United Airlines Medical Device Policy: Complete 2025 Travel Guide

United Airlines serves over 150 million passengers annually, making it one of the world's largest carriers and a frequent choice for medical device travelers. Understanding United's specific policies, advance notification requirements, and accommodation procedures ensures smooth travel whether you're flying with a portable oxygen concentrator, CPAP, wheelchair, or other medical equipment.

This comprehensive guide covers everything medical device travelers need to know about United Airlines' policies, from advance notifications to in-flight accommodations and special assistance services.

United Airlines Accessibility Commitment

United Airlines operates under the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) and has developed extensive policies specifically supporting medical device travelers.

Key Policy Principles:

• Medical devices don't count toward baggage limits - Your POC, CPAP, or respiratory equipment travels free in addition to standard baggage allowance
• Advance accommodations available - Reserve in-flight power, seating near outlets, and special assistance
• Trained accessibility staff - Dedicated team assists with medical equipment questions and bookings
• No discrimination based on disability - Federal law protects your right to fly with necessary medical devices

United Airlines Accessibility Statement: "We are committed to providing a safe and comfortable travel experience for all customers, including those traveling with medical devices and assistive equipment."

Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POCs) on United

FAA-Approved POCs

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

Verification Requirements:

1. Device must display FAA approval label - Manufacturer's label showing device meets FAA standards
2. Model must appear on FAA-approved list - United references the official FAA POC list
3. Battery capacity must comply with regulations - Typically under 160 watt-hours per battery

Currently Approved POC Brands (verify current model):

• AirSep (FreeStyle, Focus, Lifestyle)
• Inogen (One G2, G3, G4, G5)
• Philips Respironics (SimplyGo, SimplyGo Mini, EverGo)
• Invacare (Solo 2, XPO2)
• Oxlife Independence
• ResMed Mobi
• SeQual (Eclipse 5, eQuinox)
• Precision Medical EasyPulse

Important: United updates its approved POC list based on FAA guidelines. Always verify your specific model with United before travel.

Advance Notification Requirements

United Airlines requires 48-hour advance notification for POC travel.

How to Notify United:

Method 1: Online (Recommended)

1. Log into your United MileagePlus account
2. Navigate to "My Trips"
3. Select your reservation
4. Choose "Special Services"
5. Select "Medical Device - Portable Oxygen Concentrator"
6. Complete POC information form

Method 2: Phone

• Call United Accessibility Desk: 1-800-228-2744 (U.S. and Canada)
• International: Contact local United reservations number
• TTY: 711 or 1-800-323-0170
• Available 24/7

Method 3: Airport (Not Recommended)

• Can notify at airport, but may face delays or denied boarding if aircraft cannot accommodate
• Always prefer advance notification

Information You'll Need:

• Device manufacturer and model number
• Battery quantity and watt-hour ratings
• Approximate device dimensions and weight
• Prescription or physician's letter
• Flight details (confirmation number, date, flight numbers)

POC Documentation Requirements

Required Documents:

1. Physician's Statement (within 12 months of travel date)

   • Must include:
     • Your name and date of birth
     • Statement that you can physically and cognitively use the POC
     • Maximum oxygen flow rate required
     • Physician's name, address, phone, and signature
     • Date of issuance

2. POC User Manual

   • Demonstrates FAA approval
   • Shows device specifications
   • Includes battery information

United's Physician Statement Form: Available at united.com or via Accessibility Desk

Pro Tip: Complete United's standardized physician statement form. It includes all required information and is immediately accepted by gate agents and flight attendants.

POC Battery Requirements

Battery Specifications:

• Spare batteries: Allowed in carry-on baggage only (never checked)
• Quantity: Sufficient for 150% of scheduled flight time including connections and potential delays
• Watt-hours: Maximum 160 Wh per battery; unlimited batteries under 100 Wh
• Terminal protection: Spare battery terminals must be protected from short circuits

Calculating Battery Needs:

Example:

• Flight time: 5 hours
• Connection time: 2 hours
• Total: 7 hours × 150% = 10.5 hours of battery life required

If your POC battery lasts 3 hours:

• Minimum batteries needed: 10.5 ÷ 3 = 4 batteries (round up)

Always pack extra batteries beyond the 150% requirement to account for unexpected delays.

