Wondering if you can use your CPAP machine during a flight? This complete guide covers airline policies, FAA rules, power options, battery requirements, and practical tips for in-flight CPAP use in 2025.

Can I Use My CPAP on a Plane? Complete In-Flight Usage Guide 2025

"Can I use my CPAP on a plane?" This is one of the most common questions sleep apnea patients ask before air travel. The short answer: No, you cannot use your CPAP machine during most commercial flights—but there are important exceptions, alternatives, and strategies you need to know.

This comprehensive guide explains why in-flight CPAP use is generally prohibited, when exceptions apply, how to manage sleep apnea on flights, battery-powered CPAP options, airline policies, and practical solutions for daytime flights and overnight red-eyes.

Whether you're taking a short domestic flight or a 15-hour international journey, understanding your options for CPAP therapy during air travel will help you arrive rested and protect your respiratory health.

The Quick Answer: CPAP Use on Planes

Standard Policy for Most Airlines:

❌ Cannot use CPAP during flight for sleep purposes on most carriers
✅ Can bring CPAP as carry-on (doesn't count toward baggage limit)
✅ Free of charge (medical device exemption)
⚠️ Limited exceptions for medical emergencies or specific airlines
🔋 Battery-powered CPAPs follow same restrictions (not about power availability)

Why CPAP Use Is Generally Prohibited:

Not a Life-Sustaining Device During Waking Hours: Unlike portable oxygen concentrators (POCs), CPAPs are sleep therapy devices, not life-support equipment for conscious passengers
Cabin Environment: Dry cabin air and pressurization make CPAP therapy less effective and potentially uncomfortable
Safety Concerns: Masks obstruct face visibility, interfere with emergency communications, and impede oxygen mask deployment
Passenger Comfort: Noise, air jets, and mask visibility may disturb adjacent passengers
Airline Discretion: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) doesn't mandate in-flight CPAP use like it does for POCs

Understanding the Difference: CPAP vs. POC

Why are portable oxygen concentrators allowed during flights but CPAPs generally aren't?

Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POCs)

Life-Sustaining: Provide supplemental oxygen for respiratory/cardiac conditions
Required While Awake: Patients need oxygen during waking hours and sleep
FAA Approved: Specific FAA-approved models mandated for in-flight use
Safety Designed: Don't obstruct face, don't interfere with emergency procedures
Federal Protection: Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) requires accommodation

CPAP/BiPAP Machines

Sleep Therapy: Designed for use during sleep only
Not Continuously Required: Not needed during waking hours
No FAA Mandate: No federal requirement for in-flight use
Safety Considerations: Full-face masks obstruct communication and emergency access
Airline Discretion: Individual carriers set policies

Key Distinction: A person with COPD needs their POC to breathe while awake and sleeping. A person with sleep apnea only needs CPAP during sleep. Most flights don't involve sleeping for extended periods, so CPAP is not considered medically necessary during the flight.

FAA Regulations on In-Flight Medical Devices

The Federal Aviation Administration distinguishes between different types of medical devices:

FAA-Approved for In-Flight Use (All Flight Phases)

Portable oxygen concentrators (specific approved models)
Insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors
Pacemakers and implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs)
Hearing aids and cochlear implants
Personal electronic medical devices (small battery-powered)

Not Specifically Approved/Airline Discretion

CPAP and BiPAP machines
Ventilators (except when medically necessary with advance approval)
Nebulizers (most airlines prohibit aerosol devices)

FAA Stance on CPAPs:

The FAA does not prohibit CPAP use on aircraft, but it also doesn't mandate accommodation like it does for POCs. This means airlines have discretion to set their own policies. Most major U.S. carriers do not permit routine CPAP use during flight for the safety and operational reasons listed above.

Major Airline Policies on In-Flight CPAP Use

Here's what the major U.S. carriers say about using CPAP machines during flights:

American Airlines

Policy: CPAP machines are not permitted for routine use during flight.

