Extra ECV battery on plane question

[Goldelpack]

Over the years I've always rented an ecv even though I bring my own with me. The issue was battery life. Now I have 2 major differences that makes me think I should use my own at wdw. 1. I have 2 usable batteries so I can swap while recharging one of them and 2. I have dropped over 100 pounds making me way lighter on the scooter. (And if necessary I can rent one while I'm there if it doesn't work)..
So my question is if anyone has traveled with an extra battery and would I be able to put it into the front basket on my scooter and still have it boarded on a Delta plane?
I appreciate any thoughts about this

 

[DL1WDW2]

Earlier today , a video popped about about 5 MAJOR Travel changes for 2026 including the SW seating …and passports and Real ID .
Also changes for battery size regulations on airplane…
Sorry It was just random pop up but very important for you to be aware of before you make a new battery purchase..
I will try to google and figure out what the travel site was.

 

[Lewisc]

What kind of battery? Lithium or SLA?

 

[Goldelpack]

What kind of battery? Lithium or SLA?

Not lithium. It's listed as dry/non spillable and is always allowed to stay on my scooter on Delta flights

 

[DL1WDW2]

I am now reading about Sealed Lead Acid batteries… I admit I had no idea about lithium batteries overheating and causing a fire.
It is interesting to read about all the updates to travel for 2026 .
They are even trying to control noise pollution in airports .

 

[Goldelpack]

Wanted to share a potential answer to my question - keep in mind that I'm specifically talking about Delta airlines and a very large NOT LITHIUM dry non spillable probably classified as SLA. My desire is to keep it WITH my scooter - in the basket. Usually I drive up to the plane in the scooter and at the end of the jetway I park it by the door (both to the plane and outside). The only difference is having a SPARE battery in the basket. I was wondering if anyone has done this - and what their experience was. I'm still not sure if I can put it in the basket - as the final section seems to say it needs special something something. I'm hoping that I can do this at the delta check in counter - they could either let me keep it there, tell me what to put it in, or add it to checked bags or something.
Anyway - here's the official FAA policy:

Wheelchairs and Mobility Devices with Non-Spillable or Dry Batteries​

Electric wheelchair, mobility scooter

This description includes wheelchairs and mobility devices with nonspillable (gel cell, absorbed electrolyte) batteries or dry cell batteries. For lithium ion batteries, see separate entries in the PackSafe chart.

The battery may remain installed if it is securely attached to the mobility device, the design of the wheelchair or mobility aid provides protection from damage to the battery, and the terminals are protected from a short circuit. The battery cables may remain connected only if the device is protected from accidental activation. For complete passenger instructions contact your airline as advanced arrangements and extra check-in time may be necessary.

A maximum of one spare battery is allowed per passenger in accordance with airline instructions. Extra conditions and strong rigid packaging are required for spare batteries. For complete passenger instructions contact your airline as advanced arrangements and extra check-in time may be necessary.

See the regulation: 49 CFR 175.10(a)(15)

 

[CarolynFH]

I'm hoping that I can do this at the delta check in counter

I wouldn’t wait. I’d contact Delta now and ask. Even if the check-in agent knows what you’re talking about, they may not have the “strong rigid packaging” the policy refers to at the desk, and who knows how long it might take to get it there. The Delta website offers a Message Us link under the Customer Service section at the bottom of the main page, and that’s where I’d start. Have a good trip!

 

[Lewisc]

https://www.delta.com/us/en/accessible-travel-services/wheelchair-services

Fill out the form

 

[Goldelpack]

https://www.delta.com/us/en/accessible-travel-services/wheelchair-services

Fill out the form

Been using that form for a very long time. This wdw trip isn't until April and I'll be taking delta flights to other places before that (actually 2 days from now ) without the spare battery. I will ask delta in person weds at the airport

 

[Goldelpack]

I wouldn’t wait. I’d contact Delta now and ask. Even if the check-in agent knows what you’re talking about, they may not have the “strong rigid packaging” the policy refers to at the desk, and who knows how long it might take to get it there. The Delta website offers a Message Us link under the Customer Service section at the bottom of the main page, and that’s where I’d start. Have a good trip!

Good idea! I'm going to ask while I'm at the airport this week for a different destination and no spare but same airport I'll be using for my April wdw trip. Hopefully I can get an answer or have them research it for me