In-Flight POC Use

Operational Rules:

✅ Allowed:

• Use POC during entire flight (including taxi, takeoff, landing)
• Keep POC under seat in front of you or in your lap
• Use FAA-approved batteries throughout flight
• Request seat with power outlet (subject to availability)

❌ Not Allowed:

• Charging POC batteries during flight (on most aircraft)
• Storing POC in overhead bin during taxi, takeoff, or landing
• Blocking aisle or emergency exit with POC
• Using POC if it creates safety hazard

Seating Recommendations:

• Request bulkhead or exit row (if medically able) for extra legroom
• Window seats keep POC out of aisle traffic
• Seats near power outlets (on equipped aircraft) for device charging on ground

During Flight:

• Inform flight attendants you're using a POC
• Demonstrate device operation if requested
• Monitor battery levels and change proactively
• Alert crew immediately if device malfunctions

CPAP and BiPAP Machines on United

CPAP Travel Policy

United Airlines does NOT require advance notification for CPAP/BiPAP machines (unlike POCs).

CPAP Travel Benefits:

• Doesn't count toward carry-on baggage limit
• Can be carried in addition to personal item and standard carry-on
• No advance notification required
• No physician's letter required (though recommended)

CPAP Documentation (Recommended)

While United doesn't require documentation, bringing these items prevents potential issues:

Recommended Documents:

• Prescription or physician's letter confirming medical necessity
• CPAP device manual or specification sheet
• Battery specifications (if applicable)

Gate agents unfamiliar with CPAP policies may challenge your extra carry-on. Documentation immediately resolves confusion.

CPAP Battery Regulations

For battery-powered CPAP machines:

United follows FAA battery regulations:

• Batteries under 100 Wh: No advance notification needed
• Batteries 100-160 Wh: Maximum 2 spare batteries, advance notification required
• Batteries over 160 Wh: Prohibited on United flights

Most CPAP batteries fall under 100 Wh and require no special permission.

Distilled Water and Humidifiers

TSA Liquid Rules Apply:

• Under 3.4 oz (100ml): Can go through security in carry-on
• Over 3.4 oz: Subject to additional screening or confiscation

Best Practices:

1. Empty humidifier chamber before security
2. Fill with distilled water after clearing checkpoint (use airport water fountain or purchase water)
3. Pack larger distilled water bottles in checked baggage
4. Declare medically necessary liquids to TSA (sometimes allowed over 3.4 oz with screening)

United Airlines does not provide distilled water on flights. Plan accordingly for longer flights requiring water replenishment.

Wheelchairs and Mobility Devices

United's Wheelchair Accommodation Policy

United Airlines accommodates various mobility devices including manual wheelchairs, power wheelchairs, electric scooters, and specialized mobility equipment.

Key Policies:

• No charge for transporting wheelchairs - Checked wheelchairs fly free, don't count toward baggage allowance
• Multiple wheelchairs allowed - Can check mobility device and bring manual wheelchair to gate
• Gate check available - Use your wheelchair to aircraft door, United stores it in cargo hold
• Priority boarding - Wheelchair users and companions board early

Battery-Powered Wheelchair Requirements

Battery Type Determines Handling:

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

Characteristics:

• Sealed construction
• Cannot leak if tipped
• Most common in modern power wheelchairs

United's Requirements:

• Battery capacity and watt-hour rating documented
• Terminals protected from short circuits
• Battery securely attached to wheelchair
• Can remain installed during transport

No advance notification required for non-spillable batteries under 300 Wh.

Spillable Batteries (Wet Cell, Flooded Lead Acid)

Characteristics:

• Contain liquid electrolyte
• Can leak if tipped or damaged
• Found in older wheelchair models

United's Requirements:

• 48-hour advance notification required
• Battery must be disconnected and terminals insulated
• United provides battery packaging (or you must provide airline-approved packaging)
• Strict limits on battery size and quantity

Many airlines restrict spillable batteries. Consider upgrading to non-spillable type for easier travel.

