Medical

Portable Oxygen Concentrator (POC)

Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POCs) are vital medical devices for passengers requiring respiratory support. These devices work by concentrating oxygen from ambient air, rather than storing or generating it. Passengers who depend on a POC while traveling must carry sufficient spare batteries in their carry-on baggage for the entire duration of the flight. It is mandatory to protect these batteries from damage and short circuit during transport to ensure safety.

Baggage Rules
Cabin Baggage ✓ Allowed
Checked Baggage ✓ Allowed
Packaging Requirement Spare batteries must be protected from short circuit, with terminals taped or individually packaged.

Safety Guide

1
1. Ensure your POC is approved by your airline. Each airline may have different policies regarding POC acceptance, so it's crucial to contact your airline for approval before your flight.
2
2. Carry spare batteries in your carry-on baggage. Bring enough spare batteries for the duration of the flight and any potential delays. Generally, battery capacity equivalent to at least 1.5 times the flight duration is recommended.
3
3. Protect spare batteries from short circuit. Protect battery terminals by taping them, placing them in individual plastic bags, or keeping them in their original packaging. Prevent batteries from coming into contact with each other or with metal objects.
4
4. Protect your POC and batteries from damage. Transport the device and batteries in a sturdy case that protects them from drops, crushing, or exposure to extreme temperatures.
5
5. Follow your airline's instructions for using the POC during the flight. Some airlines may require the device to be turned off during takeoff and landing.
6
6. Regularly check the battery life and charge status of your POC. Ensure all batteries are fully charged before your flight.
7
7. If necessary, carry a medical statement or prescription from your doctor for using your POC during the flight. This document can help airline personnel understand the medical necessity of your device.
8
8. Inform the flight crew that you are using a POC. Notify them when boarding or checking in to ensure any necessary arrangements can be made.

Frequently Asked Questions

A Portable Oxygen Concentrator (POC) is a medical device designed for individuals who require respiratory support. These devices operate by filtering and concentrating oxygen from the ambient air. Unlike oxygen tanks, they do not store or generate oxygen, but rather separate it from the existing air. This process ensures a continuous flow of oxygen to the user.

Yes, Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POCs) are generally permitted to be carried and used in the aircraft cabin. However, each airline may have specific rules and approval processes. Therefore, it is crucial to contact your airline before your flight to inform them of your POC's make and model and to obtain any necessary permissions. Some airlines may require your device to be FAA-approved or meet specific battery requirements.

You must always carry spare batteries for your POC in your carry-on baggage. It is vital to protect these batteries from short circuit; you can tape their terminals, place them in individual plastic bags, or keep them in their original packaging. It is recommended to have enough spare batteries for the duration of the flight and any potential delays, typically at least 1.5 times the flight duration. Prevent batteries from being damaged or coming into contact with metal objects.

Yes, there are specific requirements for using a POC during a flight. Your airline may request that the device be turned off during takeoff and landing, or that you sit in specific seats. Additionally, it is beneficial to inform the flight crew that you are using a POC and to carry a medical statement or prescription from your doctor. You should regularly check your device's battery life and ensure all batteries are fully charged before your flight.
This information is for guidance only. Your airline may apply different rules. Always check with your airline before travel.
Item Details
Item Name Portable Oxygen Concentrator (POC)
Category Medical