TRAVELERS WITH DISABILITIES

LET US ASSIST YOU

• WHEELCHAIR ASSISTANCE IN UNITED STATES AND CANADA

  As you travel through the United States, Caribbean, and Canada, if you require additional assistance related to wheelchair service, please call 1-800-984-8935 and someone will be available to assist you.

  Available daily from 7:00am-1:00am EST
   

• Accessibility & Assistance
  • Airport Accessibility

    Delta leases ticket and gate counter space form local airport authorities, and we work closely with those airports to ensure that our services are accessible to everyone.

    Flight and Gate Information Accessibility

    At most of our airport locations, monitors display flight information for all our passengers. Similarly, most gate areas have electronic displays that indicate specific flight information. Gate agents provide verbal flight information including boarding announcements and any flight irregularity data for all our passengers, including the visually impaired.

    Telecommunication Device for the Deaf (TDD)

    TDDs are available at most airports and are appropriately marked; our customer service representatives will be happy to help you find them. Keep in mind that some airport facilities are not under our control, and that the availability of this equipment may vary from location to location.

    Security Screening

    Airport security screening is required for all passengers. However, a hand search can be performed for people with disabilities, and private screenings are available upon request.

    Individuals assisting customers with disabilities are allowed past security checkpoints. They are required to check in at the ticket counter to receive a pass that allows them through the security checkpoint without a ticket.

  • Airport Assistance

    Our personnel are available to assist passengers with disabilities in boarding, deplaning and connecting with their flights.

    We provide connecting flight assistance for ambulatory individuals who may need help from one departure gate to another. However, we are not equipped to provide full monitoring while waiting at the gate. Should a passenger's condition require this level of attention, the passenger should make arrangements for a traveling companion. For more information, see Wheelchair Services below.
    

  • Aircraft Accessibility

    Most of our aircraft are subject to federal accessibility requirements for our passengers with disabilities. Depending on aircraft type and age, accessible features of our fleet include movable aisle armrests, wheelchair stowage locations, on-board wheelchairs and, on larger airplanes, wheelchair-accessible lavatories.

    Movable Aisle Armrests

    Depending on the aircraft, we provide movable aisle armrest seats so passengers who use aisle chairs to board the aircraft can more easily transfer into their seats. The number and locations of movable aisle armrest seats may vary by aircraft type.

    If you should find that your seat doesn't have a movable armrest, a gate agent or in-flight personnel will be happy to determine if another seat with a movable armrest is available on that specific aircraft.

    Priority Wheelchair Stowage Location

    We provide a designated location onboard most aircraft for stowage of one personal wheelchair on a first come, first served basis. Passengers wishing to use this wheelchair stowage location must request this service and take advantage of pre-boarding. The chair or scooter must fit in a FAA-approved storage area and must be of the weight and size that will fit in the onboard location.

    Onboard Wheelchair

    All of our aircraft have an onboard wheelchair. These wheelchairs are specially designed to fit the aisle of our aircraft, and may be used by our passengers to move to and from the lavatory. While our flight attendants are trained in the operation of this wheelchair and will assist you with its use, they are not required to lift or carry you.

    Accessible Lavatories

    Many of our larger aircraft have a wheelchair accessible lavatory. This feature is dependent on the size and configuration of the airplane.

  • In-flight Assistance

    Do you have special in-flight needs? Our flight attendants are highly qualified to ensure your in-flight safety and comfort. They can assist you in using the onboard wheelchair and stowing or retrieving carry-on items, identifying food items on your meal tray and opening packages.

    However, flight attendants are not permitted to assist with feeding or personal hygiene and lavatory functions. They cannot lift or carry you, and they cannot provide medical services such as giving injections. If your medical condition requires others to provide this type of care, you should travel with a ticketed companion who can see to these needs during the flight.

  • TTY/Telecommunication Device for the Deaf (TDD)

    TTY are available at most airports and are appropriately marked; our customer service representatives will be happy to help you find them. Keep in mind that some airport facilities are not under our control, and that the availability of this equipment may vary from location to location.

    TTY are also available in Delta's Reservations Department by calling 800-831-4488, 24 hours a day, 7 days per week. Our agents are also available to take voice relay calls.

  • Accompanying Safety Assistant Required for Certain Passengers

    Delta may require that a safety assistant accompany a passenger with a disability as a condition of providing transportation if Delta determines that such an assistant is essential for safety in the following circumstances:

    1. When the passenger, because of a mental disability so severe, is unable to comprehend or respond to safety related instructions.
    2. When the passenger has both a severe hearing and vision impairment and is unable to establish a means of communication with Delta personnel sufficient to receive the safety briefing.
    3. When the passenger has a mobility impairment so severe that the passenger is unable to physically assist in his/her own evacuation during an emergency.
• Reservations Requirements

  Reservations Requirements

  The sooner you make your reservations, the more time we have to prepare for your flight and get ready to meet all of your special needs. Most special services require at least one hour advance check in on the day of departure. Keep in mind that security screening and pre-boarding processes are likely to require more than an hour advance check in.

  We make every effort to accommodate your travel needs while also taking into consideration the health and safety of other passengers. Please review all the information in Special Travel Needs section or contact Delta Reservations with questions.

