Oxygen concentrators are medical devices that supply oxygen to users who need additional oxygen due to a medical condition. They are portable and can be used at home, in the car, and on airplanes.
Air travel with oxygen concentrators is generally safe and straightforward, but there are a few regulations and guidelines that travellers need to be aware of. These regulations and guidelines are in place to ensure the safety of all passengers on board the aircraft.
Important Regulations for Air Travel with Oxygen Concentrators
Airlines have varying criteria for oxygen concentrators, so check with the airline you will be flying with to see what theirs are. Most airlines demand that oxygen concentrators be FAA-approved and have enough battery life to last the duration of the flight.
FAA Regulations
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has regulations in place for the use of oxygen concentrators on airplanes.
One of the FAA’s requirements for oxygen concentrators is that they must be FAA-approved. This means that the oxygen concentrator has been tested and approved by the FAA for use on airplanes.
Another FAA requirement for oxygen concentrators is that they must have a battery life that is sufficient for the duration of the flight. The oxygen concentrator must be able to operate on battery power for at least 150% of the flight time.
The oxygen concentrator must be stowed securely during take-off, landing, and taxiing, and it must not obstruct the aisle or access to emergency equipment.
TSA Regulations
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) also has regulations for air travel with oxygen concentrators. These regulations include:
- The oxygen concentrator must be declared at the security checkpoint.
- The oxygen concentrator may be inspected by TSA officers.
- The oxygen concentrator may be transported through the security checkpoint in a carry-on bag or in a checked bag.
Specific Airline Requirements
Airlines have their own requirements for oxygen concentrators on airplanes, which vary from airline to airline, so it is important to confirm with the airline you will be flying with what their requirements are.
Some airlines require that oxygen concentrators be stored under the seat in front of the user. Other airlines allow oxygen concentrators to be stored in the overhead bin. Some airlines require that oxygen concentrators be turned off during take-off and landing, while other airlines allow them to be used.
Choose an Oxygen Concentrator Appropriate for Air Travel
Some oxygen concentrators are not allowed on aeroplanes while others are. For confirmation that their oxygen concentrator meets safety standards, passengers should verify with the company that manufactured it or with their airline. The websites of most airlines include a list of oxygen concentrators that have been given the green light for travel.
Notify the Airline in Time
Travelers who need to use an oxygen concentrator on board an aircraft must notify the airline in advance. This is usually done at the time of booking or at least 72 hours before the flight.
You must provide documentation from your doctor stating that you need to use an oxygen concentrator and how much oxygen you need.
Pack your oxygen concentrator in a carry-on bag so that you have access to it at all times and pack extra batteries and supplies as well as your documentation from your doctor.
Important Documentation from Your Doctor You May Need
You will be required to present evidence from your physician saying that you are required to utilise an oxygen concentrator and the amount of oxygen that you require. When you book your flight or check in for your flight, the airline will normally request that you provide this documents.
In addition, the following information should be included in the documentation that your doctor provides:
- The type of oxygen concentrator you will be using
- The amount of oxygen you need
- Any other medical conditions you have
- Any medications you are taking
Follow All Safety Precautions During the Flight
Once on board the aircraft, travellers must follow the safety instructions of the flight crew. This includes stowing the oxygen concentrator securely during take-off, landing, and taxiing.
Tips for safe air travel with an oxygen concentrator:
- Make sure that your oxygen concentrator is FAA approved and that it has enough battery power to last for the duration of your flight.
- Confirm that the airline staff and all flight attendants on board know that you will be using an oxygen concentrator on board the aircraft.
- It is a good idea to have a spare battery for your oxygen concentrator in case of delays or unexpected events.
- Pack your oxygen concentrator in a sturdy carrying case and make sure that it is well-protected.
- Follow the airline’s requirements and the staff’s instructions for the use of oxygen concentrators on board.
- Store your oxygen concentrator under the seat in front of you or in the overhead bin, depending on the airline’s requirements.
- Turn off your oxygen concentrator during take-off and landing, unless the airline allows you to use it during those times.
- Let your flight attendant help you whenever you require any help with the use of your oxygen concentrator.
