CPAP use in flight?

I just returned to Chicago on a very empty AA flight from London, and had the chance to ask a flight attendant in business class (significantly, every seat has a power port) about CPAP usage in flight.

The flight attendant has been working the Chicago-London-Chicago flights for quite some time (these are 777s, with many seats), and has seen exactly one (!) person using a CPAP machine. The flight to London is overnight.

I'd been lead by my sleep doc and the DME that CPAP usage on airplanes is very common; I've never seen it, and my observations have now been confirmed by a pretty reliable witness.

What is your experience with this?

I've been wondering about this myself. I fly regularly - and fall asleep within minutes on most flights. My biggest concern is not getting a great sleep - its the embarrassment factor of wondering how loudly I snore.

I fly cross U.S. and internationally at least 20 times a year - and I have never - not once - seen someone using a CPAP in business or coach. So - until it becomes more common - I'll probably avoid being the guy that kids point at.

On the other hand - a full face mask and a slightly demented expression could almost certainly keep the seat next to you open!

sundial wrote:
On the other hand - a full face mask and a slightly demented expression could almost certainly keep the seat next to you open!

To say NOTHING of the aerophagia inflight entertainment!