  To accommodate special requests, we need 48 hours advance notice and at least one hour advance check in on the day of departure if you:      

  • Need to use an approved Portable Oxygen Concentrator during the flight.
  • Require the packaging of a wheelchair battery for shipment as checked luggage.
  • Are traveling with a group of 10 or more people with disabilities.

  Although we don't require information concerning the extent of your disability, the more facts you can share with us about your travel needs, the better we are able to assist you. Our reservations agents will be happy to discuss your specific requirements when you call. Should you require transfer assistance at a connecting point, let us know so we can arrange for a wheelchair to be available when you arrive.

  Medical Certificates

  Under certain conditions, you may need to present a medical certificate from a doctor. When you purchase your ticket, tell your reservations agent if you have one of the following conditions:     

  • You need medical oxygen.
  • You have a communicable disease or infection.
  • You have a medical condition where there is reasonable doubt that you cannot complete the flight safely without requiring extraordinary medical assistance during the flight.

  If you do have one of these conditions, obtain a medical certificate dated within 10 days of the flight from a certified medical doctor as follows:      

  • If you need medical oxygen , the medical certificate must state your need for oxygen and the rate of flow per minute required. There is a charge for onboard medical oxygen services.
  • If you have a communicable disease or infection, the medical certificate must state any conditions or precautions we must take to prevent transmission of the disease or infections. The certificate must also state that the disease or infection is not communicable to other people on the flight.
• Special Concerns
  • Disability Seating

    We accommodate any request for seating that helps you manage your disability. It is our responsibility to provide you with any available seat, which you are qualified to use in the cabin of service purchased, in advance. Additional accommodation may be made for:      

    • Passengers who use an aisle chair to get on the aircraft — and can't readily transfer over a fixed aisle armrest — can be provided with a seat that has a moveable aisle armrest on some aircraft.
    • Passengers traveling with an attendant helping them during the flight will be provided side-by-side seating
    • Passengers traveling with a service or support animal will be accommodated with any available seat, but will be provided a bulkhead seat by request
    • Passengers with a fused or immobilize leg will be provided with any available seat for which they qualify, on the side of the aircraft that appropriately accommodates their disability, or a bulkhead seat, by request
  • Medicine

    For optimal safety and health, always carry your medication with you in your carry-on luggage, rather than in checked luggage. Airplanes do not have refrigerators on board, so plan for methods to keep medications cool, if required.

    If you use needles or syringes to take medication, you must have appropriate medical records with you to explain your medical condition and the need for the medical procedure to security or foreign authorities. Please alert the cabin crew if you have used any needles during flight so they may provide you with a disposal container. You may not hang intravenous devices from the aircraft overhead; they may interfere with the emergency oxygen mask system.

  • Onboard Medical Oxygen

    Delta no longer provides compressed medical oxygen. However, Delta does allow passengers to use approved Portable Oxygen Concentrators with advance notification. Personal oxygen systems containing liquid oxygen are not accepted on board any Delta or Delta Connection flights.
    
    Your own FAA approved portable oxygen concentrator — or a rented, approved POC — is allowed in the aircraft cabin. To rent a POC, contact Delta's oxygen provider OxygenToGo®opens in a new window at 866-692-0040.

    The OxygenToGo personnel will guide you through all steps necessary to rent equipment that may be used for your entire air and land trip, so you will not need any additional equipment. You may also rent equipment only for your onboard needs.

    You cannot be seated in an exit row or bulkhead if you intend to you use a POC. Your POC does not count toward your carry-on baggage limit, but must meet the following conditions to be allowed on board:    

    • The battery should be removed and packaged separately if not in use
    • It should have a recessed battery terminal, and the packaged battery terminals should not contact any metal objects.

    If you have your own equipment, you may use that equipment by completing the steps below:     

    • Complete your travel plans and purchase your ticket.
    • Verify that you or your FAA approved portable oxygen concentrator supplier will have the FAA required 150% of battery time for your cumulative flight times. (Note: If you carry the POC on board but do not intend to use it while in flight you are still required to follow the FAA battery requirements. See Portable Oxygen Concentrator (POC) FAA Battery Requirements below.)
    • At least 48 hours prior to travel, you must have complete the POC Battery Approval Request form and fax/email it to OxygenToGo at the contact information listed on the statement. Failure to submit the POC Battery Approval Request at least 48 hours prior to travel may result in delays or refusal to board.
    • You will receive a telephone confirmation from OxygenToGo when they have received the completed POC Battery Approval Request form. Contact OxygenToGo if you do not receive a confirmation call within 24 hours of submission.
    • You must bring the completed POC Battery Approval Request form to the airport to confirm you are traveling with the required number of batteries to last the duration of your flight. Carry the Statement with you, rather than in checked baggage.

    Accepted POCs

    The following portable oxygen concentrators are accepted on Delta, Delta Connection and the Delta Shuttle®. If your Delta ticketed flight is operated by another airline, contact them directly for their policy regarding medical oxygen or inquire with OxygenToGoopens in a new window.     