Can bring CPAP as free carry-on (doesn't count toward limit)
Exceptions only for documented medical emergencies
Contact Special Assistance at 800-433-7300 for medical necessity cases

Delta Air Lines

Policy: CPAP use during flight not permitted for sleep therapy.

CPAP travels free as assistive medical device
Must be stowed during flight in overhead bin or under seat
Medical device exceptions require advance approval and physician documentation

United Airlines

Policy: CPAP machines generally not used during flight.

Free carry-on accommodation under Accessibility Services
Advance notification recommended but not required
Medical emergency exceptions considered on case-by-case basis

Southwest Airlines

Policy: CPAP machines are not approved for in-flight use.

Travel free of charge as medical equipment
Must be stowed according to flight attendant instructions
Contact Southwest at 800-435-9792 for special circumstances

JetBlue Airways

Policy: CPAP machines not permitted for routine in-flight use.

Exempt from carry-on limits as medical device
Battery-powered CPAPs follow same policy (not about power source)
Special Assistance available at 800-538-2583

Alaska Airlines

Policy: CPAP use during flight not allowed except for documented medical necessity.

Free carry-on under medical equipment policy
Physician's letter required for medical necessity exceptions
Contact Disability Services at 800-503-0101

International Carriers (Examples)

British Airways: CPAP not permitted for routine use; medical necessity cases require advance approval and MEDIF form.

Lufthansa: CPAP use during flight requires medical clearance and advance notification minimum 48 hours.

Air Canada: Generally not permitted; exceptional cases require physician documentation submitted 48 hours before departure.

Emirates: CPAP use during flight not standard policy; contact Emirates Special Assistance for medical necessity approval.

Exceptions: When CPAP Use May Be Permitted

While routine in-flight CPAP use is not allowed, there are limited circumstances when exceptions may be granted:

Medical Necessity Exceptions

When Airlines May Consider Approval:

Documented Medical Emergency: Physician letter stating in-flight CPAP use is medically necessary during waking hours
Severe Sleep Apnea with Complications: Combined respiratory/cardiac conditions requiring continuous therapy
Ventilator-Dependent: Patients requiring ventilator support (not just sleep apnea therapy)

Required Documentation:

Physician's letter on medical practice letterhead
Detailed medical justification for in-flight use
Explanation why CPAP is needed during waking hours
Alternative management strategies considered
Statement of passenger's ability to respond to crew instructions while using device

Advance Notification:

Contact airline Special Assistance/Disability Services
Minimum 48-72 hours before departure (airlines vary)
Some international carriers require MEDIF (Medical Information Form)
Final approval at airline's discretion

Red-Eye and Overnight Flights

Are overnight flights different?

Even on overnight red-eye flights where passengers sleep, most airlines maintain the no-CPAP policy:

Reasons:

Flight attendants must be able to communicate with all passengers during flight
Emergency situations require unobstructed access to passengers' faces
Oxygen masks cannot be deployed over CPAP masks
CPAP noise may disturb other passengers in quiet cabin

Alternatives for Red-Eyes:

Sleep in slightly upright position to reduce apnea events
Use cervical collar or travel pillow to maintain airway position
Practice good sleep hygiene before flight (well-rested)
Consider medication consultation with physician for severe cases

Battery-Powered CPAP Options (Still Limited Use)

Some travelers wonder if battery-powered CPAPs are allowed since they don't require airplane power outlets. Important: Battery availability is not the issue—safety and operational policies still apply.

Popular Battery-Powered Travel CPAPs

1. ResMed AirMini

World's smallest CPAP (10.6 oz)
Battery available: Portable Power Station (Medistrom or similar)
Still subject to airline no-use-during-flight policies
Excellent for use at destination accommodations

2. Transcend Auto miniCPAP

Lightweight design (1 lb)
Can run on battery power (P8/P10 battery packs)
Not approved for routine in-flight use by most carriers
Great for camping, hotels, overnight trips

3. Z2 Auto CPAP

Compact travel CPAP with battery option
PowerShell battery (8+ hours)
Airline policies still prohibit in-flight use for sleep therapy

4. Philips DreamStation Go

Travel-friendly auto-CPAP
Optional battery pack available
Free carry-on on flights; use at destination

Battery Regulations:

Lithium-ion batteries under 100Wh: unlimited quantity
100-160Wh batteries: maximum 2 spare batteries
Must be in carry-on (never checked baggage)
Terminals must be protected from short circuit

Managing Sleep Apnea During Flights

If you can't use your CPAP during the flight, how do you manage sleep apnea symptoms?

