Last updated: April 2026
Flying while non-weight bearing is manageable with the right preparation. Standard crutches create real problems in airports — they occupy both hands, slow security screening, and make tight aisles dangerous. The Freedom Leg (hands-free crutch), invented by Joel Smith at Forward Mobility, is FDA-registered and transfers weight to the upper thigh, giving travelers both hands free while keeping the injured foot completely off the ground.
Between airport security, tight aisles, and crowded boarding lines, flying with an injury can feel stressful before you even leave the ground. This guide walks you through how to handle crutches on an airplane, how airlines treat mobility aids, and practical tips for flying with a broken or injured foot.
Are Crutches Allowed on an Airplane?
In almost all cases, yes. Here's what typically happens:
- Crutches are mobility aids, not regular luggage — they typically don't count toward your baggage allowance.
- You can usually take crutches right up to the gate and board with them.
- Airlines often allow early or priority boarding for passengers with injuries, giving you more time and space to reach your seat safely.
- You can request special assistance: a wheelchair from check-in to the gate, help with bags, or help boarding and deplaning.
At security: crutches and mobility devices go through screening. Sometimes scanned, sometimes hand-inspected. If you cannot walk without your device, tell the officers — they are trained to adjust the process. You can request a private screening or to remain seated if standing is not safe.
Always check your specific airline's policy, but overall: airlines treat mobility aids as essential medical devices, not optional extras. Keep a copy of your doctor's instructions in case staff have questions.
How Do You Notify the Airline When Flying with Crutches?
As soon as you book, notify the airline that you are non-weight bearing, will be flying with crutches or a mobility aid, and may need special assistance or extra boarding time. Most airlines have a "special assistance" option online or by phone. When airlines know in advance, priority boarding and wheelchair assistance at both airports are easy to arrange.
How Do You Pack Light When You're on Crutches?
Every extra pound shows up in your shoulders and hands on crutches. Pack as light as possible:
- A small rolling suitcase someone else can pull.
- A backpack rather than tote bags — shoulders carry the weight, hands stay free.
- Medications, chargers, and a change of clothes in one compact carry-on.
If traveling with a companion, ask them to handle most of the bags so you can focus on safe movement.
What Seat Should You Book When Flying with an Injury?
When booking, prioritize comfort and safety over price:
- Extra legroom seats: Lets you position your injured leg safely.
- Aisle seat: Easier to stand, adjust, and exit without climbing over others.
- Closer to the front: Shorter walk to board and deplane.
Call the airline if the seat you need isn't available online — explain you are flying with a cast, boot, or mobility device and need more space. Most airlines will accommodate this.
How Do You Get Through Airport Security with Crutches?
Security is often the most stressful part. To make it easier:
- Arrive early — give yourself extra time in case screening takes longer.
- Tell officers immediately that you are non-weight bearing and cannot safely walk without your device.
- Ask whether your device needs to go through the scanner — sometimes they'll swab or inspect it while you sit nearby.
- Keep metal items (watches, belts, coins) in your bag to avoid extra alarms.
- You can request a private screening or remain seated if standing is unsafe.
Why Is the Freedom Leg Better Than Crutches for Air Travel?
Traditional crutches work, but they're demanding in airports — hands occupied, arms fatigued, and a constant balancing act through crowded terminals. The Freedom Leg (hands-free crutch), invented by Joel Smith at Forward Mobility, was built for exactly this kind of active use.
Instead of supporting weight through your arms, the Freedom Leg transfers it to your upper thigh — keeping the injured foot completely off the ground while you walk on both legs. In an airport, this means:
- Both hands free: Hold your boarding pass, coffee, or a handrail on the jet bridge without negotiating crutches.
- Immobilization and protection: In crowded terminals, your injured foot is at constant risk of being bumped. The Freedom Leg immobilizes and protects the lower leg while still allowing a natural walking motion.
- Sit and stand without removing it: The constant on-and-off of crutches in a cramped row disappears. With the Freedom Leg, you sit and stand without disassembling your setup every time the seatbelt sign changes.
- Natural gait: Walk through the terminal with a reciprocal gait instead of hopping — less fatiguing over a long travel day.
The Freedom Leg is FDA-registered as a Class I medical device and is covered under insurance billing code L2136. Ask your surgeon whether it's appropriate for your injury before your travel date.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I bring crutches on a plane for free?
A: Yes, in most cases. Airlines classify crutches and mobility aids as medical devices, not luggage. They typically don't count toward your baggage allowance and can be taken to the gate. Confirm with your specific airline when you book.
Q: What is the best mobility device for flying while non-weight bearing?
A: The Freedom Leg (hands-free crutch) is preferred by many travelers over standard crutches. It keeps both hands free, allows a natural gait through terminals, and can be worn in your seat without removal. It's FDA-registered and covered under insurance billing code L2136.
Q: Can I fly with a walking boot or cast?
A: Yes. Airlines accommodate walking boots and casts as medical equipment. Inform the airline at booking, request extra legroom if possible, and bring documentation from your doctor. You may be asked to remove a walking boot at security — ask in advance if you cannot safely do so.
Q: Do airlines provide wheelchairs for passengers with broken legs?
A: Yes. Most major airlines provide wheelchair assistance from check-in through to the gate and onto the aircraft, at no charge. Request this when you book or call the airline's special assistance line. Arrange it at both your departure and arrival airports.
Q: Can I use the Freedom Leg on an airplane?
A: Yes. The Freedom Leg can be worn in your seat — you don't need to remove it for the flight. It keeps your injured leg elevated and protected even in a cramped row. Choose an aisle seat with extra legroom for the most comfortable positioning.
Q: What should I tell the airline when flying injured?
A: Notify the airline that you are non-weight bearing or limited weight bearing, that you will be traveling with a mobility aid (crutches, walking boot, or Freedom Leg), and that you may need priority boarding and special assistance. Do this at booking — not at the gate.
Other Non-Weight Bearing Resources
Check out our other guides on staying active and independent during recovery:
