5 Best Mobility Scooters for Air Travel
“Can I take my mobility scooter on an airplane” is a primary concern of people who require aid for getting around. After all, taking a bulky vehicle on an airline is practically impossible. However, travel is an investment in yourself, and one shouldn’t compromise due to the lack of mobility. Traveling also improves energy and enhances confidence in senior travelers by enabling them to get out of their comfort zone.
Thankfully, manufacturers and authorities understand this need and introduced various models of high-quality scooters suitable for air travel. In this guide, let’s go over the 5 best mobility scooters for air travel and prepare you for the next vacation.
5 Best Folding Mobility Scooters Review
1. Pride iRide 2 Travel Scooter
The Pride iRide 2 is a perfect travel companion with portable and lightweight features. Plus, it is foldable in 2 simple steps without any tools or professional help. Just remove the seat and lower the tiller through the available knob. Your mobility scooter will fold to approximately 15 ¾” in height for easy transport in the car, plane, and cruise.
Travelers will also find the scooter practical when it comes to weight and speed. Without the battery, the compact scooter weighs only 42 lbs. The scooter also has reverse and 3-speed functions, with a maximum range of 5.8 mph. The iRide 2 is equipped with dual brakes - a manual hand brake and a supplemental foot brake for enhanced safety. It is also easy to maneuver, with a 33.5” turning radius.
The stylish scooter has a user-friendly LCD that displays different functions to keep the riders comfortable. The on/off button is on the dashboard for easy access as well. The Pride mobility scooter has a weight capacity of 250 lbs.
Features
- Height adjustable seat with high back
- Folding seat
- Digital display
- Portable
- Easy to fold with adjustment knob
- Battery: 36 volts, 5.2 AH lithium-ion (weight:4.5 lbs)
- Available in colors: Arctic Ice, Blackberry, Mango, Raspberry
Bottom Line
Pride Mobility is a leading name in the mobility aid industry, renowned for creating high-quality products. And their iRide 2 is no exception. The portable and appealing vehicle is lightweight, speedy, and boasts exceptional features. These make the aid vehicle one of the perfect purchases for those who are always on the go.
2. Enhance Mobility Transformer Folding Mobility Scooter
The Enhance Mobility Transformer is a complete electric model that folds and unfolds in seconds with a handy remote controller. When folded, you will discover the Transformer to be around the size of an average-sized suitcase that can easily fit in the trunk of any car. Moreover, the vehicle weighs only 53 lbs (without the batteries), so there should be no problem with portability.
Riders will also enjoy the scooter’s all-day range of 13.5 miles, with a top speed of 3.7 mph. The turning radius is 55”, optimal for narrow spaces and tight turns.
Back problems for seniors are a thing of the past when you ride the Enhance Mobility Transformer around the globe. The mobility scooter comes with a 17” padded seat and a backrest for added comfort. The tiller is adjustable so that the riders can modify the height according to their preference. You will also find the control panel easy and comfortable to operate. The Enhance Mobility Transformer is suitable for riders up to 300 lbs.
Features
- Ultra-portable
- Compact and stylish design
- Remote control on/off feature (manual also available)
- Ideal driving functions for users with reduced mobility in fingers or constant hand pain
- Flip-up armrests for easy transfers
- Battery: Power Type/Lithium Battery
- Available in colors: Red, Blue, Yellow, Black
Bottom Line
Your search for a no-hassle mobility scooter ends with Enhance Mobility Transformer. Apart from the sleek and compact aesthetic, the mobility scooter has straightforward functions. They allow just about anyone to cruise around with ease.
3. EV Rider Transport AF 3-Wheel Folding Mobility Scooter
The EV Rider Transport AF 3-Wheeler is another folding mobility scooter that snaps open and closes with a handheld remote controller. No need to bend or ask for assistance - just press the button and your mobility scooter will turn into a neat and compact shape. Plus, at 44 lbs, the Transport AF is a very lightweight unit, making travel a breeze.
