Complete guide to flying with medical devices on United Airlines. Learn POC approval, CPAP policies, wheelchair procedures, documentation requirements, and passenger rights for medical equipment.

United Airlines Medical Device Policy: Complete Guide 2025

Airline Policy Disclaimer: This guide is compiled from United Airlines' official policies and is updated regularly. However, airline policies may change without notice. Always verify current requirements directly with United Airlines before traveling. Last verified: January 2025.

Why United's Medical Device Policy Matters

You've booked your United Airlines flight. Your portable oxygen concentrator is FAA-approved. Your CPAP is packed. Your medical documentation is ready. But have you verified that your specific device meets United's requirements? Have you completed the advance notification process? Do you know your rights if issues arise at the gate?

United Airlines serves millions of passengers with medical needs annually, operating one of the largest medical device accommodation programs among U.S. carriers. While United follows FAA regulations as a baseline, the airline maintains specific policies, notification procedures, and operational requirements that go beyond federal minimums. Understanding these airline-specific rules is critical—many travelers who are fully compliant with FAA regulations still face complications at United gates because they haven't followed the airline's internal processes.

This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to fly successfully with medical devices on United Airlines, from initial booking through arrival at your destination.

What You'll Learn:

United's POC approval process and device requirements
CPAP and respiratory equipment policies
Wheelchair and mobility device procedures
Battery limits and advance notification requirements
Documentation checklist for United flights
Passenger rights and disability accommodations
What to do when issues arise at the airport

Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POCs) on United Airlines

United's POC Approval Requirements

United Airlines allows FAA-approved portable oxygen concentrators on all flights, but requires specific procedures and advance notification.

Device Approval: Your POC must meet ALL of the following criteria:

FAA Approval: Device must be on the FAA's approved POC list
Manufacturer Label: Must display manufacturer's label indicating FAA approval
Operational Condition: Device must be in good working order with no damage
Battery Compliance: All batteries must meet United's lithium battery limits

United's Approved POC Models (2025):

AirSep FreeStyle, FreeStyle 5, Focus
Delphi RS-00400, RS-00500
DeVilbiss iGo
Inogen One, One G2, One G3, One G4, One G5
Invacare XPO2, Solo 2
International Biophysics LifeChoice, LifeChoice Activox
Precision Medical EasyPulse PM4150
Respironics EverGo, SimplyGo, SimplyGo Mini
SeQual Eclipse, eQuinox, Oxywell (model 4000)
Vbox Trooper

Important: This list may change. Always verify your specific model with United's Special Assistance Desk before booking.

Advance Notification Requirements

When to Notify United:

Minimum: 48 hours before scheduled departure
Recommended: At time of booking or as early as possible
International Flights: 72 hours minimum (some destinations require more)

How to Notify United:

Option 1: Online (Recommended)

Log into your United reservation at united.com
Navigate to "Manage Reservation"
Select "Special Assistance"
Choose "Portable Oxygen Concentrator"
Enter device details and battery information
Save confirmation number

Option 2: Phone

Call United's Accessibility Desk: 1-800-228-2744 (U.S.)
International: Contact your local United reservations office
Have ready: Confirmation number, device model, battery watt-hour ratings, number of spare batteries

Option 3: Airport Counter

Notify at check-in (NOT recommended as backup only)
May cause delays or denied boarding if not pre-approved

Battery Requirements for POCs

Battery Quantity Limits:

Batteries Under 100 Wh:

Installed battery: 1 (in device)
Spare batteries: Up to 2 typically allowed
Total: Device + 2 spares (3 batteries maximum without special approval)

Batteries 100-160 Wh:

Installed battery: 1 (in device)
Spare batteries: Maximum 2 with advance approval
MUST notify United at least 48 hours in advance
Approval not guaranteed; United may restrict based on aircraft type or flight duration

Flight Duration Rule: United requires sufficient battery power for 150% of maximum flight duration, including:

Scheduled flight time
Potential delays
Taxi time
Connections (if applicable)

Example Calculation:

Flight time: 4 hours
Required coverage: 6 hours (4 × 1.5)
If your POC uses 72 Wh battery with 3-hour runtime:
- Need minimum 2 batteries (6 hours coverage)
- Recommendation: Bring 3 batteries (device + 2 spares) for safety margin

