Children Flying with Oxygen

child on a plane

Children Flying with Oxygen

It is critical to consult with your pediatrician and get approval for use of any portable oxygen concentrators and related equipment. At Advanced Aeromedical, we work with children who need therapeutic oxygen while flying, whether they are going somewhere for medical treatments or heading out for vacation. Today, there are more kids flying with oxygen than ever so it’s important to ensure that the correct equipment is used.

Which Oxygen Equipment Can Children Use?

Pulse or on-demand delivery systems are designed for adult use. As a general rule, children and infants cannot use a pulse delivery device. Of the portable oxygen concentrators that are FAA-approved, only a few offer a continuous flow that children can use. The lowest setting on these machines is 0.125 (1/8th) or 1 LPM.

FAA-Approved Portable Oxygen Concentrators that Offer a Continuous Flow:

SeQual Eclipse
DeVilbiss Healthcare iGo
O2 Concepts OxLife Independence
Invacare Solo 2
Philips Respironics SimplyGo
O2 Concepts Oxlife Liberty
Precision Medical TOC

Invacare Precise RX Pediatric Flow Meter

This unit attaches to an oxygen source set at 2 LPM, offering flow rates 1/16th – 3/4 LPM or 50-750 cc/min. This unit can be used with or without a humidifier bottle. It is easy to operate and easy to install, with no tools or modifications to the concentrator or oxygen source required. This unit prevents any back pressure on the concentrator. The unit weighs 2.4 lbs.

Consult with Your Child’s Physician

Consult with the child’s physician about flying and using therapeutic oxygen. Each airline has its own rules about flying with a portable oxygen concentrator. Each airline also has its own specific physician statement for the doctor to sign off and establish an LPM (prescribed oxygen liters per minute) for the flight. Additional batteries are required as well.

Children Flying with Oxygen