flying with cpap machines

rocket · Post by **rocket** » Fri Mar 30, 2007 9:12 am

Going overseas this month can you take your cpap machine on airlines with you to be used. lf not what do l do can you please help me .thank you

sybert1ger · Post by **sybert1ger** » Fri Mar 30, 2007 11:30 am

I travel quite a bit for work and have not had any trouble bringing my APAP with me. Most TSA workers even know what they are. The most hassle I've had was simply a little extra screening.

I haven't traveled over seas but I don't imagine it being much more difficult. For some peace of mind you can get your prescription and a note from your Dr.

Linda3032 · Post by **Linda3032** » Fri Mar 30, 2007 11:33 am

If you are asking about using a cpap machine during the long flight, the I think you need to contact the airline. Some airlines will allow use of a battery operated cpap machine.

Sleepy-eyes · Post by **Sleepy-eyes** » Fri Mar 30, 2007 1:52 pm

What Linda said. But also, be sure to check with them to see if they will actually count the machine as a carry-on item. Some airlines do and some don't..........even though Federal Regulations say they can't! Here's a link to the regulation. Look it up and print it out to carry it with you if you anticipate a problem.

Fed Reg #CFR382.41, Carriers shall not, in implementing their carry-on baggage policies, count toward a limit on carry-on items any assistive device brought into the cabin by a qualified individual with a disability.

Linda3032 · Post by **Linda3032** » Fri Mar 30, 2007 2:28 pm

The Federal regulations apply to all domestic flights, but not necessarily to international flights. So be sure to check with your international airline regarding carry-on equipment. I would advise doing so via email so you have a written response.

Sleepy-eyes · Post by **Sleepy-eyes** » Fri Mar 30, 2007 2:55 pm

Good point, Linda. Never thought of that.

MartiniLover · Post by **MartiniLover** » Fri Mar 30, 2007 4:24 pm

I have for several years packed my machine in the suitcase, and checked it. Stupid me.

I am now the owner of a new machine due to my old machine dieing when I turned it on after flying.

WARNING: HAND CARRY ONLY

PhotoDude · Post by **PhotoDude** » Fri Mar 30, 2007 5:55 pm

Just returned from my first airline trip with my CPAP. Began using it about two weeks ago, and usually make a trip a week. Last week I got to drive so that didn't matter. Both outbound and inbound the TSA "sniffed" for explosive residue, but that was the extent of it. I'm glad I read the above though, because I was actually thinking about packing mine in my checked luggage next time, and had convinced myself it wouldn't be stupid to do that. It's sometimes inconvenient to carry, but I guess that's what I'll be doing!

RichCMH · Post by **RichCMH** » Fri Mar 30, 2007 6:31 pm

I am almost positive that any airline that serves any city in the US must obey the Federal Regulations. That would put any flight from/to the US under those Regs.

betty303 · Post by **betty303** » Fri Mar 30, 2007 9:37 pm

Chris - Sleepy-Eyes

I have not been able to find the Federal Regulation that you mentioned. Do you have a link to it?

Thanks

Linda3032 · Post by **Linda3032** » Fri Mar 30, 2007 9:45 pm

Here are 3 sites with regs and info:

viewtopic.php?t=3142&highlight=faa and
http://airconsumer.ost.dot.gov/rules/20011029.htm and
viewtopic/t17374/A-few-travel-questions.html

betty303 · Post by **betty303** » Fri Mar 30, 2007 10:09 pm

Thanks Linda

I still haven't found the quote listed above about the carry-on being counted in the number you are allowed. Did I miss it?

MartiniLover · Post by **MartiniLover** » Sat Mar 31, 2007 7:04 am

http://airconsumer.ost.dot.gov/rules/20011029.htm

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Sat Mar 31, 2007 9:57 am

I DID miss it - thanks

Mask