POC Usage During Flight

When POC Use is Permitted:

During taxi (with cabin crew notification)
During takeoff and landing (unlike most electronics)
Throughout flight at cruising altitude
During turbulence (device must be secured)

POC Use Restrictions:

Must not block aisle or emergency exit
Must be stowed under seat in front of you or secured on lap
Cannot be placed in overhead bin while operating
Must be turned off during refueling (international flights only)

Cabin Crew Notification:

Inform flight attendants upon boarding that you're traveling with POC
Show them device location and confirm it's FAA-approved
Demonstrate that you know how to operate and troubleshoot device
Keep user manual accessible during flight

Required Documentation for POC Travel

Essential Documents (Carry with You):

Physician's Statement (Required by United)
- On doctor's letterhead
- Must state medical necessity for oxygen during flight
- Should include: Your name, flight dates, POC prescription
- Must be dated within 12 months of travel
- Signature and contact information of prescribing physician
POC User Manual
- Manufacturer's manual or quick-start guide
- Proof of FAA approval (often in manual)
- Battery specifications page
Battery Specification Sheets
- Watt-hour ratings clearly marked
- For each battery type you're carrying
- Can be manufacturer printout or product label photo
United Confirmation
- Email or reservation note confirming POC approval
- Reference number from Special Assistance Desk
- Gate contact information (if provided)

Helpful Additional Documents:

Prescription for oxygen (separate from physician's statement)
Insurance card (in case of medical emergency)
Device purchase receipt (proves authenticity)
Previous successful travel documentation with United

Common POC Issues and Solutions

Issue 1: Gate Agent Questions POC Approval Despite Pre-Notification

Solution: Show United confirmation email/number from Special Assistance Desk. Request gate agent contact United's Accessibility Desk for verification. Remain calm and polite. If unresolved, ask to speak with Customer Service Manager (CSM).

Issue 2: Flight Attendant Asks to Stow POC in Overhead Bin

Resolution: Politely explain that FAA and United policy allow POC use during all phases of flight. POC must remain accessible to you. Offer to demonstrate device safety features. Reference United's own policy documentation if needed.

Issue 3: Battery Quantity Questioned at Security or Gate

Resolution: Show battery watt-hour calculations and United's advance approval (for 100-160 Wh batteries). Explain 150% flight duration requirement. Provide physician's statement demonstrating medical necessity for flight duration.

Issue 4: Aircraft Change Results in POC Denial

Resolution: United must accommodate you on another flight if POC cannot be accommodated due to aircraft change. Request immediate rebooking. United cannot deny you travel due to medical device needs if you followed notification procedures. Escalate to CSM if needed.

CPAP and BiPAP Machines on United Airlines

United's CPAP Policy Overview

CPAP and BiPAP machines are considered medically necessary devices on United Airlines and receive special accommodations.

Key Benefits:

Does NOT count toward carry-on baggage allowance
Can be carried in addition to standard carry-on and personal item
No advance notification required (but recommended)
Can be used on some long-haul flights with seat power

Carry-On vs. Checked Baggage

Recommended: Carry-On

Protects device from damage
Ensures availability during layovers
Allows use on aircraft if traveling overnight
Prevents loss if checked bag is delayed

If Checking CPAP:

Pack in hard-shell protective case
Remove external batteries (must be in carry-on)
Mark clearly as "Medical Device - Fragile"
Take photos of device before checking (for insurance claims if damaged)

CPAP Battery Requirements

Built-In Batteries:

Travel CPAPs with integrated batteries treated as part of device
No additional approval needed if battery under 100 Wh
Can remain in device in either carry-on or checked bag

External Battery Packs:

Under 100 Wh:

Up to 2 battery packs typically allowed
Must be in carry-on baggage
No advance notification required
Should be in original packaging or protected against short circuit

100-160 Wh:

Maximum 2 battery packs
MUST notify United 48 hours in advance
Must be in carry-on baggage
Require individual protection (plastic cases, terminal covers)

Using CPAP During Flight

Aircraft with Seat Power (Select United Aircraft):