    • AirSep FreeStyle 3
      
    • AirSep Focus
    • AirSep Freestyle 5
    • Delphi RS-00400 (EVO Central Air)
    • DeVilbiss Healthcare iGo
    • Fishern Paykel - Icon Premo
    • Freedom - BPS-FD.1
    • GCE Zen - O
    • GCE Zen-O Lite
    • Inogen One
    • Inogen One G2
    • Inogen One G3
    • Inogen On G4
    • Inova Labs LifeChoice Activox
    • Inova Labs Lifechoice Activox Pro
    • Inova Labs Lifechoice Sport
    • Invacare SOLO 2
    • International Biophysics LifeChoice/ lnova Labs LifeChoice
    • Invacare XPO2
    • Oxlife Independence Oxygen Concentrator
    • Oxus RS-00400
    • Oxywell 4000
    • Precision Medical EasyPulse
    • Precision Medical Easy Pulse 3
    • Precision Medical Easy Pulse 5
    • Precision Medical Easy Pulse TOC
      
    • Respironics - A Flex, DS6TFLG, EverGo, SimplyGo
    • SeQual Eclipse
    • SeQual eQuinox (Model 4000)
    • SeQual SAROS
    • VBox Trooper
    • SeQual eQuinox
    • SeQual Oxywell
    • VBOX Trooper

     

    POC FAA Battery Requirements

    The FAA requires that a POC user must have 150% of their actual flight time in battery time, regardless of how long the user may choose to use the device as a carry-on item.

    The appropriate number of batteries should be calculated using the manufacturer's estimate of the hours of battery life while the device is in use and the information provided in the physician's statement (e.g., flow rate for the POCs). The expected maximum flight duration is defined as the carrier's best estimate of the total duration of the flight from departure gate to arrival gate.

    Call OxygenToGoopens in a new window at 866-692-0040 to discuss your specific battery needs; OxygenToGo rents batteries for most portable oxygen concentrators.

  • Assistive Devices

    Manufacturer	Model	Label required?
    DevilBiss	Bi-Level S - DV55D Note: unit should not be used with any humidifier attached	​No
    Fishern Paykel	Icon Premo	No
    Freedom	BPS-FD.1	No
    Freedom	BPS-150IN Note: This device approved for use above 10000 ft and should be stowed for taxi, take-off and landing.	No
    ​HDM	​Z1 CPAP	​No
    Intellipap Auto	DV54d-hh                                 Note: unit should not be used with any humidifier attached	No
    Philips Respironics	A30                                                        Note: unit should not be used with any humidifier attached	No
    Phillips Dream Station to GO	DSD500s11	No
    Philips Respironic Dreamstation	Auto	Yes
    Philips Respironics	A40                                            Note: any modem or humidifier accessories should be place in airplane mode or not installed	No
    Respironics	A-Flex	Yes
    Respironics	DS6TFLG	Yes
    Respironics DreamStation	DSX 200, 400, 500, 600 and 700; AHX 200, 400, 500, 600, 700.	No
    	Note: Models ending in H11 or T11 are acceptable if the optional humidifier is not installed (Ex. DSX500H11 or DSX400T11).
    Respironics REMstar	150P, DS 150S, IN 151S, AU151S	Yes
    Respironics REMstar Plus	DS 250S, CA 251S, IN 251S, AU 251S	Yes
    Respironics REMstar Plus	DS 200, DS 200S, IN 201, IN 201S	No
    Respironics REMstar Plus	250P,260P, AH 260S, DS 260S, 261P, IN 261S, LA 261S, 261CA, CA 261S, GB 261S, FI 261S, SE 261S, ES 261S, PT 261S, 267P, CN 267S	No
    Respironics REMstar Pro	FR 365S, 460P, AH 460S, DS 460S, 460P, 461CA, CA 461S, 461P, IN 461S, AU 461S, HL 461S, LA 461S, GB 461S, FI 461S, SE 461S, ES 461S, PT 461S, DE 462S, 466P, JP 466P	No
    Respironics REMstar Pro	DS 450S, CA 451S, IN 451S, AU 451S, 460P	Yes
    Respironics REMstar Pro	DS 400S, IN 401S	No
    Respironics REMstar Auto	DS 550S, CA 551S, IN 551S, AU 551S	Yes
    Respironics REMstar Auto	DS 500S, DS 510S, DS 510W, IN 501S, IN 511S	No
    Respironics REMstar Auto	FR 465S, 500M, 560P, AH 560P, DS 560S, 561P, 561CA, CA 561S, IN 561S, AU 561S, LA 561S, GB 561S, FI 561S, SE 561S, ES 561S, PT 561S, NO 561S, DE 562S, HL 564S, FR 565S, 566P, JP 566S, 567P, CN 567S, 568P, FR 568S	No
    ​Respironics REMstar Auto A-Flex	​550P	​No
    Respironics Bi-PAP Pro	DS 650S, CA 651S, IN 651S, AU 651S	Yes
    Respironics Bi-PAP Pro	660P, AH 660S, DS 660S, 661P, IN 661S, LA 661S, 661CA, CA 661S, FI 661S, SE 661S, ES 661S, PT 661S, NO 661S, 667P, CN 667S	No
    Respironics Bi-PAP Plus	DS 600	No
    Respironics Bi-PAP Auto	DS 750S, CA 751S, IN 751S, AU 751S	Yes
    Respironics Bi-PAP Auto	DS 700S, IN 701S	No
    Respironics Bi-PAP Auto	760P, AH 760S, DS 760S, 761P, AU 761S, IN 761S, LA 761S, 761CA, CA 761S, GB 761S, FI 761S, SE 761S, PT 761S, NO 761S, 762P, DE 762S, 765P, FR 765S, 766P, JP 766S, 767P, CN 767S	No
    Respironics Bi-PAP AVAPS	C-Series - 1060485, 1060486	No
    Respironics Bi-PAP S/T	C-Series - 1061420, 1061421	No
    ​Respironics Synchrony	​LA1029756	​No
    	This device approved for use above 10000ft and should be stowed for taxi, take-off and landing.
    Respironics SystemOne	All devices in the SystemOne family	No
    ResMed	S8 AutoScore II 33044	No
    ​ResMed	​Air10	​No
    ​ResMed	​AirSense 10 Elite (S10 Elite with Integrated Humidifier)	​No
    	37020,037019, 37021, 37023, 37024, 37025, 37043, 37243
    ​ResMed	​​AirSense 10 CPAP	​No
    	160, 37014, 37015, 37016, 37017, 37018, 37036, 37063, 37072, 37203, 37204, 37217, 37218, 37285, 37311, 37312, 37325, 37395, 37398, 37399, 57036
    ​ResMed	​AirSense 10 Autoset	​No
    	37028, 37029, 37031, 37032, 37033, 37064, 37065
    ResMed	S8 AutoSet, S8 AutoSet II, S8 Autoset Vantage, S8 AutoSet Spirit II, S8 AutoSet C, 33112, 33105, 33138, 33129, 33141, 33150, 33130, 33136, 33143, 33144, 33145, 33146, 33147, 33148	No
    ResMed	S8 Auto 25, 26104, 26105, 26125, 26126	No
    ResMed	S8 Compact, 33030	No
    ResMed	S8 Elite, S8 Elite II, 33021, 33039, 33045, 33062, 33072, 33073, 33074, 33075	No
    ResMed	S8 Escape, S8 Escape II, 33001, 33007, 33013, 33036, 33060, 33048, 33051, 33052, 33053, 33054, 33061	No
    ResMed	S8 Lightweight, S8 Lightweight II, 33032, 33055	No
    ResMed	S8 Respond,	No
    	33125, 33137
    ResMed	S9 36001,36004a, IPX1 rx	No
    ResMed	S9 Autoset	No
    	36005, 36015, 36025, 36105, 36115, 36125, 36145, 36205, 36225, 36245, 36265, 36305, 36304, 36325, 36345, 36365
    ResMed	S9 Elite	No
    	36003, 36013, 36023, 36103, 36113, 36123, 36143, 36203, 36223, 36243, 36263, 36303, 36304, 36343, 36363
    ​ResMed	​S9 Escape	​No
    	Note: unit should not be used with any humidifiers attached or wireless modules enabled
    ResMed	S9 Escape Auto Model 36002A, 36001	No
    ResMed	Aircurve 10s 37046, 37051	No
    ResMed	Stellar 150	No
    ResMed	VPAPAuto 25, VPAP IV, VPAP S, VPAP ST, VPAP IV ST	No
    	26101, 26121, 26119, 26120, 26110, 26122
    ResMed	S9 VPAP S36004	No
    Somnetics International	Transcend family of CPAP devices	No
    Transcend Auto	B15e19417	No

