8 tips for flying with spinal muscular atrophy

Last updated Oct. 7, 2025, by Patricia Weiser, PharmD

Planning

Packing

If you have spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), air travel often requires extra planning. From navigating crowded airports to ensuring your equipment is handled with care, the process can be stressful.

With just a few disability travel hacks and some preparation, you can avoid complicating SMA and air travel. These flying with SMA tips cover everything from booking accessible seating to packing smart, managing fatigue, and knowing your rights as a traveler.

1. Plan your seating and mobility needs in advance

Seating and mobility arrangements can make or break your travel experience. Thinking ahead about where you’ll sit, how you’ll transfer, and what support you’ll need on the plane helps prevent last-minute stress and makes flying with SMA more comfortable.

Contact the airline’s accessibility desk

Every airline has its own accessibility policies and guidance. Before you book, ask about wheelchair assistance, accessible seating, and mobility device storage.

As your departure date approaches, confirm your flight details in case the airline has made any changes that affect your needs.

Research the airport layout so you know where to find restrooms, information desks, and boarding gates. The same thing applies to your destination airport or layovers. Being informed about where you’re going helps reduce stress and saves time navigating airports with SMA.

Get seating assignments confirmed early

Many airlines offer accessible seating, early boarding, and other accommodations for travelers with disabilities. Contact your airline to inform them of your needs a few days before your flight, and check in early to ensure smooth boarding and seating.

Additionally, think about your needs when it comes to seating assignments, especially for long flights. Aisle seats offer more space and easier access to transfer from a wheelchair, stretch, or communicate with flight staff. If your budget allows, book a seat with more space or pay to upgrade to a confirmed seat in the section you want.

2. Pack smart with TSA and in-flight needs in mind

From packing cubes to comfort kits, organizing your essentials strategically can help reduce stress at security checkpoints and make your time in the air much smoother.

Use packing cubes for quick access to essentials

Packing cubes help organize and separate must-haves so you can easily find what you need. You’ll want to have packing cubes in your carry-on or personal bag (not checked luggage) for easy access to:

medications, in clearly labeled containers
medical documents
passports and IDs
keys, cash, and any valuables like jewelry.

Bring a carry-on ‘comfort kit’

Include items that support both comfort and access, such as:

tracking devices for wheelchairs or walkers to locate important equipment
pillows or posture support cushions
stools for leg comfort
your preferred snacks, especially if you have dietary restrictions or food allergies
noise-canceling headphones or soothing sensory items.

Know TSA’s rules for medical liquids and devices

Read up on TSA rules as you pack to help make the screening process easier. Complete guidance can be found on the TSA website, but here are a few key tips:

Put medications in a separate bin for inspection and declare any liquid medications, which are exempt from the 3-1-1 rule.
Assistive devices generally don’t count toward your carry-on limit, but they may be stored in the cargo hold, so avoid putting essential personal items in any bags that carry or attach to your assistive devices (doing so may also incur extra fees).
For oxygen devices or power wheelchairs, you may need to contact your airline at least 48 hours before your flight.

3. Prep your medical documents and prescriptions

Having the right paperwork can save time and reduce hassle at security and boarding gates. Make it a point to:

bring a doctor’s letter (digital and physical copies) to validate your medical devices and support requests for accommodations
keep medications in their original labeled prescription bottles or packaging.

4. Know your rights and airline policies

One of the best disability travel tips is knowing your rights. Airlines are required to offer reasonable accommodations under the Air Carrier Access Act.

For instance, airlines must set aside space for one manual folding wheelchair on planes with 100 or more seats. They must also allow you to board early to ensure your device is safely stowed.

It’s also a good idea to take a photo of your devices before your flight in case of damage during transit.

Finally, before your flight, let TSA know what type of battery your mobility device uses, as lithium-ion batteries must be removed, declared, and carried on. Arrive early in case screening these items takes extra time.

5. Use communication cards or notes to reduce stress

Clear, written communication can be especially helpful when you’re managing multiple needs while traveling.

Use apps or laminated cards to communicate dietary needs or support instructions with staff.
Pre-write key instructions or needs, including instructions for mobility device storage, assembly, and handling precautions.
Carry emergency contact information.

6. Request preboarding (and don’t rush disembarking)

Ask to preboard so you have unhurried time to stow belongings, adjust your space, and settle in.

Let the gate attendant know if you’ll need any assistance during the flight or when getting off the plane so they can coordinate with the cabin crew. When you land, take your time; moving at your own pace can reduce stress and help prevent injuries.

7. Prepare for time zone and fatigue adjustments

Fatigue affects many people with SMA, and it can be both mental and physical. Travel can worsen fatigue because of disrupted routines and crossing time zones. Try these tips:

Pick flight times that match your energy peaks and factor in time zone changes
Stay hydrated
Start shifting your sleep schedule a day or two before you go
Ask your healthcare provider if you should adjust medication timing while traveling
Plan light days before and after flights so you have time to rest.

8. Lean on your support system and ask for help

Accessible travel with SMA is easier when you’re not doing it alone. Divide responsibilities when traveling with others. Let travel companions handle tasks, such as asking questions, lifting bags, or checking schedules.

Consider also using social media groups for airline-specific tips. These communities can offer personal reviews, airline-specific experiences, and practical advice for travelers with disabilities.

Don’t be afraid to advocate at every step

You have rights, and you deserve to be treated with dignity. Speak up if your needs aren’t being met. If possible, let staff know in the moment how they can fix an issue to better help you.

After an incident, you can file a complaint with the airline, the Department of Transportation, or the Federal Aviation Administration.

Final thoughts

Flying with SMA may take extra planning, but it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. From securing the right seat to packing smart, preparing your documents, and leaning on your support system, every step helps create a smoother journey.

Following these SMA travel tips can help give you the confidence to navigate airports, advocate for your needs, and enjoy your time in the air.

SMA News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.