Wheelchair Documentation

Provide to United at check-in:

1. Battery information card:

   • Battery type (spillable vs. non-spillable)
   • Voltage and watt-hour rating
   • Number of batteries
   • Manufacturer and model

2. Wheelchair specifications:

   • Dimensions and weight
   • Disassembly instructions (if applicable)
   • Special handling requirements

Pro Tip: Create a laminated "Wheelchair Travel Card" with all specifications and attach to your wheelchair. Include emergency contact information and your cell phone number.

Wheelchair Handling Procedures

At Check-In:

1. Inform agent you're checking wheelchair
2. Provide battery documentation
3. Demonstrate any special disassembly requirements
4. Request tag showing "Wheelchair - Gate Delivery"

At Gate:

• Use wheelchair to aircraft door
• United ground crew transfers wheelchair to cargo hold
• Board aircraft using aisle chair (narrow wheelchair for aircraft aisles)

At Destination:

• Wheelchair delivered to aircraft door upon arrival
• Ground crew assists with reassembly if needed
• Inspect wheelchair for damage before leaving gate area

Damage Protocol:

• Document any damage immediately with photos
• Report to United agent before leaving airport
• File Property Irregularity Report (PIR)
• United's baggage service contacts you regarding repairs/compensation

Insulin Pumps and Diabetes Devices

United's Diabetes Device Policy

United Airlines accommodates insulin pumps, continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), and diabetes management supplies.

Key Policies:

• No advance notification required for insulin pumps or CGMs
• Unlimited diabetes supplies in carry-on baggage (no liquid restrictions for medical necessity)
• Sharps containers allowed in carry-on and checked baggage
• Refrigeration not provided on aircraft (bring cooling packs for insulin)

TSA Screening with Insulin Pumps

Important for United travelers:

Insulin pumps and CGMs should NOT go through X-ray or full-body scanners (manufacturer recommendations vary, but many advise against it).

Proper Screening Procedure:

1. Inform TSA officer before screening about insulin pump/CGM
2. Request pat-down instead of body scanner
3. Offer to show device and explain its purpose
4. TSA may swab device or your hands for explosive residue testing

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

Diabetes Supplies on United Flights

Allowed in Carry-On:

• Insulin vials and pens (unlimited quantity)
• Syringes and needles (with insulin)
• Blood glucose meters and test strips
• Lancets and lancing devices
• Glucagon emergency kits
• Glucose tablets and gels
• Cooling packs for insulin (frozen or gel)

Documentation Recommended:

• Prescription labels on insulin
• Physician's letter for large quantities of supplies
• List of supplies in English (for international travel)

United does not provide refrigeration. Use insulated bags with ice packs (frozen gel packs allowed through TSA).

Nebulizers and Respiratory Equipment

Nebulizer Travel Policy

United Airlines allows nebulizers in carry-on baggage as medical devices.

Policy Specifics:

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

Nebulizer Medications

Liquid Medications:

• Medically necessary liquids exempt from 3.4 oz TSA limit
• Must be declared at security checkpoint
• TSA may conduct additional screening (explosive trace detection)
• Keep medications in original labeled containers

Best Practice:

1. Remove nebulizer and medications from carry-on before TSA checkpoint
2. Declare them as medical devices and medications
3. Have prescription readily available
4. Allow extra time for screening (can take 10-15 minutes)

Medical Equipment Advance Notification

When Advance Notification Is Required

United Airlines REQUIRES 48-hour advance notification for:

✅ Portable oxygen concentrators (POCs) - All models, all flights ✅ Oxygen (airline-provided) - If requesting onboard oxygen (restrictions apply) ✅ Spillable battery wheelchairs - Wet cell batteries ✅ Stretcher accommodations - Medical stretcher travel ✅ Service animals (as of recent policy updates) ✅ Traveling with ventilators - May require special accommodations

NOT Required (but recommended):

• CPAP/BiPAP machines
• Insulin pumps and CGMs
• Nebulizers
• Non-spillable battery wheelchairs
• Manual wheelchairs
• Crutches, canes, walkers

How to Provide Advance Notification

Best Method: United Accessibility Desk

Contact Information:

