Flying with CPAP

[gac914]

I'm relatively new to CPAP, and am planning a flight in a short while. What should I expect when it comes to carrying my machine on board? (I don't feel like checking it in my stored luggage.)

I've ordered the bag tag (https://www.cpap.com/productpage/medica ... pment.html) from CPAP.com that gives the DOT and TSA rules on carrying on board, and not being considered as part of your carry-on bags. Who has traveled out there, and what has been experiences or problems have you encountered?? (Flying on Southwest Airlines, if that makes any difference.)

[brazospearl]

You're smart to carry your equipment instead of checking it because those checked bags aren't handled gently, and checked bags don't always end up at the same destination as the folks that checked them. I've flown Southwest a couple of times since I've been on the hose, and I haven't had anybody question me about carrying my machine with me, and it's in a bag separate from my "regular" carry-on. Keep all your cpap gear in a bag by itself, not with your laptop or underwear or hygiene items. Until recently, the cpap would be swabbed for explosive residue, but that policy appears to be changing. Just to be safe, DO NOT handle your equipment after using any kind of lotion because many lotions contain glycerine, which tests positive for explosive residue, which presents problems you don't want. I always wipe mine down with a sanitizing wipe before I pack it up. Just open the bag for the security screening; the agents have seen LOTS of cpaps, you'll be fine! Enjoy your trip!

[LinkC]

You will have NO problems carrying it on. TSA and Airline personnel are very familiar with CPAP now. At some airports, TSA will want the machine out of the case so they can "swab" it for explosives. Reports are coming in that some airports are no longer requiring that.

It is unlikely they will even question your "extra" carryon. However, I have found if you approach the gate agent before boarding begins, your CPAP will get you "pre-boarding" so you can stow your stuff directly over you, keeping it near you.

Bon voyage!!!

[PST]

And if your CPAP bag is an "extra," beyond the usual limit of one carry-on and one purse/briefcase/etc., remember not to use it for anything except CPAP gear. Throwing a few non-medical items in the bag may make some airlines view the bag as not qualifying for exceptional treatment.

[cortez356]

I flew Delta on Wednesday and had no problems. They did not open the bag or question me on the # of carryons. I am sure you will be just fine. NEVER pack it in your luggage. Good chance it will be broken when you arrive.

Bob

[SleepyInChicago]

I flew Delta on Wednesday and had no problems. They did not open the bag or question me on the # of carryons. I am sure you will be just fine. NEVER pack it in your luggage. Good chance it will be broken when you arrive.

Bob

I Think it really depends on the flight crew...I had *major* problems with Delta at times (other times, no problems). Could be that I tend to be on 'rush hour' business flights that are already at capacity.

Biggest advice...keep the TSA sheet outlining it is OK to carry and not count towards carry on allowance, and doctor's script/medical needs with you. If the flight crew asks or hassles, you have the right to ask for the 'CRO' of the airline (complaint resolution officer). The airline is obligated to contact them if you ask (FAA rules). But remember, the flight crew can end up being ultimate authority, so be firm, but nice. You might end up winning in the end but can get booted from that flight.

[cflame1]

I've only had difficulty with "puddle jumper" flights... commuter planes between cities... in my case usually the one between Denver and Des Moines is the one that gives me grief.

When they get it to the point that you're only allowed 1 carryon, they get a little stricter about making sure what you're carrying on.

[slumber]

I've been flying with my CPAP for almost three years and never had any problems. I always take the machine out of the case and place it in the plastic tub along with the case. The case has my headgear, hose, electrical extension cord, and a small bottle of dish-washing soap that I use to clean the nasal pillow. Also, I never have been questioned about an extra carry-on. If you happen to fly in Europe, you'll find that they don't allow your CPAP to be exempt from the carry-on policy--at least that's what I found out after a transatlantic cruise a couple of years ago coming back from Barcelona, Spain. I have hard luggage, so packing it wasn't much of a concern.

[dtsm]

Most if not all the airlines now include on their website a written policy to cover medical equipment, disabilities, etc. It is best to double check the airlines you're flying, and print out their policy just in case the flight crew isn't as 'educated'. The medical tag and doctor's Rx will also be helpful but at the end of the day, if the website says yes, even the flight crew can't argue with it.

[rad3766]

I have flown twice since starting with CPAP in December; I had no issues, the machine comes out of the carry case at the security check, everything else stays in the clear pouch in the cases cover to which I have taped on the folllowing note: "Please DO NOT touch my MEDICAL equipment without putting on NEW GLOVES. THANKS."
Everything gets a disinfecting wipe at my destination.
There was an extensive thread about flying with our machines at http://www.flyertalk.com

[dtsm]

There was an extensive thread about flying with our machines at http://www.flyertalk.com

This is the flyertalk.com thread[s] http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/disability-travel-224/

But there is more written on cpaptalk.com - you just have to search for all the threads

[billbolton]

but at the end of the day, if the website says yes, even the flight crew can't argue with it.

If there is a perceived air safety issue, air crew certainly can/will make decisions based on maintaining air safety, and let the airline work out any policy issues later

Cheers,

Bill

[Geminidream]

Good topic....I have never flown but we are planning on taking a cruise next year and will have to fly (nervous about the first time) to Tampa for it so I am storing this info for future use!

[dtsm]

but at the end of the day, if the website says yes, even the flight crew can't argue with it.

If there is a perceived air safety issue, air crew certainly can/will make decisions based on maintaining air safety, and let the airline work out any policy issues later

Cheers,

Bill

Another argumentative post Bill....

[billbolton]

Another argumentative post Bill....

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/15472955-post10.html