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Flying Guidelines Using Portable Oxygen Concentrator
Flying with a Portable Oxygen Concentrator: FAA Rules, Battery Tips & Travel Checklist
Quick Answer: Can You Fly with a Portable Oxygen Concentrator?
Flying with a portable oxygen concentrator is possible when you prepare your device, batteries, airline documents, and travel plan before departure. This guide summarizes the most important FAA, TSA, and airline requirements in a simple, traveler-friendly format.
And, Yes. Most passengers can fly with a portable oxygen concentrator if the device is FAA-compliant, accepted by the airline, and powered by enough batteries for the flight.
| Requirement | What You Need to Do |
|---|---|
| FAA-compliant POC | Check for FAA approval label or accepted model list |
| Airline notice | Contact your airline before flying |
| Batteries | Bring enough for at least 150% of flight time |
| TSA screening | Keep POC and batteries accessible |
| Seat rules | Do not sit in an exit row |
| Oxygen tanks | Usually not allowed for personal use onboard |
Before You Fly: Portable Oxygen Concentrator Checklist
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Confirm your POC is FAA-compliant |
| 2 | Call the airline 48–72 hours before departure |
| 3 | Ask if medical forms are required |
| 4 | Bring enough batteries for 150% of flight time |
| 5 | Pack batteries in your carry-on bag |
| 6 | Protect battery terminals |
| 7 | Bring charger, power cords, and accessories |
| 8 | Arrive early for TSA screening |
| 9 | Keep prescription or doctor’s note available |
| 10 | Plan oxygen support at your destination |
FAA Rules for Portable Oxygen Concentrators
The FAA allows certain portable oxygen concentrators on aircraft when they meet safety requirements. Newer devices usually include a label stating that the manufacturer has determined the unit meets FAA acceptance criteria for use onboard aircraft.
Look for a label similar to:
“The manufacturer of this POC has determined this device conforms to all applicable FAA acceptance criteria for POC carriage and use on board aircraft.”
If your device is older and does not have this label, it may still be accepted if it appears on the FAA-approved list of older portable oxygen concentrators.
Example Of Requiered POC Tag
Battery Requirements for Flying with a Portable Oxygen Concentrator
150% of the expected flight time.
| Flight Time | Recommended Battery Time |
|---|---|
| 2 hours | At least 3 hours |
| 4 hours | At least 6 hours |
| 6 hours | At least 9 hours |
| 8 hours | At least 12 hours |
Do not depend on airplane outlets. Airlines are not required to provide power for your portable oxygen concentrator.
How to Pack POC Batteries
| Do | Avoid |
|---|---|
| Pack batteries in carry-on | Do not pack spare batteries loose |
| Protect battery terminals | Do not let contacts touch metal |
| Use battery covers or cases | Do not rely on aircraft power |
| Bring extra backup power | Do not bring too few batteries |
TSA Screening Tips
Before security:
| TSA Tip | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Tell the officer you have a medical device | Helps avoid delays |
| Keep batteries and charger together | Easier inspection |
| Bring prescription or doctor’s note | Useful if questions arise |
| Ask for assistance if needed | Especially if you cannot disconnect |
Airline Notification and Medical Forms
Even if FAA rules do not always require advance notice, most airlines recommend or require that you notify them before traveling with a POC.
Ask your airline:
| Question | Why to Ask |
|---|---|
| Is my POC model accepted? | Not every device is allowed |
| Do I need a medical form? | Some airlines require one |
| How many batteries do I need? | Battery rules may vary |
| Can I use it during takeoff and landing? | Airline policies differ |
| Where should I sit? | Exit rows are usually not allowed |
Some airlines may ask for a physician statement confirming your oxygen flow needs and your ability to respond to device alarms.
Can You Bring Oxygen Tanks on a Plane?
Usually, no. Personal compressed oxygen tanks and liquid oxygen containers are generally not allowed for passenger use onboard commercial aircraft.
For most travelers who need oxygen during a flight, an FAA-compliant portable oxygen concentrator is the best option.
Renting a Portable Oxygen Concentrator for Air Travel
Renting a portable oxygen concentrator may be a good solution if:
| Situation | Why Renting Helps |
|---|---|
| Your home oxygen system is not portable | A rental POC is travel-friendly |
| Your current POC is not FAA-compliant | You can rent an accepted model |
| You need more battery life | Rentals may include extra batteries |
| You only need it for one trip | Avoids buying a new unit |
| Your device is too heavy | Travel models are easier to carry |
Before renting, confirm that the unit is FAA-compliant and includes enough batteries for your itinerary.
Final Travel Tips
Flying with a portable oxygen concentrator is easier when you plan early. Call your airline before the flight, verify your device, bring enough batteries, and arrive early for TSA screening.
Before traveling, speak with your healthcare provider about your oxygen needs during flight. Cabin pressure can affect oxygen levels, and your usual oxygen setting may need to be reviewed.
At American Oxygen, we help patients and caregivers find portable oxygen concentrators for travel, daily use, and rental needs.
Approved Portable Oxygen Concentrators
List
Some older FAA-recognized models include:
| Brand / Model |
|---|
| AirSep Focus |
| AirSep FreeStyle |
| AirSep FreeStyle 5 |
| AirSep LifeStyle |
| DeVilbiss Healthcare iGo |
| Inogen One |
| Inogen One G2 |
| Inogen One G3 |
| Inova Labs LifeChoice |
| Inova Labs LifeChoice Activox |
| Invacare Solo2 |
| Invacare XPO2 |
| Oxlife Independence |
| Precision Medical EasyPulse |
| Respironics EverGo |
| Respironics SimplyGo |
| SeQual Eclipse |
| SeQual SAROS |
| VBox Trooper |
Important: Always confirm directly with your airline before flying. Airline policies can vary.
FAQs
Can I fly with a portable oxygen concentrator?
Yes. You can fly with many portable oxygen concentrators if the device is FAA-compliant and accepted by your airline.
How many batteries do I need for a flight?
Most airlines require enough battery power for at least 150% of the expected flight time.
Can I plug my POC into the airplane outlet?
Do not depend on airplane power. Bring enough batteries for the full trip.
Does a POC count as carry-on luggage?
Portable oxygen concentrators are medical devices. In many cases, they do not count against standard carry-on limits, but you should confirm with your airline.
Can I bring oxygen tanks on a plane?
Usually no. Personal compressed oxygen tanks are generally not allowed for passenger use onboard commercial aircraft.