Boeing 767-300ER (Polaris business class)
Boeing 777-200 and 777-300ER (most seats)
Boeing 787 Dreamliner (all seats)
Some 737 MAX 8 and 737-800 (premium cabins)

Requirements for In-Flight CPAP Use:

Advance Request: Notify United at booking or call Accessibility Desk
Power Adapter: Bring appropriate adapter for United's power system (110V AC or USB-C depending on aircraft)
Flight Attendant Approval: Inform crew upon boarding
Distilled Water: Limited to TSA-compliant quantities unless medically necessary documentation provided
Mask Seal: Must not interfere with seatbelt or oxygen mask deployment

Power Availability:

Not available during taxi, takeoff, and landing
May be restricted during turbulence
Not available on all aircraft types (verify when booking)
Business and first class seats more likely to have compatible power

CPAP Documentation

While United doesn't require documentation for CPAP travel, carrying these can help:

Recommended Documents:

Prescription or physician's letter (especially for international travel)
Device user manual (for troubleshooting)
Proof of purchase (shows device authenticity)
Battery specifications (if carrying external batteries)

For International Travel:

Some countries require medical device declaration
Customs may request proof of medical necessity
Power voltage compatibility information (110V vs 220V)

Wheelchairs and Mobility Devices on United Airlines

United's Wheelchair Accommodation Policy

United Airlines is required by law to accommodate wheelchairs and mobility devices, but specific procedures must be followed.

Types of Wheelchairs:

Manual Wheelchairs: Generally no restrictions
Power Wheelchairs (Battery-Powered): Require advance notification and battery documentation
Mobility Scooters: Same as power wheelchairs
Sport/Recreation Wheelchairs: May have size restrictions

Advance Notification for Power Wheelchairs

When to Notify:

Minimum: 48 hours before departure
Recommended: 7-10 days for international travel
Complex Devices: 10-14 days (custom wheelchairs, specialized equipment)

Required Information:

Wheelchair weight (including batteries)
Dimensions (length, width, height when folded if applicable)
Battery type (lithium-ion, sealed lead-acid, wet-cell)
Battery watt-hour rating (for lithium batteries)
Whether battery can be removed
Special handling instructions

How to Notify:

Call United Accessibility Desk: 1-800-228-2744
Complete online form at united.com/accessibility
Email documentation to United's Special Assistance team

Battery Requirements for Power Wheelchairs

Lithium-Ion Batteries:

Under 160 Wh:

Battery may remain installed in wheelchair
Wheelchair can be gate-checked
Terminals should be protected if accessible
United staff will tag device as containing lithium battery

160-300 Wh:

Battery must be disconnected (but may remain in wheelchair)
Terminals must be fully insulated
United will require hazmat declaration form (provided at airport)
Some aircraft may not accommodate (rare on mainline United flights)
Advance coordination essential

Over 300 Wh:

Prohibited on passenger aircraft
United cannot transport as checked baggage
Options: Use airline-provided wheelchair, ship separately via cargo, use wheelchair with compliant battery

Sealed Lead-Acid and Gel-Cell Batteries:

Generally easier to accommodate than lithium
Must be non-spillable type
Can usually remain installed if properly secured
United staff will verify battery type and sealing

Wheelchair Handling Procedures

At Check-In:

Notify agent you're checking power wheelchair
Provide battery information and watt-hour rating
Complete hazmat declaration if required (United provides form)
Receive gate check tag
United will provide aisle chair for boarding

Battery Disconnection (If Required):

United staff or passenger can disconnect (passenger's choice)
Terminals must be insulated with caps or heavy-duty tape
Battery remains in wheelchair frame unless removal required
Take photo of battery and connections before disconnection (for reassembly)

At Gate:

Wheelchair remains with you until boarding
United staff will transport wheelchair to cargo hold
Wheelchair should be returned to jet bridge upon arrival (gate check service)
If not at gate, available at baggage claim

Onboard:

United provides aisle chair for boarding and deplaning
Personal wheelchair stored in cargo hold
Some aircraft have onboard wheelchair for lavatory access (not suitable for all passengers)

Wheelchair Damage and Liability

If Your Wheelchair is Damaged:

Inspect Immediately: Check wheelchair before leaving airport
Report at Airport: File damage report with United baggage service before leaving
Document: Take photos of all damage
Get Temporary Mobility: United must provide loaner wheelchair if yours is unusable
Repair/Replacement: United liable for repair or replacement cost

United's Wheelchair Liability:

United liable for damage to wheelchairs unlike standard baggage limits
Must repair or replace damaged equipment
Must provide temporary replacement while original is repaired
No monetary cap on liability for wheelchair damage (unlike $3,500 baggage limit)

Battery-Related Issues:

If battery damaged, United must replace with equivalent
If wheelchair unusable due to battery issue, United must accommodate
Keep battery purchase receipts for value documentation

Other Medical Devices and Equipment

Nebulizers and Respiratory Equipment

Portable Nebulizers:

Allowed in carry-on baggage
Battery-powered nebulizers subject to battery limits
Prescription or physician letter recommended but not required by United
Liquid medications subject to TSA rules (3.4 oz unless medical exemption)

Peak Flow Meters, Spacers, Inhalers:

No restrictions
Carry in original prescription packaging when possible
Sufficient quantity for trip duration plus backup

Insulin Pumps and Diabetes Equipment

Insulin Pumps:

No United-specific restrictions
Can remain on body during flight
Carry backup supplies (extra insulin, syringes, batteries)
Medical alert notification to TSA recommended

Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs):

No restrictions
May request TSA manual screening (instead of body scanner)
Carry sensor and transmitter backup supplies

Insulin and Supplies:

Unlimited quantity in carry-on (despite TSA liquid rules)
Should be in original pharmacy packaging or with prescription label
Keep in insulated case (not checked baggage where temperatures unsafe)
Bring sharps container for disposal

Prosthetics and Assistive Devices

Prosthetic Limbs:

No advance notification required
May remain on body during flight
TSA may request additional screening
Wear comfortable clothing for easy inspection if needed

Canes, Walkers, Crutches:

Allowed in cabin if space permits
May be gate-checked on smaller aircraft
United provides aisle chair if you cannot walk to seat

Hearing Aids and Cochlear Implants:

No restrictions
Carry extra batteries in carry-on
Consider bringing manual or documentation for TSA/crew

United's Accessibility Services

Types of Assistance Available

Pre-Boarding:

Priority boarding for passengers with disabilities
Extra time to stow medical equipment and get seated
Assistance transferring from wheelchair to seat

Onboard Assistance:

Help stowing carry-on items (but not lifting heavy bags)
Aisle chair for passengers who cannot walk to seat
Onboard wheelchair for lavatory access (limited aircraft)
Assistance with meals and opening packages

Ground Service:

Wheelchair service from check-in to gate
Assistance through security screening
Transportation between gates during connections
Wheelchair service from gate to baggage claim

Requesting Assistance

At Booking:

Select "Special Assistance" when booking online
Choose type of assistance needed
Confirm assistance appears on reservation

After Booking:

Call United: 1-800-228-2744
Add to reservation online at united.com
Request at check-in (not recommended—may not be available)

Day of Travel:

Arrive 2+ hours early for domestic flights
Arrive 3+ hours early for international flights
Notify gate agent immediately if pre-arranged assistance not available
Speak with Customer Service Manager if assistance is denied

Passenger Rights and Protections

Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA)

The Air Carrier Access Act prohibits discrimination against passengers with disabilities on U.S. airlines including United.

Your Rights:

No Denial Based on Disability: United cannot deny you boarding solely because you have a disability or use a medical device
Reasonable Accommodation: United must make reasonable efforts to accommodate your medical device needs
No Extra Charges: United cannot charge for accommodating medical devices (wheelchairs, POCs, etc.)
Priority Seating: If you need specific seat for medical device, United must try to accommodate
Accessible Communication: United must communicate policies in accessible formats

When United Can Require Documentation

United CAN Require:

Physician's statement for POC travel
Advance notification for certain devices (POCs, power wheelchairs)
Battery specifications for lithium batteries
Proof of FAA approval for POCs

United CANNOT Require:

Medical certificate stating fitness to fly (except in rare safety situations)
Traveling with companion unless passenger cannot assist in own evacuation AND flight is full
Proof of disability for wheelchair or mobility device request
Payment for medical device accommodation

