oxygen concentrator

Can You Fly with an Oxygen Tank?

By kelingmedical

Oxygen is a hassle for the respiratory-limited passenger especially with oxygen tanks aboard planes. Here’s an article to learn if you can fly with an oxygen tank, what the rules are, and alternatives for getting on the air safely.

1. Are There Flights You Can Fly With An Oxygen Tank?

Generally, you cannot carry a traditional oxygen tank in the cabin, because it’s not safe. Oxygen tanks are pressurized and they may be dangerous during flight, therefore most airlines don’t allow them as carry-on luggage.

But oxygen tanks can, in some instances, be checked in for passengers, but that too is limited in size, pressure and packing configuration. : Call the airline in advance to find out what their oxygen tanks policies are on airplanes.

2. We Don’t Allow Oxygen Tanks In The Cabin.

The main reason why oxygen tanks aren’t allowed in the cabin is that they can be dangerous in case of fire. The oxygen tanks are high-pressured gas so they may blow up in fire or in extreme circumstances. That’s why airlines restrict onboard oxygen tanks, and recommend passengers instead opt for portable oxygen concentrators (POCs).

3. What About Other Oxygen Equipment?

O2 tanks are limited but POCs are a permissible alternative for passengers requiring extra oxygen while flying. They are not pressurised gas-powered, so you can wear them in your plane. Rather, portable oxygen concentrators draw oxygen from the air around you and then provide it to you (the safer alternative to plane oxygen).

4. Airline-Approved Oxygen Equipment

You have to carry oxygen on a device that is certified by the airline. Auxiliary oxygen concentrators for passengers requiring oxygen therapy aboard aircrafts are light, small and easy to transport. The most common types of respiratory equipment used by the airlines are devices such as Inogen One G5, Caire Freestyle Comfort and Respironics SimplyGo.

5. Traveling with Oxygen: The Process

A few of the most important things to know when taking oxygen on a flight:

Tell the airline: Give the airline at least 48-72 hours notice that you plan to travel with oxygen. And they’ll tell you if your personal oxygen concentrator will suit them.
Device compatibility: Make sure your oxygen concentrator is compatible with the airline.
Have enough battery power: Airlines generally want you to have enough battery power for the entire flight plus an hour or two in case of a delay.
Carry your device in the cabin: Your portable oxygen concentrator should be kept in the cabin when you fly and never placed in the hold.

Conclusion

O2 tanks cannot be transported aboard aircrafts for safety reasons, but passengers can still carry oxygen through portable oxygen concentrators. If passengers choose an airline certified concentrator, inform the airline ahead of time, and abide by all regulations, their flights can be safe and easy. If you’re a distributor, selling the right oxygen concentrators for flight can give your customers more comfort and ease of mind during travel.

Interested in portable oxygen concentrators for flying? Get in touch with us to get product recommendations and advice.

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