Flying With A Chest Condition: Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland

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Flying With a Chest Condition

Can you fly?
Who needs medical clearance to fly?
How to arrange oxygen for a flight
Practical advice for flying with a chest condition

Can you fly?

passengers on an aeroplane There is slightly less oxygen in an aircraft cabin than at ground or sea level. If you have low blood–oxygen levels this could cause breathlessness and discomfort.

Your doctor might suggest having some further tests to see if this is likely to be a problem for you. (This effect can also happen in high–altitude destinations from 6,000ft upwards.)

However, most people with chest conditions have no difficulty flying.

In general, if you can walk more than 50 metres on the flat (at a normal pace) or climb one set of stairs without severe breathlessness you should be able to fly as long as you have your doctor's permission.

Who needs medical clearance to fly?

If you have any concerns about your health you should contact your airline's medical department before travelling. This gives time for medical clearance and your fitness to fly to be assessed before you travel.

If your chest condition is stable you are likely to have no problems with flying. However, you may still need to seek your doctor's advice before planning or booking a flight.

You will need medical clearance to fly if:

Your fitness is in doubt as a result of a recent illness, a period in hospital, surgery or if you have a condition that is unstable.
You need any special service or equipment, e.g. oxygen.

To get medical clearance to fly you and your doctor will need to complete a Medical Information Form (MEDIF), available from your airline's medical department or your travel agent.

Your airline may also ask you to complete an Incapacitated Passengers Handling Advice (INCAD) form. Sometimes the INCAD and MEDIF are two parts of the same form.

INCAD and MEDIF forms are only valid for one journey.

How to arrange oxygen for a flight

If you use oxygen continuously, and will need it during the flight, you will have to let your airline know when you book your seat.
Each airline will have its own policy regarding the supply of in–flight oxygen, e.g. what flow rates are available and what charges, if any, are applicable.
Some airlines now prohibit in–flight oxygen during take off and landing. Ask your airline what its policy is.
Most airlines will only provide oxygen for the flight. If you need oxygen on the ground you will need to provide your own for any transfer between flights.

Practical advice for flying with a chest condition

Plan ahead: arrive early at the airport and avoid carrying heavy luggage.
Have a letter from your doctor, to keep in your hand luggage, with details about your condition and treatment.
Your sputum will become stickier in the low humidity of the plane's atmosphere.
Practice your chest clearance techniques prior to flying and during stopovers on a long–haul flight.
Drinking plenty of non–alcoholic fluids will help loosen your sputum and allow you to keep your chest clear.
If you are prone to chest infections consider taking a supply of antibiotics with you in case you get an infection while you are abroad.
It is safe to use any of your inhalers when flying. Keep them with you, in your hand luggage, at all times.
Try to remain as mobile as possible throughout the flight.
Make sure your travel insurance covers you for any medical costs that may arise in connection with your chest condition.

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