    All other C-PAP, Bi-PAP, and V-PAP machines may be carried on, but may not be used during flight.  These machines are considered assistive devices and do not count toward carry on bag allowance.
    Note: Delta does not provide any onboard power sources for medical devices. The customer is responsible for providing batteries with enough charge to support the trip they are on.

  • Electric Field Therapy (EFT) Devices

    The following electric field therapy (EFT) device has been approved by Delta for use on board.  EFT is a type of electromagnetic field therapy using low-intensity electrical fields to treat cancer.
    
    Delta does not provide any onboard power sources for assistive devices. The customer is responsible for providing batteries with enough charge to support the trip they are on.  

    Note: The lithium ion batteries are subject to the normal travel restrictions for batteries.

    Electric Field Therapy (EFT) Devices

    Manufacturer	Model	Label Required?
    Novocure (under the trade name Optune)	NovoTTF-100A	No
    Note: Delta does not provide any onboard power sources for medical devices. The customer is responsible for providing batteries with enough charge to support the trip they are on.

  • Pregnant Travelers

    Delta does not impose restrictions on flying for pregnant women, so a medical certificate is not required to travel. Keep in mind, however, that ticket change fees and penalties cannot be waived for pregnancy. If you're traveling after your eighth month, it's a good idea to check with your doctor to be sure travel is not restricted.
    

  • Peanut Allergies

    When you notify us that you have a peanut allergy, we’ll refrain from serving peanuts and peanut products onboard your flight. We'll also advise cabin service to board additional non-peanut snacks, which will allow our flight attendants to serve these snack items to everyone within this area. Gate agents will be notified in case you'd like to pre-board and cleanse the immediate seating area. Unfortunately we still can't guarantee that the flight will be completely peanut-free. Note that some snack products on board may be processed in plants which also process peanut products.
    
    If you need to make us aware of a peanut allergy for an upcoming flight, please visit My Trips or call Delta reservations at 1-800-221-1212.

  • More Resources

    You might also want to explore these additional resources for more detailed information.

    Special Needs FAQs

    Department of Transportation Rule 14 CFR Part 382: Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability in Air Travel (PDF)opens in a new window
• Wheelchair Services
  • Delta Wheelchair Services

    We can accommodate a variety of types of chairs to ensure that you feel secure at every point in your journey.

