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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.

Do others use a personal oxygen concentrator (poc) on airplane flights? If I don't have mine, my oxygen sat drops to 84%.

A myPHteam Member asked a question 💭
Colorado Springs, CO
August 31
 · 
Be the first to react
A myPHteam Member

Yes, It definitely makes a huge difference on how you feel not only in the air, but when you land. Before I started using it while flying it took me a few days to recover from jet lag and just the struggles of traveling. Now I hit the ground feeling ready for my vacation, not a week long nap.

September 2
A myPHteam Member

Yes, and with this sat. you should use oxygen.
Check with airlines because have different criteria. You will need a drs. order too.

August 31
A myPHteam Member

Yes you can. Your doctor will need to fill out a form for the airline. You will need to have enough battery to last the entire flight. It’s been a while since I flew and I don’t remember all of it. Give yourself ample time to do before the trip.

September 1
myPHteam

Yes, absolutely — many people with pulmonary hypertension use a portable oxygen concentrator (POC) during flights. A myPHteam member shared that they fly with a portable travel oxygen concentrator, using it both on flights and in elevators when their oxygen saturation drops.

An oxygen sat of 84% is significantly low, so Show Full Answer

Yes, absolutely — many people with pulmonary hypertension use a portable oxygen concentrator (POC) during flights. A myPHteam member shared that they fly with a portable travel oxygen concentrator, using it both on flights and in elevators when their oxygen saturation drops.

An oxygen sat of 84% is significantly low, so bringing your POC on flights is really important for your safety. The good news is that smaller oxygen concentrators are actually permitted on airplanes, unlike some other oxygen delivery systems. Here are some tips for flying with your POC:

- Check airline policies in advance — each airline has its own rules about medical equipment, so contact them ahead of time to avoid surprises
- Carry backup batteries — bring enough to last the entire flight, plus extra
- Carry your oxygen prescription and medical documents in your carry-on bag
- Let the airline know ahead of time so they can accommodate your needs

It's also a good idea to discuss your travel plans with your doctor well in advance, as they may want to adjust your treatment plan or provide additional guidance for flying safely.

August 31

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