Can You Carry an Oxygen Tank on an Airplane?
No, you cannot use your own personal oxygen cylinder or concentrator on board a commercial aircraft, but you may be able to transport empty equipment as checked baggage with prior airline approval. 1
Key Restrictions on Personal Oxygen Equipment
- Passengers are prohibited from using their own oxygen cylinders or concentrators during flight due to safety and security regulations. 1
- Empty cylinders or concentrators may be transported as baggage if the airline approves this in advance, though additional charges often apply for this service. 1
- Airlines typically charge separately for both transporting empty equipment and providing in-flight oxygen, with fees ranging from $64 to $1,500 depending on the carrier. 1
What Airlines Provide Instead
- Airlines supply their own oxygen systems from onboard cylinders or oxygen "ring mains" built into the aircraft. 1
- In-flight oxygen is typically limited to 2 L/min or 4 L/min delivered via nasal cannulae. 1
- Approximately 76% of major carriers offer in-flight oxygen services, though availability, flow rates, and costs vary significantly between airlines. 1
Required Advance Planning
- Contact the airline medical department when booking to arrange for in-flight oxygen, as most carriers require 48-72 hours advance notice (some require up to one month). 1
- Complete a MEDIF form or airline-specific medical form that requires information from both you and your physician about your condition and oxygen requirements. 1
- Airlines do not provide oxygen for use in airports, so separate arrangements must be made for ground oxygen during check-in, layovers, and connections. 1
Special Considerations for Oxygen-Dependent Patients
- Totally oxygen-dependent patients require special arrangements with both airline and airport authorities, including possible ambulance transport to the aircraft. 1
- Direct flights are strongly preferable to avoid the complexity of arranging oxygen during stopovers. 1
- Patients should carry all usual medications, a copy of medical documentation, and travel with a companion. 1, 2
- Major oxygen distributors have international networks and can arrange oxygen at destinations if needed. 1
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Don't assume you can bring your own equipment without checking first - this is the most common mistake that can result in being denied boarding. 1, 3
- Don't wait until the last minute - oxygen arrangements require significant advance planning and coordination. 4
- Don't forget to arrange return flight oxygen - many patients only plan for the outbound journey. 1
- Some airports restrict oxygen use in terminals due to explosion risk, so verify ground oxygen policies at your specific airports. 1