Top 9 Airlines that Provide Inflight Oxygen or POCs

It can be challenging for people traveling by plane with respiratory problems, such as asthma, COPD, and many other conditions. High altitude and lower air pressure can aggravate breathing difficulties. Therefore, it is essential to determine “Which airlines provide in-flight oxygen or portable oxygen concentrators (POCs)” for travelers who require extra supplemental oxygen. Many airlines, whether operating domestically or internationally, now permit the use of in-flight oxygen for passengers who need this therapy. Those suffering from this condition can now easily travel to their ideal destination without facing any issues. If you want to know which airlines offer portable oxygen concentrators, you need to read this guide to the end to ensure easy and convenient travel.

What is a Portable Oxygen Concentrator?

It is a medical device that absorbs oxygen from the surrounding air and gives it to the user.  The lives of people with respiratory disorders have been significantly transformed by this innovative technology, which enables them to travel and experience the world without being limited by conventional oxygen tanks. POCs are designed to be portable, unlike traditional oxygen tanks that are large and require frequent refills. They are lightweight, small, and convenient to transport in a backpack or carry-on bag. Due to this, they are particularly suitable for individuals who require additional oxygen and wish to maintain an active lifestyle. 

Airlines that provide Portable Oxygen Concentrators 

To make your travel life easier, here’s a list of airlines that provide portable oxygen concentrators on board:

1. Delta Air Lines: Delta Air Lines no longer provides compressed medical oxygen. Instead, it allows travelers to bring along Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POCs) that the FAA has approved, provided 48 hours prior notice is given. It is the responsibility of passengers to ensure their POCs meet Delta’s specifications, which include having adequate battery life and proper packaging. 
2. Virgin Atlantic: Virgin Atlantic caters to clients who require oxygen on their flights. They allow passengers to bring their FAA-approved POCs in their hand luggage. If they intend to use the device aboard, they must complete the POC and Battery Approval Request form and submit it to the airline’s oxygen provider (OxygenToGo) at least 48 hours before the flight. 
3. Lufthansa: Lufthansa provides a limited amount of supplemental oxygen onboard for passengers with specific medical needs. A passenger must contact the Lufthansa Medical Operation Centre at least 48 hours before departure to arrange for an oxygen supply.
4. British Airways: British Airways is one of the airlines that provides oxygen in flight. It supplies therapeutic oxygen to only one person on a flight. As a result, a flyer must schedule this service in advance.
5. Emirates: Emirates accepts FAA-approved devices without requiring a medical form. However, because in-seat power is unavailable, passengers must ensure they have sufficient battery charge for the entire flight duration. 
6. Air Canada: One can either purchase the Medipak oxygen service or bring their POC when flying with Air Canada. However, this service must be scheduled at least 48 hours before travel and also requires prior medical approval. 
7. Singapore Airlines: Singapore Airlines allows the use of specific POC equipment and CPAP machines on board.  Passengers must ensure their devices have sufficient battery power for at least 150% of the flight duration. 
8. Air China: Air China permits the use of FAA-approved portable oxygen concentrators, provided they do not contain pressurized oxygen, as it can be hazardous during flight. You must fill out an application form and present the medical documents to the airline authority within 10 days of your departure. This will confirm that you require continuous usage of a portable oxygen concentrator.
9. Korean Air: They provide medical oxygen, but it’s not free, and reservations must be made in advance. Passengers using supportive breathing devices should contact the Service Center at least 48 hours before departure to avoid last-minute hassles. 

What are the benefits of passengers travelling with a portable oxygen concentrator?

There are many advantages of using a portable oxygen concentrator on trips. 

1. It helps people with any respiratory condition to travel easily on flights.
2. They are no longer concerned about running out of oxygen or relying on unknown oxygen sources while traveling abroad. 
3. They can enjoy their journey knowing that their oxygen demands are being met if they have a portable oxygen concentrator. 
4. There is no need to change or refill oxygen tanks when utilizing a portable oxygen concentrator. 

Conclusion

Travelers who require oxygen can fly securely and comfortably, as it has become clear that “Which Airlines Provide Inflight Oxygen or Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POCs)?” Many airlines permit passengers to bring their POCs, provided they comply with the airline’s rules and standards. To ensure a convenient journey, travelers should review the specific guidelines of the airline they have selected and provide advance notice to the airline, along with their medical records.  

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