• Phone: 1-800-228-2744 (U.S. and Canada)
• TTY: 711 or 1-800-323-0170
• Hours: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
• International: Contact United reservations in your country

Online Method:

• Log into united.com
• Access "My Trips"
• Select your reservation
• Choose "Special Services"
• Select appropriate medical device category

Provide This Information:

• Full name and MileagePlus number (if applicable)
• Confirmation number
• Flight details (dates, flight numbers)
• Medical device details (type, model, specifications)
• Battery information (if applicable)
• Documentation (physician's letter, prescriptions)

What Happens After Notification

United's Process:

1. Confirmation - You receive confirmation number for medical accommodation request
2. Review - United reviews your device and flight details
3. Approval/Denial - United confirms accommodation or (rarely) denies if aircraft cannot support
4. Seat Assignment - May adjust seating for safety and convenience
5. Crew Notification - Flight crew informed of medical device on board

Check confirmation 24-48 hours before flight to ensure accommodation was processed.

In-Flight Medical Oxygen (United-Provided)

United Airlines Oxygen Policy

Important Change: United Airlines no longer provides in-flight oxygen on most routes.

Current Policy:

• United does NOT allow personal compressed oxygen cylinders on aircraft
• United does NOT provide portable oxygen tanks for passenger use
• Passengers must use FAA-approved POCs for supplemental oxygen

Very Limited Exceptions:

• Some international routes may have oxygen available (extremely rare)
• Emergency medical oxygen available only for in-flight medical emergencies (not for pre-existing conditions)

If you require supplemental oxygen, you MUST bring an FAA-approved POC. There are no alternatives on United flights.

Special Assistance Services

United Accessibility Coordinator

Every United airport hub has a designated Accessibility Coordinator who assists passengers with disabilities and medical devices.

Services Provided:

• Advance planning and coordination
• On-site assistance at airport
• Coordination with TSA for security screening
• Equipment handling instructions for ground crew
• Flight crew communication
• Problem resolution

How to Access:

• Request when calling Accessibility Desk
• Ask at United ticket counter or gate
• Particularly helpful for first-time medical device travelers

Pre-Boarding for Medical Device Travelers

United offers priority boarding for passengers needing extra time to:

• Stow medical equipment
• Set up POCs or other devices
• Transfer from wheelchair to seat
• Arrange accessibility accommodations

How to Request:

• Mention medical device when checking in
• Inform gate agent before boarding begins
• United typically announces pre-boarding for passengers needing assistance

You may bring one companion for pre-boarding to assist with equipment setup.

Assistance During Connections

For passengers with tight connections:

United can arrange:

• Wheelchair or cart transport between gates
• Escort service for passengers unfamiliar with airport
• Gate agents hold connecting flights (when possible)
• Priority deplaning to reach connections faster

Request connection assistance when booking or at first flight check-in.

International Travel Considerations

Documentation for International Flights

Additional documentation recommended for United international flights:

Essential Documents:

• Prescriptions translated into destination country's language
• Medical device manuals in English and local language (if available)
• Customs declaration forms declaring medical equipment
• Return flight information (some countries require proof of departure)
• Travel insurance with medical device coverage

Country-Specific Requirements:

• Some countries require advance medical device importation approval
• Others restrict specific device types
• Battery regulations may differ from U.S. standards

United's Accessibility Desk can provide country-specific guidance based on your destination.

United Codeshare Flights

United operates codeshare flights with partner airlines (Lufthansa, ANA, Air Canada, etc.).

Important:

• Partner airlines may have different medical device policies
• Verify policies with operating carrier, not just United
• Advance notifications may need to be provided to both United and partner
• Documentation requirements may differ

Check your ticket to identify operating carrier:

• "Operated by United" → United policies apply
• "Operated by [Partner Name]" → Partner's policies apply, verify separately

Traveling with Medical Supplies and Medications

Prescription Medications

United Airlines policies for medications:

• Carry medications in original labeled containers - Prescription labels with your name
• Carry-on baggage preferred - Never check critical medications
• Bring extra supply - 150-200% of expected need for trip duration
• Doctor's letter recommended - Especially for controlled substances or large quantities

International Travel:

• Some countries restrict specific medications (check embassy websites)
• Prescriptions may require translation or notarization
• Controlled substances require special documentation

Refrigerated Medications

United does not provide onboard refrigeration for passenger medications.