Tight space and narrow lanes? No problem! The EV Rider has a great turning radius of 31” for easy maneuverability. Riders (and their caretakers) can also benefit from the peace of mind about tires going flat. This is because the unit features flat-free tires that don’t require air and can easily tackle rough terrains.
The Transport AF supports riders weighing up to 250 lbs. It has a maximum speed of 3.8 mph and a driving range of around 10 miles. It comes with a fish-on-style seat that is comfortable and supportive for prolonged sitting positions. The tiller is height adjustable.
Features
- Automatic folding and unfolding mechanism with remote controller
- Convenient portability and storage
- Attractive and sturdy design
- LED headlight
- 2-way throttle control
- European CE Certified, FDA Certified.
- Battery: 24v 11.5ah lithium battery
- Available in colors: Blue, Copper, Red, Silver
Bottom Line
One of the lightest mobile scooters in the market, the EV Rider Transport AF 3-Wheel is a great buy for users who enjoy zooming in style and speed. The seating is also comfortable, with ample legroom to keep the riders relaxed and content.
4. Buzzaround CarryOn Mobility Scooter
The Buzzaround CarryOn by Golden Technologies is a versatile vehicle with many usable specs that make getting around a breeze. Weighing only 65.5 lbs, the mobility scooter can be split into two pieces for portability. Once disassembled, the heaviest part will weigh around 47.5 lbs (without the batteries and seat). Plus, the height (when folded) is only 12”, enabling the users to store it conveniently.
The mobility scooter is also ideal for riders who enjoy a leisurely ‘roll.’ Boasting a weight capacity of 300 lbs, the Buzzaround CarryOn offers a maximum speed of 3.6 mph. On the contrary, the driving range is quite good at 18 miles with a credible ground clearance.
For the user's comfort, the travel-friendly scooter comes with a padded seat, flip-back armrest, and an adjustable tiller. Another impressive feature is the availability of a USB charging port. Since it's generally not a standard feature, tech-savvy users will benefit from staying connected on the go.
Features
- Stylish design
- Easy to disassemble
- Easy to store
- Front and rear LED light package
- Exceptional driving range
- Battery: 15 Ah lithium-ion (weight: 6 lbs)
- Travel pack (sold separately)
- Available in colors: Red, Blue
Bottom Line
The Buzzaround CarryOn is a great find for frequent (and light) travelers. With its excellent driving range, easy speed, and add-on accessories, we highly recommend this product to consumers who enjoy prolonged yet relaxed drives.
5. EV Rider Transport AF 4-Wheel Folding Mobility Scooter
The EV Rider Transport AF 4-Wheeler is an excellent space saver and lightweight vehicle. Similar to its 3-wheel model, the mobility scooter comes with a remote controller that you can use to snap it open and close. The feature is perfect for senior citizens and users with frailing strengths. Additionally, it comes with dimensions that can fit in most car trunks and even under-the-bed areas. And the 52 lbs weight is convenient for carrying, so you can utilize it everywhere you go.
The 4-wheeler EV Rider has a weight capacity of 250 lbs. At 4 mph, the riding speed is moderate. However, it does make up for the speed by providing an excellent drive range of 10 miles. The maneuverability of the EV Rider is 39.4”. This is also fantastic if you enjoy maneuvering around the malls, ferries, and narrow streets. And if you are out in the dark, the dual LED front lights will illuminate your path.
When it comes to comfort, the EV Rider does not disappoint - as always. It comes with a fully adjustable tiller. Just loosen the knob to adjust the height as per your preference. It also features a contoured seat, carpeted footboard, footrest, and additional legroom. On the tiller, you will find a controller to adjust speed, horn, and other specs.
Features
- One-click folding/unfolding with remote controller
- Comfortable seating with a spacious deck room
- LED light package
- Great turning radius
- Enhanced stability with 4-wheel design
- Battery: 24v 11.5ah lithium battery
- Available in colors: Jupiter Gold, Metallic Red, and Sapphire Blue
Bottom Line
Shine bright with the EV Rider Transport AF 4-Wheeler. The mobility scooter is not only designed for travel - but also to make your personality come alive. The 4-wheel drive has all the features for a smooth travel experience and is highly enjoyed by customers.
