Five Steps for Successful Flying with Oxygen
If you need to fly with oxygen due to chronic lung disease or for any other reason, here are the steps you should take: a medical emergency at altitude can be very disruptive, and for those with respiratory issues, it could be life-threatening. The lower oxygen levels in a pressurized cabin can cause even people who do not typically require supplemental oxygen to need it while flying. Therefore, taking precautionary measures before boarding is essential.
Consult your Healthcare Provider
Consult your healthcare provider to see if it is safe for you to fly and if your oxygen flow needs to be increased during the flight. To make the process simpler, you can ask them for a High-Altitude Simulations Test (HAST) or look for a facility that offers it. The machine simulates the atmosphere of an airplane cabin at 8,000 feet and gives you a prescription for oxygen intake while resting at altitude. Keep in mind that extra oxygen may be needed when moving around the plane.
2. Comply with the Airlines Rules and Coordinate
Flying with oxygen can be a breeze when you know the rules! Every airline has its own regulations, so make sure you do your research before you take off. Just type [(airline name) flying medical oxygen] into your search engine and you'll find the necessary information. You may need to fill out a form from the airline, or even a Medical Information Form (MEDIF) for international flights. To make things easier, you can get your pulmonary doctor to sign a form for the airlines you fly with most often, and those forms are usually valid for up to a year. Once you've booked your flight, call the airline's special services office to make sure you've noted it on the manifest. And don't forget to choose a window seat - that way, your tubing won't be a hazard to other passengers. Following these steps will ensure a smooth and safe flight!
3. Portable Oxygen Concentrators Requirements
When it comes to flying, the only acceptable source of oxygen is a Portable Oxygen Concentrator (POC). But, don't wait until the last minute to get one – you'll want to familiarize yourself with its operation and effects before your trip. POCs range in size from 3 to 20 pounds and come in two types – continuous flow and pulse (on-demand) delivery. Your healthcare provider can help you decide which type is best for you.
It's also important to understand battery duration. Manufacturers will list the battery life based on a brand-new battery and a low setting – so remember it may be shorter if you're using a higher setting. Most airlines require you to have enough batteries to last 150% of the length of your trip at the required setting, or “plus 3 hours” for longer flights. You may be able to use the AC power outlet on the plane, but it's always best to plan to run the full duration of the flight on batteries.
If you're taking multiple flights, look for flights with long layovers. This gives you more time to recharge batteries between flights, and you may be able to negotiate with the airline's special services office to carry fewer batteries.
4. Check-In to the Airport Early
Traveling with special needs can be intimidating, but it doesn't have to be! Give yourself plenty of time to check in, and don't forget to bring all the necessary paperwork, including a doctor-signed airline medical form. Request a wheelchair assist when you check in to make navigating TSA a breeze. If you can walk without oxygen, walk through the detector and send your POC through the X-ray machine. But if you're in a wheelchair, you'll need to undergo a body search and have your wheelchair and equipment examined.
When you get to the gate, plug in the POC to top off the battery. If there are no public outlets, you can usually find power at the check-in desk. Sit close to the check-in desk and introduce yourself to the crew when they arrive. This way, you can make sure you can board early and possibly get an empty seat next to you for your equipment if the flight isn't full. Don't forget to take advantage of early boarding so you can find storage up above for your carry-on and get the POC set up.
5. While on the Plane
Once you're all set up, use your oximeter to make sure your oxygen levels are where they need to be. To save some battery power while you're on the ground and still at a lower altitude, you can adjust your oxygen levels accordingly. Just remember that if you're feeling good while sitting down, you'll probably need a higher setting when you head to the restroom. Don't be tempted to take off your oxygen mask for that quick trip down the aisle either - activity at higher altitudes will put a strain on your oxygen intake.
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