    Airport Wheelchairs

    Delta has wheelchairs available for use at airport locations; request this service when making reservations. Upon arrival at the airport, simply notify a Delta representative that you require a wheelchair for transportation to the departure gate.

    Aisle Chairs

    Specially-designed aisle wheelchairs make it easy for our non-ambulatory passengers to reach their seat when boarding and deplaning our aircraft. If you think you need this service, please request it when making reservations so we can have the aisle chair available at your departure gate.

    Onboard Wheelchairs

    Every one of our mainline aircraft includes an onboard wheelchair specially designed to fit the aisle of the aircraft and for use to and from the lavatory. Flight attendants are trained in the operation of this wheelchair and will assist you with its use. (They are not, however, required to lift or carry you.) This onboard wheelchair is not used outside the aircraft; if you need a wheelchair at a connecting point, arrangements can be made in advance via Reservations.

    Alternative Boarding Devices

    Stairways are sometimes used for boarding instead of loading bridges. If you are unable to ascend or descend steps, let a Delta representative know, and we will provide an alternative boarding method.

    Delta Electric Cart Service

    In select stations, Delta offers electric cart service.  However, cart service is not available in all cities.  The frequency of electric cart service cannot be guaranteed so please give yourself adequate time to arrive with time to access the services in the terminals.

  • Personal Wheelchair Services

    To accommodate all of our passengers, we transport all types of personal wheelchairs, including:      

    • Folding, collapsible and non-folding manual wheelchairs
    • Electric/battery-powered wheelchairs and one additional wheelchair battery
    • Electric-powered carts and scooters and one additional wheelchair battery
    • Crutches, braces, or other prosthetic devices

    For smooth service, please provide at least 48 hours advance notice and be sure to check in at the ticket counter at least one hour ahead of departure if you need to check any battery-powered equipment.

    You will find it helpful to fill out this form to accompany your wheelchair. Please print the form and place in a plastic sleeve or laminate for repeated use. It can be placed in the seat of the wheelchair or attached to the back of the chair.
     

    Cabin Stowage

    We limit the number of personal wheelchairs to one personal wheelchair per flight. If you use a collapsible personal wheelchair, you may ask to have it stowed onboard when you are pre-boarded if it meets the size and weight restrictions for the approved storage space on the aircraft. (Not all aircraft stowage locations accommodate all sizes of wheelchairs.) Wheelchairs stowed onboard take priority over other carry-on items except those of through passengers.

    Checking Your Wheelchair

    You may check your wheelchair at the ticket counter or the gate and use Delta’s wheelchair equipment for travel within the airport.

    If you have powered equipment that may require disassembly, please check it at the ticket counter so we may arrange for proper handling. Detachable items, like seat cushions and footrests, can be carried onboard or checked with the wheelchair in the cargo compartment.

    If the wheelchair will fit upright through the aircraft cargo compartment door — or if it can be stowed upright in the cargo compartment — we will not need to disassemble your electric/battery-powered wheelchair and will leave the batteries attached.

    If disassembly of the wheelchair is required, our employees may need instructions. Please attach assembly/disassembly instructions, along with your wheelchair's specific battery type, to the wheelchair.

    If you’d prefer to use your personal wheelchair within the airport, you can arrange to have us check your personal wheelchair at the departing gate and return it to you at destination gate or at a connecting airport. Keep in mind, however, that the time between connecting flights may be insufficient to provide this service during layover, especially if disassembly and re-assembly of your wheelchair is required. If time is a factor, we recommend that you take advantage of Delta’s wheelchair service instead.

    Federal Regulations

    Delta and Delta Connection Carriers allow customers with battery-powered wheelchairs to check these assistive devices at the gate without having to disconnect the battery before transport. In order to transport your wheelchair or scooter without disconnecting the battery, your wheelchair or mobility aid must possess a defect-free battery in a rigid compartment that is integral to the device. The equipment must also have an effective method of preventing accidental activation during transport, including:  

    • Inserting charger (effectively disengages power to the battery)
    • Turning key off, removing the key
    • Turning a kill switch
    • Removing a power arm
    • Taping a switch in closed position

    There may be other circumstances that require the battery be disconnected. If you have any questions prior to travel please contact Delta Reservations and ask to be connected to the CRO Desk. At the airport, ask any Delta representative for assistance.

    Batteries

    You can help us by identifying your wheelchair batteries as either lithium-ion, spillable or non-spillable so that our employees may establish correct federal Dangerous Goods handling procedures.

    Lithium Ion Batteries

    There is currently no limit on a self-contained Lithium Ion battery in a mobility device.

    Wet-cell

    Wet-cell batteries are considered spillable and required special preparations to be transported by air. In preparation, we must disconnect the battery and protect the terminals against electrical shorting. If we cannot fit your wheelchair equipment upright through the aircraft cargo compartment door, we must remove the battery and transport it in Delta's battery box (to meet all federal Dangerous Goods handling requirements). We cannot transport damaged or leaking batteries by air.

    Dry-cell "Non-spillable"

    Dry-cell and gel-cell batteries are considered non-spillable and have fewer requirements for handling. Powered wheelchair batteries may remain attached when the equipment fits upright through the aircraft cargo compartment door. Delta personnel will need to know that your device can be stowed in the aircraft without accidental activation or they will be required to disconnect the battery post connectors and wrap each post connector with tape to prevent electrical shorts during shipping.

