I used a CPAP machine on literally dozens of CX business and first class flights over a period of many years without incident. Last year, late at night on a flight to HKG from YVR in business, a flight attendant shook me awake and told me I could not use the device and demanded I immediately turn it off. She stood over me waiting and was quite agitated and loud, getting in my face and waking up other passengers. This was embarrassing and unnecessary. I eventually told her I was fine without her watching me, to leave me alone and to have the senior flight attendant come over for a chat. Much apologising ensued.

Still, the experience put me off using CPAP while flying, which I'm sure has led to my fellow passengers being inconvenienced by snoring. I looked into getting permission to use CPAP onboard, but it appeared to be an onerous amount of paperwork for each flight. I also dreaded being shaken awake by another FA. The rules, such as they are, are obviously not well known or always applied equally by the crew.

CX seems to have modified it's rules on CPAP recently and now suggests getting a "FREMEC" card that allows me to fly without getting advance clearance. All I need to do, apparently, is get a form filled in by my doctor once, then a card will be issued allowing me to use CPAP onboard.

Any hose-heads out there who have applied for a FREMEC and are willing to share their experiences? Please tell me you don't have the FA come over at the start of the flight and treat your medical condition like ordering a special meal: "Hello Mr. X. I have you down as a sleep apnea passenger. Will you be using any devices today?"

Any other pointers on CPAP use while flying CX?

Thanks in advance.