Solutions:

• Use insulated medication bags with ice packs
• TSA allows frozen ice packs through security
• Some airports have medical refrigeration services (call ahead)
• Request hotel refrigerator access at destination

Insulin specifically:

• Properly stored insulin remains stable at room temperature for 28-30 days
• Use cooling bags for longer trips or hot climates
• Monitor temperature to avoid freezing (damages insulin)

Medical Supplies in Checked Baggage

If packing backup medical supplies in checked baggage:

✅ Good Idea:

• Extra CPAP supplies (masks, tubing, filters)
• Backup medications (not critical daily doses)
• Extra batteries for devices
• Non-liquid medical supplies
• Duplicate documentation

❌ Bad Idea:

• Critical medications needed during flight or immediately upon arrival
• Spare POC or CPAP (in case checked bag is lost)
• Temperature-sensitive items without protection
• Batteries over 160 Wh (prohibited in checked baggage)

Remember: Checked baggage can be lost, delayed, or exposed to extreme temperatures. Never check items you can't function without for 24-48 hours.

United Airlines MileagePlus and Medical Devices

Earning Miles While Traveling with Medical Devices

Medical device travel doesn't affect MileagePlus earning:

• Earn miles normally on flights where you use medical equipment
• Medical accommodation requests don't incur fees or affect mileage accrual
• Wheelchair transport and assistive devices fly free without impacting benefits

MileagePlus Status Benefits for Medical Travelers

Elite status provides additional benefits for medical device travelers:

Premier Silver/Gold/Platinum/1K Benefits:

• Priority boarding - More time to stow medical equipment
• Complimentary upgrades - Extra space for medical devices in premium cabins
• Premier Access - Faster security screening (separate from TSA PreCheck)
• Dedicated phone lines - Faster access to United Accessibility Desk
• Baggage benefits - Useful for medical supplies

Free checked bags benefit is redundant since medical devices already check free, but helpful for accompanying supplies.

Common United Airlines Medical Device Scenarios

Scenario 1: First-Time POC Traveler

Sarah is flying United from Chicago to Los Angeles with her new Inogen G5 POC for the first time.

Steps:

1. 48 hours before flight: Call United Accessibility Desk (800-228-2744), provide POC details
2. Prepare documentation: Get physician's statement using United's form, verify FAA label on POC
3. Calculate batteries: 4-hour flight + connection + buffer = 6 hours × 1.5 = 9 hours needed; bring 4 batteries (3-hour runtime each)
4. At airport: Arrive 2.5 hours early, inform check-in agent about POC, declare at TSA checkpoint
5. At gate: Show documentation to gate agent, request pre-boarding, demonstrate POC operation if asked
6. During flight: Keep POC under seat, monitor battery levels, inform flight attendants you're using POC

Result: Smooth, stress-free travel with advance preparation.

Scenario 2: Wheelchair User with Connection

Marcus uses a power wheelchair with non-spillable gel batteries, connecting through Denver.

Steps:

1. At booking: Request wheelchair assistance and connection support
2. Documentation: Create wheelchair travel card with battery specs (non-spillable, 280 Wh)
3. Check-in: Provide battery documentation, request gate delivery at both origin and destination
4. First flight: Use wheelchair to aircraft door, gate check with "wheelchair" tag
5. Connection: Wheelchair delivered at Denver gate, United arranges cart transport to connecting gate if needed
6. Second flight: Repeat gate check process
7. Destination: Wheelchair delivered to aircraft door, inspect for damage before leaving gate area

Result: Marcus travels independently with proper accommodations.

Scenario 3: International CPAP Travel

Linda is flying United from San Francisco to Tokyo with her ResMed AirSense 10 CPAP.

