Wheelchair & Mobility Aid Policy, Virgin Australia
General Policy
- Wheelchairs/mobility aids travel free of charge when required for your personal mobility.
- You should notify Virgin Australia in advance if you’ll be travelling with a wheelchair or powered mobility device (ideally when booking or at least ~48–72 hours before departure).
- Airline staff will assist you from check-in to boarding, and if your own wheelchair must be stowed, they’ll provide an aisle chair to help you board.
Battery-Powered Wheelchairs / Mobility Aids
Battery-powered wheelchairs and mobility scooters are allowed, but must comply with safety & dangerous goods rules:
Permitted Battery Types
Virgin Australia accepts mobility aids powered by:
- Non-spillable (sealed lead-acid, gel, AGM) batteries
- Dry-cell batteries (e.g., NiMH, NiCd)
- Lithium-ion batteries that meet UN safety standards (UN 38.3) and show a watt-hour (Wh) rating.
Preparing Batteries for Travel
Whether your battery stays installed or is removed for transport:
1. Battery Terminals Must Be Protected
- Cover terminals (e.g. tape) to prevent short circuits.
- Ensure the wheelchair cannot be accidentally activated.
2. Lithium-ion Batteries
Packing & Handling
- If the battery needs removal, carry it properly in the cabin, terminals covered, and in a protective pouch/case.
Wheelchair/Mobility Aid Dimensions & Handling
While the main focus is on batteries, Virgin Australia’s form and guidance also indicate:
- For really large mobility devices, provide dimensions and weights at booking so the airline can confirm if aircraft space will accommodate the device.
- Airline staff cannot disassemble or reassemble your wheelchair; you’ll need to prepare it for travel if required.
Assistance & Booking
To ensure a smooth journey:
- Complete a Specific Service Request form when booking and include details about your mobility aid, including battery type and specs.
- Call Virgin Australia’s guest contact centre if you are travelling soon or need help with arrangements.
Important Safety Reminder (Batteries)
Recent changes across airlines, including Virgin Australia, reinforce safety around lithium batteries. Spare batteries and power banks must be carried in the cabin rather than checked luggage, have limited capacity, and must be protected from short circuits due to fire risk concerns onboard aircraft.