Use of portable CPAP on overnight flight during mask mandate
Sep 13, 2021, 10:46 am
#16
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Back to OP's question - I would contact the medical desk to determine the expectations. I would imagine that this falls under the medical exception for mask mandate, and the Special Assistance desk can answer both questions. https://www.aa.com/i18n/travel-info/...al-devices.jsp
Here's my personal experience:
It's usually attached to an older model (5+ old ResMed). All new models have built-in modem.
Breathing assistance unit. Usually for sleep apnea to keep an airway open. Unfortunately I know all too well. Think of it as ram air for aging baby boomers.
But I can't sleep on an airplane anyway so I just pack mine. This usually leads to TSA hilarity because half the time they want it out and swab it. Then I get a lecture for leaving it in my suitcase and slowing down the Pre-check line while they drag it out. The other half of the time they don't want it out, but I have pulled it out since the last guy lectured me. Then I get a lecture for slowing down the Pre-Check line by having something unnecessary in a bin that can stay in the suitcase.
But I can't sleep on an airplane anyway so I just pack mine. This usually leads to TSA hilarity because half the time they want it out and swab it. Then I get a lecture for leaving it in my suitcase and slowing down the Pre-check line while they drag it out. The other half of the time they don't want it out, but I have pulled it out since the last guy lectured me. Then I get a lecture for slowing down the Pre-Check line by having something unnecessary in a bin that can stay in the suitcase.
- When it's in its own bag - does not require separate bin, and does not count toward carry-on luggage allowance
- In the luggage - Require separate bin - it's the same issue with some of the food items, where the TSA guy can't determine the content based on the scan. My work around is to carry a separate tote with just the CPAP, and stuff both back in the luggage after TSA.
- Canada security - always place in separate bin
It's usually attached to an older model (5+ old ResMed). All new models have built-in modem.
Sep 13, 2021, 2:22 pm
#17
Join Date: Feb 2001
Location: Montebello, CA, USA
Posts: 2,365
Does this mean that you don't currently use a CPAP and are waiting to be prescribed one? If so, just be warned that getting used to it can be challenging; it took me 2 weeks. During those 2 weeks I would wake up to find out that I had ripped the mask off in my sleep (never woke up enough to realize I was doing it.) I knew if I kept at it, I would get used to it. I think some people adapt easily and some it takes longer, so just be prepared for that if you are thinking about getting it and then using it during a flight soon after.
Sep 16, 2021, 12:23 pm
#20
Join Date: Dec 2016
Programs: DL-G, UA,Hilton,Hertz
Posts: 34
Hello, curious what is allowed with regard to CPAPs during the mask mandate. I have a small, portable, battery powered designed specifically for plane travel. On an overnight flight in business class, will I be permitted to use it at all? Perhaps with a mask over it?
I looked on AA.com and didn’t see anything specific to this topic. Any personal experience in this regard will be much appreciated.
I looked on AA.com and didn’t see anything specific to this topic. Any personal experience in this regard will be much appreciated.
Sep 16, 2021, 12:32 pm
#21
Join Date: Jul 2018
Location: SE Wisconsin
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I flew to Amsterdam a few weeks ago in Business Class. I did not ask to use mine. I use the nose pillows (P10). I just put my cloth mask over the top, and nobody said a word. They likely didn’t even notice.
Sep 16, 2021, 1:50 pm
#22
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Been traveling with my cpap for many many years. Have not taken it our of my carryon/roll on bag in at least 5 years - probably longer.
I do not take the water.humidifier unit with me anymore.
I do not take the water.humidifier unit with me anymore.
Feb 6, 2022, 2:08 pm
#23
Join Date: Mar 2017
Location: Chicago
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Using a CPAP while onboard?
I have an upcoming International flight (JFK-EZE) and was wondering if anyone on this forum uses a CPAP while onboard and if they encountered any issues recently? I have a travel CPAP (medical device) that is for use on-board, and my mask fully covers my face and mouth. I've used it in the past on long haul flights (prior to 2020) without issue. I could see where an overzealous FA could say that it counts as a mask with a "vent" but I can assure you there is no way the filtered air leaving the CPAP is on the level of air blowing out of a surgical mask. Thought to see other experience for piece of mind. Being able to breathe properly while I sleep is important and not snoring like crazy would help the other passengers as well.