What to Do if Your Rights Are Violated

Immediate Steps:

Speak with Supervisor: Request Customer Service Manager (CSM) at airport
Document: Note names, employee numbers, times, and details
Get Witnesses: Collect contact info from other passengers if possible
Take Photos: Document situation if appropriate
Request Written Statement: Ask for written explanation if denied boarding or service

After Travel:

File Complaint with United:
- Online: united.com/feedback
- Phone: 1-800-228-2744
- Mail: United Airlines Customer Care, P.O. Box 66100, Chicago, IL 60666
- Include: Flight details, employee names, description of incident, resolution sought
File DOT Complaint:
- Department of Transportation Aviation Consumer Protection Division
- Online: airconsumer.dot.gov/escomplaint/es.cfm
- Phone: 202-366-2220
- Mail: Aviation Consumer Protection Division, C-75, U.S. Department of Transportation, 1200 New Jersey Ave SE, Washington, DC 20590
Document Everything:
- Keep all receipts for expenses caused by issue
- Medical expenses if device malfunction caused health issue
- Alternative transportation costs
- Hotel and meal costs if stranded

International Travel Considerations

Country-Specific Requirements

United's policy applies on all United-operated flights, but destination countries may have additional requirements.

European Union:

EU Regulation 1107/2006 provides similar protections to ACAA
Some EU countries require medical device registration for extended stays
United must coordinate with destination airport for wheelchair assistance

Asia-Pacific:

Japan, Australia, Singapore: Generally aligned with FAA/IATA standards
China: Stricter battery limits; advance coordination essential
India: May require medical certificate for POC travel

Latin America:

Mexico, Brazil, Chile: Follow IATA standards
Some countries require translated medical documentation
Battery regulations may be more restrictive

Documentation for International Flights

Additional Documents Recommended:

Passport-style photos of all equipment (for customs)
Translated physician letters (for non-English speaking countries)
Power adapter compatibility information
Medical device registration (if required by destination)
Customs declaration forms (for high-value medical equipment)

Connections on Partner Airlines

If your journey includes non-United operated flights (code-share or partner airlines):

Important Considerations:

Partner airline policies may differ from United's
Verify medical device policies with each operating carrier
Battery limits may be more restrictive
Advance notification timeframes may be longer
Wheelchair handling procedures may differ

United's Responsibility:

United must inform you if partner airline has different policies
Should provide contact information for partner airlines
Must accommodate through-ticketed passengers to extent possible

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Do I need to notify United if I'm traveling with a CPAP?

A: While not required, notification is recommended. This ensures United staff are aware and can assist if issues arise. CPAP does not count toward carry-on limit. For international flights or if planning to use CPAP onboard, advance notification is highly recommended.

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

A: Yes. POCs are specifically exempted from the electronic device restrictions during takeoff and landing. You may use your FAA-approved POC during all phases of flight on United. Notify flight attendants upon boarding.

Q3: What if my wheelchair battery is 180 Wh?

A: Batteries 160-300 Wh can travel but require battery disconnection and terminal protection. You must notify United at least 48 hours in advance. United will provide a hazmat declaration form at check-in. Battery may remain in wheelchair frame if properly secured and terminals insulated.

Q4: Does United charge for wheelchair assistance?

A: No. United cannot charge for providing wheelchair service or accommodating your personal wheelchair. This includes gate-to-gate wheelchair service, aisle chair, and checking your personal wheelchair at no cost.

Q5: Can I bring more than 2 spare POC batteries if my flight is very long?

A: Possibly. United's standard policy allows 2 spare batteries under 100 Wh. For longer flights, you may request additional batteries by calling the Accessibility Desk. Provide flight details and medical justification. Approval depends on total watt-hours and aircraft type but United will try to accommodate medical necessity.

Q6: What if United changes my aircraft and my power wheelchair no longer fits?

A: United must either accommodate your wheelchair on a different flight or provide an aircraft that can accommodate it. You cannot be denied travel due to equipment changes if you provided proper advance notice. United must offer comparable routing within reasonable timeframe.

Q7: Can I charge my CPAP battery using the in-seat power outlet?

