FAA Rules for CPAP
A CPAP is a continuous positive airway pressure machine. The FAA classifies a CPAP with ventilators, respirators and portable oxygen concentrators (POCs). Department of Transportation (DOT) rules require that aircraft with a capacity of 19 or more seats must permit passengers with disabilities to use such devices.
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Department of Transportation Final Ruling
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The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) issued a final ruling on May 13, 2009 addressing the use of a CPAP and POC. Section 382.133 of the final "Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability in Air Travel" generally requires air carriers conducting passenger service to permit a person with a disability to use an FAA-approved CPAP or POC. The medical units must display a manufacturer's label indicating the device meets FAA requirements.
CPAP and POC Requirements
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The medical device must meet FAA requirements for medical portable electronic devices (M-PEDs). This requires labeling that confirms the device does not exceed certain levels of radio frequency interference, that it does not contain hazardous materials, and that it meets FAA-designated safety requirements. As of the ruling date, few CPAP machines carried such labeling. Passengers with disabilities should check with the equipment manufacturer to be sure a CPAP unit meets the radio frequency interference levels and the FAA safety regulations.
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Air Carrier Requirements
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Air carriers are not required to provide plug ins for CPAP machines, or to provide additional room such as adjacent seating for the machines during use. Most airlines don't consider a CPAP or other medical unit as the single piece of permitted carry-on baggage, but this can vary, especially on smaller regional airlines.
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References
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- Photo Credit an aircraft in flight coming in to land at a busy airport image by Antony McAulay from Fotolia.com
