Connect with others who understand.

  •   Learn from expert-reviewed resources
  •   Real advice from people who’ve been there
  •   People who understand what you’re going through
Sign Up Log In
All Resources Treatments A-Z Personal Assistant Help Center Crisis
Powered By
Real members of myPHteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Is it safe to fly with pulmonary hypertension

A myPHteam Member asked a question 💭
Jamestown, KY
March 10
 · 
Reactions
A myPHteam Member

Many hospitals now offer patient friendly tests to determine how a PH patient will be able to handle being in a pressurized cabin and for how long. Ask your PH Clinic to write you an order to get the test. It is very similar to the Pulmonary Function Tests but use a “blender” that replicates the air you would breathe in a plane.

It is called a High Altitude Simulation Test or HAST

March 10 (edited)
A myPHteam Member

By the way, I re-read the AI generated answer. The HAST test I mentioned used to be referred to as a Hypoxic Challenge. I'm not sure, but I think the Mayo may have developed the protocol used ind the HAST version. Again, I'm not sure about the aspect of who should get the credit for developing the test protocols.

March 12
A myPHteam Member

Thank you for the information , it is greatly appreciated

March 12
myPHteam

Is it safe to fly with pulmonary hypertension?

Flying with pulmonary hypertension is possible for many people, but it requires careful planning and medical guidance. The safety depends on your individual condition, treatment plan, and whether you have other health concerns.

Air travel poses specific challenges because of Show Full Answer

Is it safe to fly with pulmonary hypertension?

Flying with pulmonary hypertension is possible for many people, but it requires careful planning and medical guidance. The safety depends on your individual condition, treatment plan, and whether you have other health concerns.

Air travel poses specific challenges because of changes in air pressure and lower oxygen levels at high altitudes. Your body has to work harder to get the oxygen it needs, which can worsen symptoms like shortness of breath, dizziness, and chest pain.

Before booking any flight, consult with your healthcare provider or PAH specialist. They can evaluate whether flying is safe for you and help you prepare properly. Your doctor may recommend an oxygen stress test (also called a hypoxic challenge test) before flying to see how your body responds to lower oxygen levels. This helps determine if you'll need supplemental oxygen during the flight.

Many myPHteam members travel successfully with portable oxygen concentrators. One member shared, "I have idiopathic PAH, and I fly with oxygen. I have a portable travel oxygen concentrator that I use when flying."

Additional precautions include:
- Checking airline policies on medical equipment ahead of time
- Walking around or doing calf exercises during long flights to prevent blood clots
- Wearing compression socks to reduce swelling
- Creating an emergency plan with your doctor
- Bringing extra medications and supplies

With proper preparation and your doctor's approval, air travel can be safe and manageable.

March 10

Related Questions

View All

May one fly with pulmonary hypertension

A myPHteam Member asked a question 💭
Falls Chruch, Va
June 24, 2023

can you fly with PH?

A myPHteam Member asked a question 💭
Mission Viejo, CA
December 18, 2025

Living With Pulmonary Hypertension
What Is Secondary Pulmonary Hypertension?
What Is Primary Pulmonary Hypertension?