What to Look for When Picking the Best Mobility Scooter for Air Travel
Batteries
Look for mobility scooters equipped with lithium-ion batteries. According to the FAA, lithium-ion batteries limited to 300 Watt Hours (WH) are the safest for airplanes without risking any combustion.
The batteries must also be placed in an accessible area, so you can easily un-attach them before loading on an airplane.
Speed and Driving Range
Since you intend to travel with a specific mobility scooter, you will need one that provides you with an optimal driving range. It’s often impractical to charge when you are on the go. So look for one that gives a driving distance that lasts you the maximum.
Additionally, the speed capability should give you the preferred pace. Generally, most mobility scooters give around 3 - 4 mph. But this can fluctuate depending on the user’s weight and terrain conditions.
Understand the Suitable Terrain
Travel-friendly mobility scooters are lightweight and not as sturdy as their heavier counterparts. Therefore, they can be damaged when used in snow and mud. They are sometimes also not suitable for uneven terrains. If you plan to travel frequently, choose mobility scooters with better outdoor functionality. As well as the ability to withstand different terrain conditions.
Number of Wheels
The number of wheels also plays a role in maximizing your stability in different road conditions. The 3-wheel models may offer less stability but have a tight turning radius for better maneuverability. Three-wheel models also offer more legroom, which is helpful for tall riders or those with stiff joints.
On the other hand, 4-wheel mobility scooters have two wheels on the back and two on the front to support the riders. They are more stable for users with balance issues. You will also find some mobility scooters to have the two front wheels close together for an improved turning circle.
Comfortable Seat
Examine the scooter to ensure it has a well-padded seat to keep you comfortable during rides. Most models come with adjustable seats and armrests so that you can modify them as per your height and preference. When adjusting the seat, keep the position that allows you to operate the tiller without arching your body.
Check the product’s weight capacity to verify that it can accommodate your weight and the items you need to transport.
Assembling Mechanism
Besides being lightweight, the mobility scooter you take on a plane should have a user-friendly setup mechanism. In most cases, you will need to fold or disassemble the vehicle, so make sure the process is straightforward for anyone to perform.
For example, a remote controller is the handiest tool to fold and unfold a vehicle. Some mobility scooters can also be divided into two easy-to-carry parts. However, this should also be simple and require minimal assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does a Mobility Scooter for Air Travel Cost?
The price for a mobility scooter depends on its specifications, brand, and size, but a reasonable range is between $1000 - $3000.
Can I Take My Mobility Scooter on an Airplane?
Your mobility scooter must be checked in with your luggage at the airport. A dedicated airplane aisle-size wheelchair will be provided to you for transfers in the airport and plane. However, your mobility scooter will not count as luggage. Instead, it is classified as assistive equipment, so there will be no extra charge for stowing.
Do I Need to Inform the Airlines About Traveling With a Mobility Scooter?
To avoid any disturbance, check with your airline at least 48 hours before your flight to confirm the compliance of your battery. Some airlines also ask for a compliance certificate for the battery. Make sure to ask your mobility scooter supplier for the documentation when you purchase the vehicle.
Where Is the Scooter Stored in the Plane?
A wheelchair that collapses into a compact size can be stored in the aircraft's overhead compartment. However, most mobility scooters are sent away with the cargo.
What Are the Rules for Taking Batteries on a Plane?
Airlines allow all non-spillable batteries in the aircraft. But you must keep them in your carry-on bags or with the cabin crew so proper prevention measures are taken in case a thermal runaway occurs. To avoid short circuits, you should pack the batteries correctly and cover exposed terminals with tape.
Conclusion
Now that you know about traveling on an airplane with a mobility scooter, it's time to plan your next vacation. No matter where your next destination is, we have a range of airplane-friendly mobility scooters according to your health conditions, personal preference, and budget.
