Can You Take Crutches on a Plane? UK Rules and Airport Help

Yes, you can take crutches on a plane. UK security rules say walking aids are usually allowed in the cabin, though they must be screened at security first. If you are disabled or have reduced mobility, you have a legal right to free help at UK airports, and this includes a temporary injury such as a broken leg in a cast. You can also take up to two items of mobility equipment free of charge, and they do not count towards your baggage allowance. The key is to ask your airline for assistance when you book, or at least 48 hours before you fly.

Key points

• Walking aids, including crutches, are usually allowed in the cabin, but must go through security screening.
• Free assistance is a legal right when flying from a UK airport on any airline, or to a UK airport on a UK or EU airline.
• You have this right because of a disability, your age, or a temporary illness or injury.
• Up to two items of mobility equipment travel free and do not count towards your baggage allowance.
• Ask for help when you book, or at least 48 hours before departure, and keep written confirmation.

Your rights when flying with crutches

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), the UK's aviation regulator, says that if you have a disability or reduced mobility you are legally entitled to free assistance when:

• flying from a UK airport on any airline, or
• flying to a UK airport on a UK or EU airline.

This is often called "special assistance" or "PRM assistance" (PRM stands for passengers with reduced mobility). GOV.UK says you also have this right because of your age or a temporary illness or injury, for example if you have broken your leg and it is in a cast. So you do not need a long-term disability to ask for help.

Assistance can cover moving through the departure airport, boarding, help during the flight, getting off the plane, transfers and getting through the arrival airport. The CAA says similar rights apply in the EU and the US, but not all countries offer assisted travel, and some may charge.

Airlines and airports have a duty of care to look after passengers' safety. If you are unhappy with the help you get, complain to the airline or airport first.

Planning ahead and booking assistance

The CAA advises asking for assistance when you book your tickets, or at least 48 hours before departure, through your airline, travel agent or tour operator. If you do not give notice, you may face delays or not get the support you need.

1. Look for an assistance link when you book online, or call the airline. Airlines must offer a free way to request help.
2. Be clear about what you need. For example, say if you can walk short distances on crutches but need a wheelchair for the long walk to the gate.
3. Ask questions, such as how far the walk is to the gate, and whether you will board by an air bridge or steps.
4. Ask for a suitable seat. Help to find a seat that suits your needs is part of your rights on the plane.
5. Get written confirmation of your assistance booking and keep it with you.

If you have a recent injury or operation, the airline may ask for proof that you are fit to fly, often a doctor's note. If you have a stable condition, there is generally no need for medical clearance. Check with your airline if you are unsure.

Going through airport security with crutches

GOV.UK says walking aids are usually allowed in the cabin, but need to be security screened first. Be ready to hand your crutches over for screening, and ask for a seat if you need one while you wait. Assistance staff can help you through security if you have booked help. Tell the security staff if you need to sit down or need extra time.

If you carry medicines, liquid medicines over 100ml are allowed in hand luggage if they are essential, but you will need proof they are prescribed to you, such as a letter from your doctor or a copy of your prescription. Tablets do not need proof.

Just as family carers know, asking for help early makes the day much less stressful.

Getting around the airport

A big airport can mean very long walks. Using crutches the whole way can leave you tired before you board. Assistance can include:

1. Help from the car park, bus stop or drop-off point to the terminal. Look for an assistance point, which usually has a disability symbol and a buzzer or phone.
2. An airport wheelchair to get you to the gate, even if you can walk short distances on crutches.
3. Help at check-in, bag drop and security.

If you have a Blue Badge, check your airport's website for disabled parking and drop-off arrangements before you travel, as these vary.

Boarding the plane

Assistance staff can help you move through the departure gate, board the plane using lifts, ramps or transfer wheelchairs, reach your seat and stow your bags. Boarding procedures vary by airline and airport, so tell the gate staff you use crutches and have booked assistance.

Like care workers, assistance staff are there to help you safely while respecting your dignity. If you need help with eating, taking medicine or using the toilet, you may need to travel with a companion, as airline staff are not expected to help with these.

Where your crutches go during the flight

Cabin crew will tell you where your crutches can be stored, as this varies by airline and aircraft. Folding or telescopic crutches can be easier to store. Ask the crew when you board how to get them back during the flight, for example to go to the toilet. The airline should help you move to the toilet if needed, and most airlines carry an onboard wheelchair.

Long flights with crutches

Long flights can be harder after a leg injury. The NHS says that if you are travelling for 4 hours or more by plane, you can lower your chance of a blood clot (deep vein thrombosis, or DVT) by:

• wearing loose clothing
• drinking plenty of water
• avoiding alcohol
• walking around when possible

The NHS lists recent surgery and long journeys among the things that raise your chance of DVT. Ask your GP or hospital team before you fly. If you are being treated for DVT, the NHS advises delaying flights until at least 2 weeks after you start blood-thinning medicine. Keep any medicines you need in your hand luggage.

Tips for a more comfortable trip

1. Wear comfortable slip-on shoes and loose clothes that are easy to manage at security.
2. Ask for a seat that suits your injury, for example an aisle seat so you can get up more easily.
3. Pack light. It is hard to carry bags on crutches, so use a small backpack or ask for help with bags.
4. Allow extra time at check-in.
5. Check your travel insurance covers your injury and your mobility equipment. The CAA says airline compensation for damaged mobility equipment is often limited to around £1,300.

Frequently asked questions

Do crutches count as hand luggage?

No. You can take up to two items of mobility equipment free of charge, and they do not count as part of your baggage allowance.

Can I get a wheelchair at the airport if I use crutches?

Yes. Using an airport wheelchair to get to the gate is part of the assistance service. Book it with your airline when you book your flight, or at least 48 hours before you fly.

Do I need a doctor's letter to fly on crutches?

Not usually. If you have a stable condition, there is generally no need for medical clearance. If the airline has concerns, it may ask you to fill in a form or give medical proof, often a doctor's note. If you have had recent surgery, check with your airline before you book.

Can I get crutches at my destination instead?

It is usually easier to bring your own. If you were given crutches by the NHS, ask the hospital or physiotherapy team if there is anything you need to know before travelling with them.

What if my crutches are lost or damaged?

Tell the airline straight away, before you leave the airport. The CAA says that if your equipment is damaged, the airport must provide a temporary alternative, although it may not be the same. Airlines are liable for damage, but compensation is often limited, so consider extra insurance.

Can I board first if I use crutches?

Ask for assistance when you book. Help to board the plane is part of your rights. Ask the airline how and when assisted passengers board. Using crutches does not give you a seat upgrade.

Sources

• Your accessibility rights (Civil Aviation Authority)
• How to access help and support (Civil Aviation Authority)
• Travelling with medicines, mobility and medical equipment (Civil Aviation Authority)
• Getting medical clearance to fly (Civil Aviation Authority)
• Transport support services for disabled people: planes (GOV.UK)
• Hand luggage restrictions at UK airports (GOV.UK)
• Deep vein thrombosis (NHS)