Traveling with Your Own Portable Oxygen Concentrator: FAA & Disability Rights Explained (and Do Any Airlines Still Provide In-Flight Oxygen in 2025?)
Key Takeaways
-
The FAA and the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) protect your right to use your own portable oxygen concentrator (POC) on U.S. commercial flights.
-
Airlines are required to accept FAA-accepted POCs and may not require passengers to rent from third-party vendors.
-
Most airlines no longer provide onboard oxygen, so travelers should bring an FAA-approved POC with enough batteries for 150% of total travel time, including layovers and delays.
-
Your oxygen concentrator is classified as an assistive medical device, so it does not count toward your carry-on limits.
-
Main Clinic Supply offers FAA-approved Inogen POCs, extended batteries, and expert guidance for confident, compliant air travel.
Flying with Oxygen in 2025: Understanding the New Reality
For many oxygen therapy users, flying means freedom, visiting loved ones, enjoying vacations, and maintaining an active lifestyle. The process is now more straightforward than ever, thanks to improved FAA standards and lightweight, travel-ready portable oxygen concentrators (POCs).
While airlines once provided in-flight oxygen, almost all major U.S. carriers now require passengers to bring their own FAA-approved POC. Fortunately, federal law protects your right to do so.
|
Main Clinic Supply: Trusted Oxygen Therapy Equipment 10,000+ 5★ Reviews | A+ BBB Rating | Mayo Clinic Area Experts
The Main Clinic Supply Difference: ✓ Best price guarantee on all POCs whenever possible Trust & Experience You Need: Family-owned Rochester business featured in USA Today, AARP, and Reader's Digest. We exclusively carry FDA-cleared POCs as an Authorized Inogen Sales and Service Center. |
FAA Requirements for Portable Oxygen Concentrators
The FAA’s Acceptance Criteria for Portable Oxygen Concentrators (14 CFR Part 121, Appendix F; Advisory Circular 120-95A) sets the rules for oxygen use on aircraft. Here’s what matters most:
1. Device Approval
Your POC must appear on the FAA’s list of accepted devices or have a manufacturer's label stating: “This device meets FAA requirements for in-flight use.”
2. Battery Requirements
You must carry enough battery life for at least 150% of your total travel time, including flight hours, layovers, boarding, and any potential delays. For example, if your total travel day is 8 hours, you’ll need at least 12 hours of battery power available.
This ensures you have uninterrupted oxygen even if your flight or connections are delayed.
All batteries must be packed in your carry-on, never checked, and terminals should be covered or taped to prevent short circuits.
3. Assistive Device Classification
FAA policy classifies POCs as assistive medical devices, meaning they do not count against carry-on limits.
4. Use During Flight
POCs may be used throughout your flight as long as they are safely stowed under the seat or beside you without blocking the aisle. Most airlines require battery-only operation, not onboard power.
5. Safety Restrictions
Compressed oxygen tanks and liquid oxygen systems remain prohibited for passenger use on all commercial flights.
FAA regulations allow approved portable oxygen concentrators on flights with sufficient battery backup for safe in-cabin use throughout travel.
Your Rights Under the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA)
The Air Carrier Access Act (14 CFR Part 382) guarantees your right to travel with necessary medical equipment such as portable oxygen concentrators. Section 382.133 specifically requires airlines to permit the use of FAA-approved POCs in the cabin.
What This Means for You
-
You may bring and use your own POC as an assistive device.
-
Airlines cannot require you to rent oxygen equipment from a specific vendor.
-
You may bring extra batteries and related accessories free of charge.
-
While advance notice helps, lack of notice does not invalidate your right to fly with your own FAA-approved POC.
If an airline challenges your use of personal oxygen equipment, request to speak with their Complaint Resolution Official (CRO) on-site, or file a report with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Aviation Consumer Protection Division.
Do Any Airlines Still Provide In-Flight Oxygen in 2025?
As of 2025, almost all major U.S. airlines no longer provide onboard oxygen service. Here’s what travelers can expect:
|
Airline |
Onboard Oxygen Provided |
Personal POC Allowed |
Notes |
|
United Airlines |
Yes (limited Pacific routes only) |
Yes |
Must meet FAA battery and labeling standards |
|
American Airlines |
No |
Yes |
FAA-approved POCs accepted |
|
Delta Air Lines |
No |
Yes |
FAA-approved POCs accepted |
|
Southwest Airlines |
No |
Yes |
FAA-approved devices permitted |
|
Alaska Airlines |
No |
Yes |
Accepts all FAA-approved models |
When Airlines Push “Preferred” Oxygen Vendors
Certain airlines suggest third-party vendors, such as OxygenToGo®, that offer device “approval” services and optional rentals. Unfortunately, many passengers report being told, incorrectly, that they must rent from these vendors.
These rentals can be exorbitantly expensive, often costing several hundred dollars per trip. In many cases, passengers who already own the vendor's Inogen model are pressured to rent duplicates unnecessarily.
The FAA or the Air Carrier Access Act does not support this practice. You have the right to use your own FAA-approved POC, provided it meets labeling and battery requirements.
Both the FAA and DOT classify POCs as assistive devices, and airlines must accommodate passengers who wish to bring and operate their own equipment. Requiring or pressuring a passenger to rent through an exclusive vendor is inconsistent with the intent of federal disability law.
