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LTV Series Ventilators and Air Travel
The LTV series of ventilators was developed with the portability and ease of use to keep you moving and experiencing all you can. Traveling by air is not only possible, but enjoyable, for adults and children who rely on mechanical ventilation to breathe. Participating in travel by air requires a great deal of preparation well in advance of your trip, even before you purchase your ticket. The information below is a compilation of various resources on traveling with ventilators, and information from the airlines themselves and the US Department of travel, and recommendations by ventilator users.
Preparation for Air Travel
- When planning travel by air for yourself or a companion that depends on mechanical ventilation for life support, advance planning is the key to success. If you are flying alone, make sure a flight attendant will be able and willing to help you in the event of an emergency. Please take into consideration that in reality, the airlines are usually too understaffed to provide much assistance to passengers with special needs. A traveling companion knowledgeable in your care requirements and trained to assist you is preferable. Talk to families who have flown before, and take advantage of what worked best during their travel.
When initially making reservations, ask to speak with a medical specialist, and provide details and special requests. They will document your needs for that flight crew, and prepare the aircraft as needed for your flight.
- Physician's letter
A letter from your physician stating your medical diagnosis, ability to travel, the need to use ventilation in-flight and that the medical equipment must stay with you.
- Equipment information
Including the ventilator name and model number, specifications, manufacturer's name, address, phone and website. (With strict security regulations and screening, these documents may also ease the passage through security checkpoints when they ask for more information.) It is important to include all information regarding the type of batteries you will bring onboard as well.
- Airline staff names and numbers
Get the names and phone number for the airline's supervisors who will be on duty at your departure and arrival airports. Make certain to carry this information with you when you travel.
- Seating assignment
Ask to be seated as close to the front (or near the bulkhead) as possible. Check on courtesy First Class seats - these are often free of charge.
- Carry On equipment and baggage
Inquire in advance about "carry on" regulations that apply for special needs as they vary from one airline to the next. Ask for the dimensions under the seats for the aircraft model you will be flying on to either ensure your equipment will fit, or determine that you need to purchase an additional seat. Portable suction, oxygen concentrators, personal blankets and pillows, will also take up take up space, so consider these items in your calculations.
- Supplemental Oxygen
If you will need oxygen, a minimum 48-hour advanced notice is required by most airlines. There are some oxygen concentrators approved by airlines, and some airlines that will allow you to use the onboard oxygen. Check with the policies of the airline you wish to work with. Go to the TSA site: http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/specialneeds/editorial_1374.shtm#2 Medical Oxygen and respiratory related equipment page for guidelines and travel tips with supplemental oxygen and respiratory equipment.
- Battery operation and power supply
Wet cell batteries are not permitted in the cabin of the most aircraft for safety reasons. Dry or gel cell batteries are acceptable for operation of life support systems/equipment on aircraft as specified by the particular carrier. Have your battery type, manufacturer and duration information ready. Now is the appropriate time to inquire if you may use the power supply onboard the aircraft or rely on your batteries. Ask if the power supply on board is compatible with your ventilator. Plan to bring battery power to cover all your requirements en-route in case of a malfunction onboard, or a last minute change in aircraft.
The information on traveling with Lithium Ion Batteries below is located online at: www.safetravel.dot.gov
Effective January 1, 2008, you may not pack spare lithium batteries in your checked baggage.
You may pack spare lithium batteries in your carry-on baggage. Please see our and How-To sections to find out how to pack spare batteries safely!
If you pack a device containing batteries, secure it against activation by locking the activation switch in the "off" position, placing the device in a protective case, or by other appropriate measures.
For personal use, there is generally no restriction on the number of spare batteries allowed in carry-on baggage. This is the case for cell phone batteries, "hearing aid" button cells, and AA batteries/AAA batteries available in retail stores, as well as almost all standard laptop computer batteries.
See "Larger Batteries" to find out about more powerful batteries, such as extended-life "universal batteries" and batteries designed for professional audio-visual applications.
While Traveling
Arrive at least 3 hours early to ensure ample time for checking in and correcting any arrangements that may not be prepared.
When in route, the following items are recommended to assist you in clearing security and traveling safely and comfortably.
- Physician's letter
A letter from your physician stating your medical diagnosis, ability to travel, the need to use ventilation in-flight and that the medical equipment must stay with you.
- Equipment information
Including the ventilator name and model number, specifications, manufacturer's name, address, phone and website. (With strict security regulations and screening, these documents may also ease the passage through security checkpoints when they ask for more information.)
- Airline staff names and numbers
Get the names and phone number for the airline's supervisors who will be on duty at your departure and arrival airports. Make certain to carry this information with you when you travel. A CRO, or Complaint Resolution Officer is also a resource for problem resolution at most airports.
- Carry On equipment and baggage
Carry onboard the aircraft, ventilator (and a spare if possible in your checked luggage), appropriate batteries, ambubag and suction equipment, extra circuit, spare mask or mouthpiece. Bring a small roll of duct tape in case of a rip or tear in your tubing. Consider extra blankets and a small pillow for your comfort. Stow these items in a convenient and immediately accessible location for the duration of your flight. A luggage trolley and a few bungee cords will make moving and storing your equipment and supplies easier while traveling. Custom fitted transport bags are available from Cardinal Health Pulmonetic Systems for LTV ventilators.
- In Flight
Carefully monitor yours or your child's response during take off and the flight. If you suspect mechanical malfunctioning of the ventilator, use your Ambu-bag™ while evaluating the situation. Talk to your home RT who has air travel experience for people using respiratory equipment.
- Destination home medical equipment provider information
Have the name and phone number of a home medical equipment provider that services LTV ventilators at your destination in case of emergency. Call customer service at 1-800-754-1914 to get a contact name and number.
Airline contact and policy information
Every airline has different policies and requirements and they are subject to change. Please contact the airline you are considering before purchasing a ticket to inquire about arrangements available and specific to your care requirements.
Northwest Airlines
1-800-224-2525
Website information for special services and life support equipment
http://www.nwa.com/services/onboard/special/spec.shtml#life
Delta Airlines
1-800-221-1212
Website information for special services and life support equipment:
information for special services
KLM
1-800-224-2525
For domestic United States, the information from NWA is referenced.
Website information for special services and life support equipment:
http://www.nwa.com/services/onboard/special/spec.shtml#life
British Airways
1-800- 247-9297
Allows hooking up to airline oxygen. Electrical hook-up on upgraded seats only.
US Airways
1-800-247-9297
Allows you to use a ventilator, but only with cabin air and personal battery power.
American Airlines
1-800-433-7300
No posted information, a special assistance coordinator will advise you individually. Have all the ventilator specifics as described above when you call, including oxygen requirements and battery specifics
Southwest Airlines
1-800-435-9792
Continental Airlines does not allow the use of mechanical ventilation onboard the aircraft.
Frontier Airlines does not allow the use of mechanical ventilation onboard the aircraft.
The following are links for more information on air traveling in the United States with special needs.
U.S. Department of Transportation
Aviation Consumer Protection Division
for information on travelers with disabilities
http://airconsumer.ost.dot.gov/publications/disabled.htm
Transportation Security Administration
Travelers with Disabilities and Medical
http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/specialneeds/index.shtm
International Cival Aviation Organization - Battery powered devices Working Paper pdf
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