Short Flights (Under 4 Hours)

Strategy: Stay awake or take brief, monitored naps

Tips:

Schedule Daytime Flights: Book morning/afternoon flights when you're naturally alert
Stay Engaged: Watch movies, read, work, or use in-flight WiFi to stay awake
Avoid Alcohol: Alcohol relaxes throat muscles and worsens sleep apnea
Caffeine Strategically: Moderate caffeine can help maintain wakefulness
Sit Upright: Recline minimally to reduce airway collapse

Medium Flights (4-8 Hours)

Strategy: Brief sleep with airway positioning

Positioning Techniques:

Cervical Collar or Travel Pillow: Keeps head/neck in neutral position to maintain airway
Side Sleeping: If possible, sleep on your side rather than back (reduces apnea events by 50%+)
Slightly Upright: Don't fully recline seat; partial upright position reduces airway collapse
Chin Tuck Prevention: Use neck support to prevent chin from dropping to chest

Sleep Hygiene:

Get full CPAP therapy night before flight
Well-rested travelers have fewer apnea events
Avoid sleep deprivation before travel

Long-Haul Flights (8+ Hours)

Strategy: Combination approach with physician consultation

Consult Your Doctor About:

Oral Appliances: Mandibular advancement device (MAD) for flight use
Positional Therapy: Devices that keep you sleeping on your side
Temporary Medication: Some physicians prescribe temporary sleep aids that don't suppress breathing (NOT benzodiazepines)
Nasal Strips/Dilators: External nasal dilators (Breathe Right strips) can improve airflow

Important Medical Considerations:

Never use sedatives or sleep aids that suppress respiratory function
Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Valium) and some sleep aids can worsen sleep apnea
Consult pulmonologist or sleep specialist before long-haul flight
Patients with severe sleep apnea should consider splitting ultra-long flights with overnight stop

Red-Eye Flight Strategies

For Overnight Flights (Departing 9 PM - 2 AM):

Pre-Flight CPAP: Use CPAP before leaving for airport to arrive well-rested
Limit Sleep on Plane: Try to stay awake or sleep minimally during flight
Resume CPAP Immediately: Use CPAP as soon as you reach destination accommodation
Strategic Flight Timing: Book red-eyes that land early morning, allowing full night's CPAP sleep at destination

Oral Appliance Alternatives

For travelers with mild to moderate sleep apnea, oral appliances may provide temporary management during flights:

Types of Oral Appliances:

Mandibular Advancement Devices (MAD): Moves jaw forward to keep airway open
Tongue Retaining Devices: Holds tongue forward to prevent airway obstruction

Getting an Oral Appliance:

Requires dentist or sleep specialist fitting
Custom-fitted devices most effective
May take time to adjust to appliance
Not a replacement for CPAP but useful for travel situations

Traveling with CPAP: Carry-On Guidelines

While you can't use your CPAP during most flights, you absolutely should bring it with you:

TSA Security Screening

CPAP Checkpoint Procedures:

Declare Device: Inform TSA officer you're traveling with CPAP machine
Separate Screening: Remove CPAP from bag for X-ray screening
Keep Assembled: Don't disassemble; screen as complete unit
Water Emptied: Empty humidifier water chamber before security
Alternative Screening: Request visual inspection if concerned about X-ray

TSA Guidelines:

CPAP machines are allowed in carry-on and checked baggage
Distilled water for humidifier: exempt from 3-1-1 liquid rule (declare at checkpoint)
Spare batteries: must be in carry-on (not checked baggage)