  • Aircraft Bin Doors Specifications

    Due to the size of the aircraft bin doors on aircraft operated by Delta and our Delta Connection Carriers, some wheelchairs may not fit into the cargo compartment.

    Customers traveling with wheelchairs on the airlines listed below are encouraged to review the dimensions below to determine whether their wheelchairs will fit into the cargo compartment, and to provide their wheelchair dimensions (height x width x depth) to Delta Reservations, in advance, for inclusion in their travel record.

    To determine whether a wheelchair is within these specifications, removable parts such as footrests, headrests, cushions, removable armrests, etc. may be removed prior to measuring.

    Exact Dimensions of Aircraft Bin Doors by Aircraft Type
• Advisory Board on Disabilities

  Delta's Advisory Board on Disability promotes accessibility for all of our customers by providing leadership in achieving our mission: Making Delta the carrier of choice for customers through thoughtful, reliable and innovative service to the disability community. Over 70% of the Advisory board is comprised of individuals with different disabilities who are regular Delta passengers.
   
  We’re proud to count the following leaders among the members of our Advisory Board:
  
  Shanti Aaron - Atlanta, Georgia
  Work Incentive Planning and Assistive Services Project Lead,
  Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency, External Affairs
  
  Shanti Aaron is the Work Incentive Planning and Assistance Services Director for Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency (GVRA). She holds a MS degree from the University of Wisconsin-Stout in Vocational Rehabilitation, as well as post-graduate certification in Management. She has worked in all facets of Vocational Rehabilitation for twenty five plus years. Ms. Aaron has served on a variety of Boards and Committees as an advocate for persons with disabilities. She is currently the Chair for the employment Committee for the Georgia Coalition for the Blind, and serves on the Training Education Compliance and Outreach Committee for the Delta Advisory Board for persons with Disabilities. She lives in Atlanta with her husband and has two adult children and two grandchildren.

  Grover Evans, Ph.D. - Little Rock, Arkansas
  Evans & Associates of Arkansas

  Grover Evans is the founder and CEO of Evans and Associates of Arkansas. He served as special consultant for system design for Arkansas Rehabilitation Services and Department of Health and Human Service. He is the former Director of Disability Determination for the Social Security Administration for Arkansas. Grover was inducted into the Arkansas Black Hall of Fame, Arkansas Swimming Hall of Fame, publisher and author of numerous articles on wellness, goal setting and other health related issues. He and his wife, Helen have two children and a granddaughter.

  Catherine Leigh Graham - Blythewood, South Carolina
  Executive Director - SC Spinal Cord Injury Research Fund

  Catherine is the Executive Director of the South Carolina Spinal Cord Injury Research Fund which promotes research to develop better understanding of causes and effective treatment strategies for paralysis, sensory loss and other consequences of spinal cord injury and disease.  Catherine also works as a rehabilitation engineer with over 20 years as owner of her ADA consulting group providing assessments and transition plans for businesses throughout the US. 

  Carol Gray - Zeeland, Michigan
  Social Stories - Author, Speaker, Subject Matter Expert

  Carol Gray is a Consultant to Children, Adolescents, and Adults with Autism.  She is an internationally sought-after keynote and seminar speaker, and has completed over 1,000 presentations. She is best known for the development of Social Stories, a well-respected evidence-based practice used worldwide with people with autism of all ages. Carol is the recipient of several awards for her contributions to the education and welfare of individuals with autism worldwide.  For more information about Carol and her work, or to contact her, visit www.CarolGraySocialStories.comopens in a new window.

  Robert Haas – Columbus Ohio
  Amputee Coalition of Columbus Ohio, Retired US Navy, Motivational Speaker

  After a distinguished career in the US Navy, Robert experienced disability in a profound way while serving in the US Navy Reserve.  He became acutely aware of what happens as many of our returning veterans experiencing debilitating injuries and vowed to make a difference in their lives as well as his own.  His mission is to help veterans return to an active recreational lifestyle instead of a sedentary one.  Robert is the founder of Amputee Recreational Support Group for Central Ohio.

  J. R. Harding, Ph.D. - Tallahassee, Florida
  External Affairs Manager, Agency for People with Disabilities

  Dr. JR Harding is a recognized disability leader from both personal and professional experiences. As a 2x quadriplegic, author of "Now What?",opens in a new window accessibility expert, and international speaker, he has contributed for over 30 years to national, state, and community policy for the independence and self-sufficiency of persons with disabilities. He has served under 2 US Presidents, 4 Florida Governors, and continuously serves on a number of community-based organizations. This service currently includes: The Able Trust (Ambassador), Evergreen Life Services, the Florida Alliance for Assistive Service and Technology (FAAST), the Florida Network on Disabilitiesopens in a new window (Director) and the Delta Disability Advisory Boardopens in a new window (member). He is the first person with a significant disability to graduate from both Leadership Florida, Leadership Tallahassee, and he is also a co-founder of Florida Disability Mentoring Day (DMD). He completed his doctorate from Florida State University (FSU) in Higher Education and Public Policy. He works full-time for the state of Florida with the Agency of Persons with Disabilitiesopens in a new window (APD). He and his lovely wife Erika live and work in Tallahassee, FL.

