Changes to the Use of Respiratory Equipment on Airlines

New regulations for the Air Carriers Access Act, 49 USC §41705 (2009), became effective on May 13, 2009. These regulations should help patients who require supplemental oxygen, CPAP, or noninvasive ventilation while flying, but there may be some growing pains as equipment manufacturers and airlines respond to the changes. As described in the summer 2009 issue of "Ventilator-Assisted Living," airlines are now required to allow individuals with disabilities to use portable oxygen concentrators, ventilators, or CPAP machines. However, the devices need to meet Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) guidelines and need to have a label from the manufacturer indicating that it meets FAA guidelines. Unfortunately, these regulations have gone into effect before manufacturers have been able to obtain the correct labeling. As such, a carrier can refuse to allow a passenger to use a device that does not have the correct FAA-approved label. Additionally, carriers may require 48 hours notice from passengers who plan to use an approved device or who may require early check-in.

Submitted by:
Noah Lechtzin, MD, FCCP
Vice-Chair, Home Care NetWork