Airline Carry-On Policies

CPAP as Medical Device:

Does Not Count: CPAP doesn't count toward carry-on baggage limit
Free of Charge: No fees for CPAP under Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA)
In Addition To: Bring CPAP + standard carry-on bag + personal item
Overhead or Under Seat: Store in overhead bin or under seat in front of you
Keep Accessible: Some travelers prefer under seat for easier access at destination

International Travel Considerations

Documentation for International Flights:

Prescription or Physician's Letter: Recommended for customs (not required by U.S. airlines)
Device Manual: Helpful if customs questions arise
Universal Power Adapter: For use at international destinations (110-240V)
Distilled Water: May need to purchase at destination (not always available)

Country-Specific Considerations:

Most countries allow CPAP machines duty-free as medical devices
Bring documentation in local language if traveling to non-English-speaking countries
Research electrical outlet types and voltage at destination

Practical Tips for CPAP Travelers

Before Your Flight

1 Week Before:

Ensure CPAP is functioning properly (test run)
Clean all components thoroughly
Order universal power adapter if traveling internationally
Consider backup battery if staying somewhere without reliable power

Day Before Flight:

Use CPAP for full night to arrive well-rested
Empty humidifier water chamber
Pack CPAP in padded carrying case
Charge any battery accessories

At Airport:

Arrive early for TSA medical device screening
Empty any remaining water from humidifier
Keep CPAP easily accessible for screening
Bring empty water bottle to fill after security (for humidifier at destination)

During Flight

Stowage:

Place CPAP in overhead bin or under seat in front of you
Use padded travel case to protect during flight
Don't place anything heavy on top in overhead bin

Stay Comfortable:

Use neck pillow or cervical collar for sleep positioning
Stay hydrated (cabin air is very dry)
Avoid alcohol (worsens sleep apnea)
Move around cabin regularly to stay alert on long flights

At Your Destination

Upon Arrival:

Use CPAP for nap or full night's sleep as soon as possible
Set up device before going to bed (avoid fumbling when tired)
Use distilled water in humidifier (tap water damages equipment)
Plug in universal adapter and test device before sleeping

When to Consult Your Doctor

Contact your pulmonologist or sleep specialist before flying if:

Severe Sleep Apnea: AHI (Apnea-Hypopnea Index) over 30 events per hour
Complex Medical History: Heart disease, COPD, or other respiratory conditions
Recent Diagnosis: Newly diagnosed and not adjusted to CPAP therapy
Long-Haul Flights: Flights over 8 hours, especially overnight
Multiple Flights: Complex itineraries with several long flights and connections

Your Doctor May Recommend:

Temporary oral appliance for flight use
Sleep positioning strategies
Medication considerations (avoid respiratory depressants)
Breaking up ultra-long flights with overnight stops
In rare cases: medical documentation for in-flight CPAP use exception

Special Considerations for Severe Cases

Ventilator-Dependent Patients

Patients who require ventilator support (not just sleep apnea therapy) have different options:

Ventilator Air Travel:

Requires advance notification and medical clearance
Physician documentation of medical necessity
May require nurse escort on some international flights
Contact airline Special Assistance/Medical Desk 72+ hours in advance
MEDIF (Medical Information Form) typically required

Combined Respiratory and Cardiac Conditions

Patients with both sleep apnea and conditions like COPD or heart failure:

May Qualify for POC Instead:

If you require supplemental oxygen, FAA-approved POC may be better option
POCs are allowed during all flight phases
Physician can prescribe oxygen therapy for air travel
May address both oxygenation and sleep apnea concerns

Consult Physician About:

Whether oxygen therapy is medically indicated for flight
Combining POC use with positional sleep strategies
Medical necessity documentation for CPAP exception

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use my CPAP on a plane if I have a prescription?