  Michael Harris - Novi, Michigan
  Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) - Michigan

  Michael F. Harris is Executive Director of the Michigan Paralyzed Veterans of America. PVA members are honorably discharged veterans of the United States Armed Services who have incurred spinal cord injury or disease resulting in paralysis and are dependent upon the use of a wheelchair for mobility. He has served on the Customer Advisory Board at Northwest Airlines since 2001.
   
  Minna Hong - Atlanta, Georgia
  Shepherd Center

  Minna A. Hong is the SCI (Spinal Cord Injury) Peer Support Coordinator at Shepherd Center in Atlanta, Georgia. She is also a Board Member of Disability Resource Group and distribution committee member for Brain and Spinal Cord Injury Trust Fund, GA. She also serves as a guest lecturer for Emory University, the University of Georgia, Mercer University and Georgia State University's physical therapy, occupational therapy and physician assistant students. Minna is a spinal cord injury survivor, wife and mother of two young adults.
   
  John Kemp – New York, New York
  President and CEO of the Viscardi Center

  John D. Kemp, Esq. became only the fourth President & CEO of The Viscardi Center a non-profit organization providing a life span of services that educate, employ and empower people with disabilities. He is widely respected for his many achievements, both in the corporate and non-profit worlds. As a person with a disability who uses four prostheses, he inspires others to achieve the impossible through knowledge, experience, vision, personality, and persistence. Mr. Kemp graduated from Georgetown University in 1971 and from Washburn University School of Law in 1974. In March 2006, Mr. Kemp received the Henry B. Betts Award, widely regarded as America's highest honor for disability leadership and service. With more than 50 years of direct experience in the disability movement, John D. Kemp has partnered with, worked for and served as Board Member/Chair or CEO of some of the leading disability and nonprofit organizations.. In 1995, Mr. Kemp co-founded the American Association of People with Disabilities with Paul G. Hearne.  In 2001, he became a partner in the Washington, DC Law Firm of Powers, Pyles, Sutter & Verville, P.C., where he developed an active federal legislative and lobbying practice.  In January 2014, Mr. Kemp received the David Award, bestowed upon ‘Renaissance men’ of Long Island by Networking magazine who have excelled in business or academics and also accomplished outstanding heroic and humanitarian acts.  John was recently awarded the prestigious Robert Dole Award for his exemplary leadership to the disability community.

  Alan Muir – Knoxville, TN
  Career Opportunities for Students with Disabilities – University of Tennessee

  After joining the University of Tennessee (UT) in 1998, Alan Muir recognized the disconnect between post-secondary offices of disability services and career services at universities across the country.  Subsequently, Mr. Muir co-founded Career Opportunities for Students with Disabilities (COSD), and became Executive Director.  Under his leadership, COSD experienced significant growth, bringing together member entities including universities, employers, and U.S. Government agencies to focus on career employment of college graduates with disabilities.  He has presented at universities, employers and many conferences nationwide.  Mr. Muir’s previous experience was as a Vice-President with Chase Manhattan Bank for 16 years.  Mr. Muir’s outside involvement in disability and employment issues includes current memberships in Association of Higher Education and Disability (AHEAD), Tennessee AHEAD, National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) and Southern Association of Colleges and Employers (SoACE).  In 2011, Mr. Muir received the Fred Strache Award for Leadership from the California State University Northridge (CSUN) Center on Disabilities at the 26th Annual Technology and Persons with Disabilities Conference.  Mr. Muir also was the recipient of the 2004 AAPD / Paul G. Hearne Leadership Award, a distinguished and highly competitive national honor.  Community service involvement includes membership on the Board of Directors of the Disability Law and Advocacy Center in Nashville, TN .

  David Nelson - Washington, DC
  National Association of the Deaf (NAD)
  
  David Nelson served as President of the District of Columbia Association of the Deaf and the Florida School for the Deaf Alumni Association and has been with NAD since 1978. He represents NAD on issues concerning telecommunication and transportation. David is Sr. Community Outreach Specialist in Government Affairs/Corporate Communications at the National Railroad Passenger Corporation (Amtrak). David is responsible for providing accessibility information, managing outreach activities by Amtrak to the disability community and overseeing internal projects to ensure accessible compliance. He holds a bachelor's degree from the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), as well as degrees from the National Technical Institute of the Deaf (NTID).  He attended high school at the Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind. In addition, David has received NAD’s most prestigious award, the Fred C. Schreiber Distinguished Service Award, as well as the RIT 2015 Distinguished Alumni Award for the NTID.

  David Rosenthal- Minneapolis, MN
  Director, Minnesota Department of Human Services, Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services Division

  David, who is Deaf, was the Executive Director of the Kansas Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing when he worked with the Kansas Corporation Commission to establish the Kansas Relay Center service prior to the establishment of the Americans with Disabilities Act.  David served 17 years as manager and area manager for Southwestern Bell Telephone Company (now AT&T) in the Kansas Relay Center.  During his time with Southwestern Bell, David also was involved with the National Emergency Number Association by helping them help Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) to improve their communications accessibility and responding effectively to people with hearing loss when they call 9-1-1 for assistance. After leaving AT&T, David was president of the Kansas Telecommunications Industry Association for 6 years.  He is currently the director of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services for the Minnesota Department of Human Services.
  
