabetic-friendly snacks (TSA allowed)
• Pre-order snack boxes if preferred

Recommended Diabetic Snacks:

• Protein bars
• Nuts and seeds
• Cheese and crackers
• Glucose tablets (for low blood sugar)
• Sugar-free gum

Flight Attendant Assistance:

• Can provide water (complimentary)
• Cannot administer medication
• Cannot operate insulin pump
• Will assist in medical emergency (call for help)

Spirit Airlines Booking Tips for Medical Travelers

Seat Selection Strategy

Best Seats for Medical Device Travelers:

Window Seat (Standard):

• Store POC/CPAP under seat without blocking aisle
• Privacy for medical device use
• Wall support for mobility-limited travelers

Avoid Exit Rows:

• FAA prohibits passengers with medical devices from exit row seats
• Spirit will reseat you if booked in exit row

Avoid "Big Front Seat" if Unnecessary:

• Spirit charges premium for front seats
• Standard seat usually sufficient for medical devices
• Save money unless extra space truly needed

Preferred Rows:

• Rows 2-5: Close to boarding door, easier assistance
• Bulkhead: Extra legroom (but under-seat storage limited)
• Aisle access: Easier bathroom trips for diabetics, CPAP users

Managing Spirit's Unbundled Pricing

What's Included (Base Fare):

• Personal item (fits under seat)
• CPAP/medical device carry-on exemption

Additional Fees (Unless Medical Exemption):

• Standard carry-on bag: $41-$65
• Checked bag: $36-$65
• Seat selection: $1-$50
• Priority boarding: $5-$25

Medical Device Fee Exemptions:

No charge for:

• CPAP, POC, or other medical devices as carry-on
• Wheelchair or mobility device check
• Assistive devices (canes, walkers, crutches)

Still charged for:

• Regular carry-on bags (non-medical)
• Checked luggage (non-medical)
• Seat selection fees
• Snacks and drinks

Saving Money Strategy:

1. Use personal item (18"x14"x8") effectively
2. CPAP counts as separate medical carry-on (free)
3. Check bags online ($36) vs. airport ($50)
4. Select seats during check-in (often free)
5. Bring own snacks (diabetes-friendly, within TSA rules)

Special Services and Assistance

Spirit Airlines Special Services Desk

Contact Information:

Phone: 1-855-728-3555

Hours: 7 days/week, 7am-7pm Eastern Time

When to Call:

• 48-72 hours before flight (wheelchair, POC notification)
• Questions about medical device policies
• Advance seat assignments for medical needs
• Complaints or issues with previous travel

At-Airport Assistance

Special Services Desk Locations:

Available at all Spirit Airlines airports:

• Fort Lauderdale (FLL) - Hub
• Las Vegas (LAS)
• Orlando (MCO)
• Detroit (DTW)
• Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW)
• All other Spirit destinations

Services Provided:

• Wheelchair assistance coordination
• Medical device inspection/approval
• Boarding assistance arrangement
• Problem resolution (gate agent disputes)

Arrive Early:

• With wheelchair: 90+ minutes before departure
• With POC/CPAP: 60+ minutes before departure
• International flights: Add 30 minutes

Passenger Rights and Protections

Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA)

Your Rights Under ACAA:

1. Non-discrimination: Spirit cannot deny boarding solely due to disability or medical device
2. Reasonable accommodation: Spirit must accommodate medical devices within safety regulations
3. Free assistance: Wheelchair and boarding assistance at no charge
4. Seating accommodation: If specific seat needed for medical device, Spirit must provide (if available)
5. Damage liability: Spirit liable for damage to wheelchairs and assistive devices

Department of Transportation (DOT) Protections

Medical Device Protections:

• CPAP/BiPAP exempt from carry-on fees (mandated 2025)
• POCs must be allowed (if FAA-approved)
• Batteries within FAA limits cannot be denied
• Wheelchairs must be accommodated

If Spirit Violates Your Rights:

1. Request supervisor at airport immediately
2. Document incident: Names, flight number, date/time, description
3. File DOT complaint: airconsumer.dot.gov/escomplaint
4. Contact disability rights organization: disabilityrightsnetwork.org
5. Consider legal action: If severe discrimination

Common Spirit Airlines Medical Device Scenarios

Scenario 1: Gate Agent Challenges CPAP Exemption

Situation: Spirit gate agent says CPAP counts as carry-on bag and demands $65 fee.

