Just because you are using supplementary Oxygen doesn’t mean to say that life has to stop. More people than ever before are travelling and not letting their disability get in the way. Whether it be domestically or internationally, by car, by plane or by boat, with a portable oxygen concentrator you really can live life without boundaries.
In this article we collated a list of airlines and cruise ships including useful links and travel tips of our own if you intend travelling abroad with Oxygen.
Although we will look to keep the list below updated as best as we can, we are never notified automatically of any changes. Therefore, the information published below should be used as a guide only and we always recommend you contact your travel agent/airline/cruise provider prior to making any travel arrangements.
Traveling by Air
As a general rule of thumb, most major airlines are quite accommodating to those who bring their own oxygen concentrator on board. Some airlines are only able to carry a certain number of people with a disabling condition. Therefore, it is always recommended to make the airline aware of your condition and that you will be facilitating your own oxygen arrangements before making any bookings.
The main pre-requisite of anyone intending on using a POC onboard an aircraft is that the battery life should cover at least 150% of the overall flight time irrespective if the aircraft provides a power outlet or not. This mitigates for any risk of delays. It is also recommended you leave enough battery life to cover the time at the departure terminal and for when you arrive at the destination airport.
Our range of portable oxygen concentrators are FAA Airline Approved.
Below is a list of major airlines along with information that we’ve collated together with direct links to their website (if available).
Airline
POCs Permitted
Notes
Link
Virgin Atlantic
YES
You are required to complete two forms – one declaring battery usage and a MEDIF form before you travel. You are not permitted to take your own cylinders.
Medical certification required. Oxygen cylinders exceeding 50cm in length and 25cm diameter not permitted. Limited to two cylinders only. Liquid oxygen not permitted.
Oxygen concentrators are generally permitted on board ferries and cruise liners. You may need to present a medical letter at security. Power rating on board may vary. All of our portable oxygen concentrators are able to be powered on a 110 to 240v, 50 to 60hz power rating.