  Jay Stiteley – Houston, TX
  Manager – Department of Neighborhoods, Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities – Houston Texas

  Jay Stiteley currently works for the City of Houston, Department of neighborhoods, as Division Manager of the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities, since February of 2014. Prior to this, Jay has worked in the field of services to individuals who are blind and visually impaired since 1978.  He has served as a rehabilitation teacher for newly blinded adults and has taught assistive technology.  In the area of assistive technology, his accomplishments include the establishment of computer access centers for the Veterans Administration in Palo Alto, CA and the Criss Cole Rehabilitation Center in Austin, TX.  He served as Field Representative with The Seeing Eye, Inc. in Morristown, NJ and Houston, TX, traveling extensively throughout the U.S. and Canada.  His experience in management includes work as National Technology Program Director with the American Foundation for the Blind in Chicago, IL and Dean of Students with the Tennessee School for the Blind in Nashville, TN.  Most recently, he held the post of Director of Rehabilitation Services with World Services for the Blind in Little Rock, AR.  His advocacy work includes previous service on the Federal Communications Commission Consumer Advisory Committee and Verizon’s Customer Advisory Board. Currently, he serves on Delta’s Advisory Board for Disabilities, a post he has held since 2009.  A native of Plainfield, IL, Stiteley holds a Master of Science in Rehabilitation Teaching (Northern Illinois University - DeKalb, IL), Master of Science in Management (Thomas Edison State College - Trenton, NJ) and Bachelor of Arts in History/Education (Rockford University - Rockford, IL).  In 1980, he participated in the Olympics for the Disabled (now called Para-Olympics) in Arnhem, Holland as a member of the U.S. swimming and track team. Jay is chair of the Education and Outreach Committee for the Advisory Board.

  Mallory Weggemann – Minneapolis, Minnesota
  Paralympic Gold Medalist, Motivational Speaker

  Mallory has been a competitive swimmer since the age of seven.  After her injury at the age of 18, Weggemann chose to return to the pool.  In April 2008, her older sister found an article in the local newspaper discussing the Paralympic Swimming Trials.  Still learning her new life with a disability, Weggemann found one thing unchanged, her love for swimming.  Mallory showcased her amazing abilities by winning gold and setting a Paralympic Record in the 50m freestyle.  Mallory also anchored the bronze medal winning 4x100m medley relay team, bringing USA back from fifth place to almost capturing gold!  It has been deemed one of the most memorable moments of the London Games, and it inspired many across the world. Mallory is also a highly sought after motivational speaker for corporations and has been a speaker at TEDX.

  Glen W. White, Ph.D. - Lawrence, Kansas
  Research and Training Center on Independent Living at the University of Kansas

  Glen is Director of the Research & Training Center on Independent Living at the University of Kansas, serving as Principal Investigator of the Research and Training Center on Community Living. He conducts research that focuses on increasing opportunity for consumers with disabilities to more fully participate in the community.  Dr. White has regularly conducted research and training in Perú and has more recently conducted research with colleagues in Korea and Japan.  He is past president of the National Association of Rehabilitation Research and Training Centers, past Chair of the American Public Health Association's Disability Forum and serves as an adviser and consultant to many national organizations. Dr. White is Professor of Applied Behavioral Science, where he teaches behavioral, community psychology and disability studies. Dr. White is the current Chairman of the Delta Advisory Board on Disability.

• Questions and Additional Resources

  Questions and Additional Resources

  We are dedicated to providing convenient and comfortable service for all our customers. We strive to ensure our services and aircraft are accessible to all individuals with disabilities.

  If you have any concerns regarding discrimination, accommodations, or services for any related to passengers with disabilities please report these to an airport customer service agent and request to speak with a complaints resolution official (CRO).

  Our CROs have been specially trained on Department of Transportation (DOT) disability regulations and Delta policy. They are available at all airport locations during the airport operating hours and will be glad to respond to your concerns while you are at the airport. If you are away from the airport, we invite you to call our dedicated accessible services line for assistance at 404-209-3434 and ask to speak to a CRO.

  • Contacting the Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

    TSA Cares is a toll-free helpline to provide information and assistance to passengers with disabilities and medical conditions and their families before they fly. Travelers can call 1-855-787-2227 if they have questions about screening policies, procedures or what to expect when they arrive at the airport security checkpoint.

    Travelers who are deaf or hard of hearing can use a relay service to contact TSA Cares or can e-mail TSA-ContactCenter@dhs.gov. Locate more information about traveling with disabilities and medical needs at: tsa.govopens in a new window.

  • Contacting the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT)

    Sharing your feedback

    If you have any questions, concerns or feedback, we welcome you to share directly with our Customer Care team. You may also contact the U.S. Department of Transportation, Aviation Consumer Protection with your comments and questions, using one of these methods:

    Website: http://www.transportation.gov/airconsumeropens in a new window
    
    The Air Carrier Access Act prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in air travel and requires air carriers to accommodate the needs of passengers with disabilities. Download the U.S. Department of Transportation regulations for Non-Discrimination on the Basis of Disability in Air Travel.

    You can also receive a copy by mail by calling the:

    • Toll-Free Hotline for Air Travelers with Disabilities at
      1-800-778-4838 (voice) or 1-800-455-9880 (TTY), or the
    • Aviation Consumer Protection Division at 202-366-2220 (voice) or 202-366-0511 (TTY), or send a written request to the mailing address listed below.

    Mailing address:
    Aviation Consumer Protection Division, C-75
    U.S. Department of Transportation
    1200 New Jersey Ave S.E.
    West Building Room W96-432
    Washington, DC 20590