Steps:

1. No advance notification required (CPAP doesn't require notification)
2. Documentation: Bring prescription and CPAP specifications (optional but recommended)
3. Packing: Carry CPAP as extra medical device (doesn't count toward limit), empty humidifier
4. At security: Declare CPAP, allow X-ray screening (safe for CPAP)
5. At gate: Board normally, stow CPAP under seat
6. During flight: CPAP stays stowed (don't use in-flight on United)
7. Customs: Declare CPAP on Japanese customs form, show prescription if questioned

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How early should I arrive at the airport when traveling with medical devices on United? A: Arrive 2.5-3 hours before domestic flights, 3-4 hours before international flights. Medical device screening can add 15-30 minutes.

Q: Can I charge my POC or CPAP battery on United flights? A: Most United aircraft do NOT allow charging lithium batteries in-flight due to fire risk. Some aircraft have power outlets at seats, but charging batteries is typically prohibited. Verify with flight crew.

Q: What if my medical device is damaged during the flight? A: Document damage immediately with photos, report to United agent before leaving airport, file Property Irregularity Report (PIR), and follow up with United baggage services for repair/replacement.

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

Q: Can I bring my service animal AND medical device on United? A: Yes. Service animals travel in addition to medical devices. Advance notification required for service animals. Both accommodations can be requested simultaneously.

Q: What if my POC malfunctions during the flight? A: Immediately notify flight attendants. If device cannot be repaired, crew may provide emergency oxygen if available. United cannot guarantee replacement devices during travel.

Q: Are there size/weight limits for medical devices on United? A: Medical devices that fit under seat or in overhead bin have no size/weight limits. Larger devices (wheelchairs, large POCs) must meet cargo hold specifications. Contact Accessibility Desk for oversized equipment.

Q: Can I use my nebulizer on United flights? A: Yes, with flight attendant notification. Nebulizer use must not interfere with other passengers or flight operations.

United Airlines Accessibility Resources

Contact Information:

United Accessibility Desk:

• Phone: 1-800-228-2744 (24/7)
• TTY: 711 or 1-800-323-0170
• International: Contact local United reservations

Online Resources:

• united.com/accessibility - Comprehensive accessibility policies
• Physician statement forms downloadable
• FAA-approved POC list
• Battery regulations and guidelines

At the Airport:

• Request Accessibility Coordinator at ticket counter
• Special Services desk (at major hubs)
• Gate agents can address immediate concerns

Social Media:

• Twitter: @United for customer service
• Facebook: United Airlines

Final Pre-Flight Checklist for United Airlines

2-4 Weeks Before Travel:

• Verify device is United-compatible (POCs must be FAA-approved)
• Complete physician's statement if required (POCs)
• Calculate battery needs and verify compliance
• Call United Accessibility Desk for advance notification (if required)

1 Week Before Travel:

• Confirm United received and processed medical accommodation request
• Prepare documentation (prescriptions, device specs, physician letters)
• Charge all batteries to 100%
• Test device functionality

Day Before Travel:

• Pack medical device in carry-on with documentation
• Protect spare battery terminals
• Print boarding pass and check seat assignment
• Verify flight status

At Airport:

• Arrive 2.5-3 hours early (3-4 hours for international)
• Inform check-in agent about medical device
• Declare device at TSA checkpoint
• Show documentation to gate agent
• Request pre-boarding if needed
• Inform flight crew about device use

Conclusion: United Airlines and Medical Device Travel

United Airlines transports thousands of medical device travelers safely every day. Their policies, while sometimes requiring advance planning, provide comprehensive accommodations for passengers with medical equipment needs.

Keys to success with United:

✅ Advance notification - Required for POCs and certain devices, recommended for all ✅ Complete documentation - Physician statements, prescriptions, battery specifications ✅ Early arrival - Medical device screening takes extra time ✅ Clear communication - Inform United, TSA, and flight crew about your device ✅ Battery compliance - Calculate needs, verify watt-hours, protect terminals ✅ Know your rights - Air Carrier Access Act protects medical device travelers

With proper preparation, United Airlines provides reliable, accessible air travel for passengers with medical devices.

Safe travels on United Airlines!

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Flying with medical devices on other airlines? Check our comprehensive airline policy comparisons and medical device travel guides.