FAA-approved POCs provide reliable oxygen therapy during air travel.
FAA Battery Rule: What “150% of Total Travel Time” Really Means
The FAA requires that passengers using portable oxygen concentrators carry a battery capable of providing at least 150% of the total travel time. That calculation includes:
-
The total scheduled flight duration
-
Taxiing before takeoff and after landing
-
Layovers and connections
-
Possible gate holds, diversions, or weather delays
For instance, a traveler with 8 hours of total travel time (including one layover) must have 12 hours of available battery power.
All batteries must be carried in your hand luggage, and battery terminals should be covered with protective caps or tape to prevent contact with metal objects. Never store lithium-ion batteries in checked luggage.
Modern FAA-approved devices, such as the Inogen Rove 6, make compliance easy. Its extended battery provides up to 12.75 hours of runtime at lower settings, meeting FAA standards for many full-day travel itineraries.
How to Travel Confidently with Your Own FAA-Approved POC
-
Verify the FAA Label: Ensure your device displays the FAA acceptance statement. All Inogen Rove 4 and Rove 6 models are FAA-approved.
-
Carry Your Oxygen Prescription: Always bring a copy of your oxygen prescription and your doctor’s statement in your carry-on bag. These may be requested by TSA or airline staff.
-
Bring Extra Batteries: Calculate your 150% battery requirement, factoring in total travel time and potential delays.
-
Arrive Early for Security Screening: TSA may manually inspect your device. You can request a visual inspection instead of X-ray screening if preferred.
-
Inform the Airline (Optional): While advance notice is not mandatory, notifying the airline can help coordinate seating and boarding assistance.
-
Avoid Exit or Bulkhead Seats: Your POC must fit under the seat in front of you, so these seating zones are off-limits.
Why You Should Never Be Required to Rent a Device
If an airline or partner vendor tells you that you must rent a POC, know that this is not required by law.
Both the FAA and the Air Carrier Access Act guarantee your right to travel with your own approved medical equipment. Airlines must accommodate your personal POC as long as it meets FAA criteria.
If you encounter resistance:
-
Request the airline’s Complaint Resolution Official (CRO).
-
File a report with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Aviation Consumer Protection Division.
-
Reference FAA Advisory Circular 120-95A and 14 CFR §382.133 for legal backing.
You are not obligated to rent, even if a vendor or airline representative suggests otherwise.
Safe Travel Tips for Oxygen Users
Traveling with oxygen takes a bit of preparation, but a few simple habits can help keep your trip smooth and safe:
-
Avoid petroleum-based products, such as Vaseline, when using oxygen.
-
Keep tubing organized and out of walkways.
-
Stay hydrated before and during your trip.
-
Carry a pulse oximeter to monitor oxygen levels during flight.
-
Store your POC and batteries in a carry-on bag, not checked luggage.
*Note: This blog is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Oxygen concentrators require a prescription and must be used under the oversight of a licensed medical professional. We encourage patients to research their options so they can have informed discussions with their provider.
Main Clinic Supply: Your Partner in Oxygen Travel
Main Clinic Supply, located near Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, provides free delivery to all Mayo Clinic hospitals and ships nationwide.
We specialize in FAA-approved Inogen portable oxygen concentrators, including the Rove 4 and Rove 6, both designed for reliable performance and easy air travel.
As an Authorized Inogen Reseller and Authorized Inogen Service Center, we provide same-day service using genuine parts, along with overnight replacement options for customers covered under select Lifetime Warranty and Service Plans.
We also offer next-day shipping throughout the U.S. and Canada, flexible CareCredit financing with no interest for six months, and fixed-rate plans lasting up to 48 months. Travel bundles are available as well, including chargers, carrying cases, and extra batteries to make trips smoother.
Thousands of our satisfied customers trust us for reliable oxygen therapy solutions and exceptional service.
As a family-owned business with an A+ BBB rating and thousands of verified five-star reviews, we focus on making oxygen travel stress-free so you can breathe comfortably at home, in the air, and wherever your day takes you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I fly with my own portable oxygen concentrator?
Yes. The FAA and Air Carrier Access Act protect your right to use your own FAA-approved POC onboard. Airlines must permit it and cannot require you to rent one.
Do I need to notify the airline in advance?
Advance notice is recommended but not mandatory. You must meet FAA battery and labeling standards. Airlines should not deny boarding if your POC complies with these requirements.
Do I need a prescription to fly with a POC?
Yes. POCs are FDA-regulated devices and require a valid prescription. Always carry a copy in your carry-on bag.
Are there any airlines that still provide oxygen onboard?
Only limited United Airlines Pacific island routes offer oxygen service. All other major carriers require passengers to bring their own FAA-approved POC.
What happens if my POC malfunctions during a trip?
This is where purchasing from an authorized service center makes a difference. At Main Clinic Supply, we offer same-day warranty repairs and overnight replacement options for our customers. If you experience equipment issues while traveling, contact our support team immediately for assistance, and we'll work quickly to get you back up and running.
*Note: Pricing and product availability mentioned in this post are subject to change. Please check the website for current pricing and stock information before making a purchase.