Connect
← Return to Traveling and flying with oxygen
Discussion
Traveling and flying with oxygen
Lung Health | Last Active: Jul 14, 2023 | Replies (28)Comment receiving replies
Good question about traveling with oxygen, @cognac. I moved your message to an existing conversation on the same topic. If you scroll through the discussion, you'll see that Steve posted a link with useful information.
I'm also tagging fellow Lung Health members @annabeyta @windwalker @dogwood928 @oliver22 and @loisblo to bring them into the discussion about flying, driving with oxygen and staying in supply when you arrive at your destination.
Replies to "Good question about traveling with oxygen, @cognac. I moved your message to an existing conversation on..."
Thank you for your help.
The airline rules about Oxygen and WCHR are all safety and health related...and backed by the FAA.
It is wise to let the airline know you need a wchr and O2 when you book your reservation. They will brief you and put a note with your reservation and on your ticket that will help get you through security and even get onto the flight first!
The crew working the flight will
also have your information.
You may have to pay for the airline Oxygen, but they will only typically charge you for the bottles you use...depending on the length of the flight.
I flew as a Flight Attendant for 35 years for NWA now Delta and also served on Safety & Health committee. I understand the safety issues well and served as Government Affairs Chair. We fly a lot and I keep up with the rules so I offer these suggestions. I hope this helps your travels go more smoothly.
Also, if you are flying to Mayo Clinic, for one Delta offers patients a deep round trip discount and dates can be changed without the “change fee”. But remember to ask questions when you book your flight! Booking 7 days or more before flying may reduce the air fare greatly.
linda
@llwortman, thanks for taking the time to respond. I'm planning on taking my own Oxygen this time, because I read some airlines don't offer individual Oxygen. But all your info is REALLY good to know, both for me and for any others who may be flying somewhere.
@dogwood928, I'm familiar with having machines delivered for use overnight, but that was within 150 miles from home. I don't know if my provider rents portable concentrators (not tanks), or not. But I'm definitely going to check. Thank you for taking the time to send me this info.
Connect
Call your oxygen provider and make all arrangements. You must rent a portable concentrator and enough batteries to last through the flight and until you reach your destination. They should be able to contact the oxygen provider where you will be staying and arrange oxygen delivery or pick-up. This has to be done at least 2 weeks in advance, because the portable concentrator has to be ordered. I hope this helps...safe and happy travels!