A: Having a prescription doesn't override airline policy. Most U.S. carriers do not permit CPAP use during flight even with a prescription. The prescription helps with TSA security and international customs but doesn't guarantee in-flight use permission. Contact your airline's Special Assistance department if you have documented medical necessity requiring in-flight CPAP use.

Q: Can I use a battery-powered CPAP on a plane?

A: Battery power availability doesn't change airline policy. Most airlines prohibit in-flight CPAP use regardless of power source. The restrictions are based on safety considerations (face obstruction, emergency communication, oxygen mask deployment) rather than power availability. Battery-powered CPAPs are excellent for destination use and locations without reliable electricity.

Q: What about overnight international flights—can I use CPAP then?

A: Most airlines maintain the no-CPAP policy even on overnight red-eye flights. While passengers may sleep on long-haul flights, CPAPs are still not permitted for routine use. Exceptions require advance medical approval with physician documentation. Consider sleep positioning strategies, oral appliances, or breaking up ultra-long journeys with overnight stops.

Q: Will my sleep apnea cause problems on a flight if I can't use my CPAP?

A: For most people with sleep apnea, short-term flights without CPAP therapy are manageable. Arrive well-rested (use CPAP night before), avoid alcohol, use neck support to maintain airway position, and stay mostly awake on shorter flights. Consult your doctor before long-haul flights, especially if you have severe sleep apnea (AHI > 30) or combined heart/lung conditions.

Q: Does my CPAP count as a carry-on item?

A: No. CPAP machines are considered assistive medical devices under the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) and don't count toward your carry-on baggage allowance. You can bring your CPAP plus a standard carry-on bag and personal item at no additional charge. Never check your CPAP—always keep it in carry-on luggage.

Q: Can I bring distilled water for my CPAP humidifier through TSA security?

A: Yes. Distilled water for CPAP humidifiers is exempt from the 3-1-1 liquid rule. Declare the water to TSA officers at the security checkpoint. However, many travelers find it easier to bring an empty CPAP humidifier through security and purchase distilled water after the checkpoint or at their destination.

Q: What if I have a medical emergency and need my CPAP during the flight?

A: Notify flight attendants immediately if you're experiencing respiratory distress. Airlines have emergency oxygen available and can coordinate with medical professionals on board. If you have a condition requiring continuous respiratory support during waking hours, you may need an FAA-approved portable oxygen concentrator instead of a CPAP, as POCs are permitted during flights.

Q: Are oral appliances a good alternative to CPAP for flights?

A: For travelers with mild to moderate sleep apnea, custom-fitted oral appliances (mandibular advancement devices) can provide temporary airway management during flights. They don't work for everyone, so consult your sleep specialist or dentist about getting fitted well before your trip. Oral appliances are not a permanent replacement for CPAP but can be useful for travel situations where CPAP use isn't possible.

Conclusion: Planning CPAP-Free Flights Successfully

While the answer to "Can I use my CPAP on a plane?" is generally no for routine sleep therapy, understanding the reasons behind this policy, knowing the exceptions, and having effective management strategies allows sleep apnea patients to travel safely and comfortably.

Key Takeaways:

Standard Policy: Most airlines prohibit in-flight CPAP use for safety and operational reasons
Bring Your CPAP: Always pack CPAP in carry-on (free of charge, doesn't count as baggage)
Management Strategies: Stay well-rested, use positioning techniques, avoid alcohol, consider oral appliances
Exceptions Exist: Documented medical necessity cases may be approved with advance notice and physician documentation
Consult Your Doctor: Discuss flight plans with your pulmonologist, especially for long-haul travel or severe sleep apnea

Next Steps:

Review your airline's specific CPAP policy at booking
Discuss travel plans with your sleep specialist, especially for flights over 8 hours
Consider custom oral appliance fitting for travel situations
Practice sleep positioning techniques before your trip
Always travel with your CPAP and use it immediately upon reaching your destination

With proper planning and realistic expectations, sleep apnea patients can successfully navigate air travel without compromising their respiratory health.

Related Resources:

Safe travels—and don't forget your CPAP! ✈️