Response:

1. Calmly state: "CPAP machines are exempt from carry-on fees per DOT regulations and Spirit Airlines policy."
2. Show medical prescription or necessity letter
3. Reference confirmation number from Special Services call
4. Request supervisor
5. If denied, pay fee under protest and file DOT complaint immediately after flight

Scenario 2: POC Battery Quantity Questioned

Situation: You're carrying 8 POC batteries (all under 100 Wh), and agent says "too many."

Response:

1. Explain: "FAA allows unlimited batteries under 100 Wh for medical devices."
2. Show battery labels (watt-hour ratings clearly visible)
3. Show medical necessity letter explaining multi-day trip
4. Offer FAA battery regulation printout (from FAA.gov)
5. Request Spirit supervisor if agent persists

Scenario 3: Wheelchair Battery Concerns

Situation: Spirit staff unsure about your wheelchair's 250 Wh lithium battery.

Response:

1. Provide battery specifications: "This is a 250 Wh lithium battery, which is within the new FAA 160-300 Wh allowance for wheelchairs (2025 regulation)."
2. Show wheelchair manufacturer documentation
3. Reference advance notification: "I called Spirit Special Services 72 hours ago and received confirmation number [provide number]."
4. Battery terminals already protected (show protective covering)
5. Request Special Services representative if gate staff uncertain

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does Spirit Airlines charge for medical device carry-ons? A: No. CPAP machines, POCs, and other medical devices do not count toward Spirit's carry-on bag limit and are transported free of charge. Your personal item and standard carry-on bag rules still apply separately.

Q: Can I use my POC during takeoff and landing on Spirit? A: Yes. FAA regulations allow POC use during all phases of flight, including takeoff and landing, as long as the device is FAA-approved.

Q: How early should I notify Spirit about my wheelchair? A: Spirit requires 48 hours advance notice for wheelchairs, but 72 hours is recommended, especially for power wheelchairs with lithium batteries.

Q: Will Spirit provide oxygen if my POC fails during flight? A: No. Spirit Airlines does not carry supplemental oxygen. You must bring sufficient POC batteries for the entire flight plus delays. Bring at least 150% of expected battery needs.

Q: Can I check my CPAP machine in luggage to save carry-on space? A: You can, but it's not recommended. CPAP machines are fragile and valuable. Since they're exempt from carry-on limits, there's no advantage to checking them. Keep your CPAP in the cabin with you.

Q: What if Spirit damages my wheelchair? A: Inspect your wheelchair immediately upon return at the gate. Report any damage to Spirit Baggage Service before leaving the airport. Spirit is legally liable for wheelchair damage and must provide repair, replacement, or loaner wheelchair while yours is repaired.

Q: Does Spirit provide distilled water for CPAP users? A: No. Spirit does not stock distilled water. Bring your own or purchase after security. Fill your CPAP water chamber after clearing TSA screening.

Q: Can I bring my service dog if I use a medical device? A: Yes. Spirit accommodates service dogs at no charge. Service dogs are separate from medical device policies and follow Spirit's Emotional Support/Service Animal policy. Advanced notification is required.

Conclusion: Flying Spirit Airlines with Medical Devices

Spirit Airlines' ultra-low-cost model doesn't compromise medical device accommodation. Key takeaways:

✅ POCs allowed - All FAA-approved devices permitted with 48-hour notice ✅ CPAP exemption - Doesn't count toward carry-on limit, no extra fees ✅ Wheelchair support - Full accommodation with advance coordination ✅ Standard battery rules - FAA regulations apply (unlimited <100 Wh) ✅ No medical device fees - Assistive devices transported free ✅ ACAA protections - Federal law ensures equal access

With proper planning and advance notification, Spirit Airlines can be an affordable option for medical device travelers. The key is understanding Spirit's specific procedures, notifying Special Services ahead of time, and knowing your rights if challenges arise.

Budget-friendly air travel with medical devices is possible - fly Spirit safely and confidently!

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