COPD & Emphysema Support Group
COPD is a progressive disease characterized by airflow obstruction or limitation. Emphysema is characterized by loss of elasticity of the lung tissue, destruction of structures supporting the alveoli and of capillaries feeding the alveoli. Both have symptoms that include shortness of breath, among other respiratory troubles. If you are a COPD or Emphysema sufferer, join...
Be aware that Airsep is only recommended to be used up to 12,000 feet elevation. The company warns that "it may lose performance higher than 12,000 feet. Planes often fly higher than 12,000 feet.
Also be aware that there is less oxygen in the planes cabin so you may have set the concentrator to produce more O2r than you normally have it set for. And if you do you will drain your batteries quicker.
I hope it all works out for you and you have a great trip.
tom
Airplanes travelling at 30,000 feet and above are typically pressurized to simulate a height of 8,000 feet. Portable Oxygen Concentrators that are not designed to function at 8,000 feet or above are not suitable for air travel.
It is important for you to understand that I have not flown since going on Oxygen. I know you wanted to hear from those that had. I have talked to different people that have and they seem to do very well.
The Airsep Freestyle can be plugged into an outlet on the airplane if your batteries get low. BUT you need to request a seat that will enable you to have access to one.
The Airsep is designed to function at 8000 ft and above.
Hope you have a great trip.
You say your not comfortable using your Airstep.. so I would ask why?
If you don't feel like it gives enough O2 then flying with it might be an issue.
I have an Inogen and have flown repeatedly with it without problem. All airlines require you to have a Dr.s release signed ( see each airline site- they all require different forms and rules) And you have to have additional batteries . Though some styles of planes do have the charger ports, I have never had one available on any flights I've taken so don't count on that for a back-up.
The airlines now make you sit in a window seat so your O2 tubing is not a trip hazard to other passengers.
The battery back up and other O2/ meds supply you use as carry on do not count as your one carry-on allowed so you can still bring an extra bag.
I'm sure you've talked with your Dr. about the trip. While I am not on O2 24/7 I do have to use a higher flow than my sleep O2 and many COPD'rs who fly find the same- you need a higher flow on the plane verses ground.
I also hope you avail yourself of using the wheelchair assist from the counter to the gate- that has saved me the energy and breath to enjoy my trips instead of being totally worn out.
If I did not have my concentrator, I would have had to quit traveling a few years ago. For me the concentrator affords the freedom to still take trips and enjoy.
I'm sure you've googled the topic but here's a link that might help too.
http://www.accpstorage.org/newOrganization/patients/TravelingwithOxygen.pdf
Hugs and have fun
Check with your Airline you are using, to see if their planes have the charger port. As to the Dr's release, each time I flew, I had my release, but was not ever asked for it.
Be sure to request wheelchair assistance at each airport(especially if you have to change planes) and let the Airline know you are traveling with O2, when you make your reservations.
Also, the wheelchair will get you special assistance.
Enjoy your trip if it's a pleasure trip.