A: On aircraft with seat power, yes, but with restrictions. Only during cruise (not takeoff/landing). You must use manufacturer-approved charger. Inform flight crew. Monitor charging at all times. Power availability varies by aircraft and seat type.

Q8: What happens if TSA damages my medical device during screening?

A: TSA, not United, is responsible for damage during security screening. File claim with TSA immediately at the checkpoint. United is only liable for damage during checked baggage handling. Always carry essential medical devices in carry-on to minimize risk.

Q9: Does United require me to sit in a specific seat if I'm using a POC?

A: United may require you to sit in a row with accessible under-seat storage (not exit rows, bulkhead seats may have restrictions). This ensures POC can be properly stowed. Request seat assignment at booking. United should accommodate your needs while meeting safety requirements.

Tips for Smooth United Travel with Medical Devices

Before Booking

Verify Direct Flight Availability: Reduces connection complications
Check Aircraft Type: Larger aircraft = more accommodation options
Review Seat Maps: Choose seats with accessible power if needed
Compare Alternative Routes: Have backup options if first choice unavailable

When Booking

Add Medical Device Info Immediately: Use online special assistance tool
Request Seat Assignment: Get appropriate seat for device needs
Save Confirmation: Screenshot/print all special assistance confirmations
Note Reservation Number: Keep accessible for all communications

48-72 Hours Before Flight

Call to Confirm: Verify special assistance is noted on reservation
Reconfirm Aircraft Type: Ensure no equipment changes affecting accommodations
Print All Documents: Physician letters, battery specs, United confirmations
Charge All Batteries: Fully charge medical device batteries night before travel
Pack Backup Supplies: Extra batteries, chargers, medical supplies

Day of Travel

Arrive Early: 2+ hours domestic, 3+ hours international
Check In Online: Save time at airport
Notify Check-In Agent: Confirm medical device on reservation
Keep Documents Accessible: Don't pack in bottom of bag
Test Device: Verify POC/CPAP functioning before security

At Security

Notify TSA Officer: Proactively declare medical devices and batteries
Request Assistance if Needed: TSA must accommodate special screening needs
Don't Pack Device Away: Keep accessible until after screening
Allow Extra Time: Medical screening may take longer

At Gate

Notify Gate Agent Immediately: Confirm special assistance
Pre-Board if Needed: Take advantage of priority boarding
Verify Wheelchair Handling: Confirm gate check tag for power wheelchairs
Keep Crew Informed: Let flight attendants know about medical devices upon boarding

During Flight

Secure Device Properly: Under seat in front or on lap as directed
Monitor Battery Levels: Ensure sufficient power for flight duration
Keep User Manual Accessible: For troubleshooting if needed
Notify Crew of Issues: Immediately report any device problems

Contact Information

United Airlines Accessibility Desk

Phone:

U.S. and Canada: 1-800-228-2744 (TTY: 711)
International: Contact local United reservations

Hours:

24/7 for urgent assistance
Best times to call: Weekday mornings (8 AM - 12 PM local time)

Online:

Website: united.com/accessibility
Manage Reservation: united.com (add special assistance to existing booking)

Emergency Contacts

During Travel Issues:

Airport Customer Service Manager (CSM) - Available at all United gates
United Customer Care: 1-800-864-8331

After Travel (Complaints/Claims):

Customer Care Email: through united.com/feedback
Mail: United Airlines Customer Care, P.O. Box 66100, Chicago, IL 60666

Government Resources:

DOT Aviation Consumer Protection: 202-366-2220
DOT Disability Hotline: 1-800-778-4838 (TTY: 1-800-455-9880)

Medical Disclaimer: This article provides airline policy information for traveling with medical devices. It is not a substitute for medical advice. Consult your physician before air travel with medical conditions. Follow your device manufacturer's instructions and maintain all prescribed medical treatments.

Policy Disclaimer: While this guide is comprehensive and regularly updated, United Airlines may change policies without notice. Always verify current requirements directly with United Airlines before making travel arrangements. This guide is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice.

This comprehensive guide is part of MedFly Safe's commitment to helping medical device users travel safely. For more information, see our guides on TSA Medical Device Screening, FAA-Approved POCs, and Lithium Battery Limits.