With the surge in air travel, the rise in passengers traveling for medical reasons necessitates individuals to disclose emergencies to airlines during booking. This disclosure enables airlines to prepare necessary equipment, ensuring a seamless journey for medical travelers.
Portable Oxygen Bottles (POBs) emerge as indispensable aids, especially for those with respiratory challenges.
The utilization of Portable Oxygen Bottles (POBs) is permissible on aircraft, granted the specific oxygen bottle is air-certified and aligns with the aircraft’s standards. Given the critical need for safety, thorough inspections are imperative. POBs must undergo inspections and be securely affixed to a passenger seat during travel.
This article focuses on the indications and advantages of utilizing Portable Oxygen Bottles while onboard an aircraft, aligning with international standard Operating Procedures
Understanding Portable Oxygen Bottles
Portable Oxygen Bottles, or POBs, are compact devices equipped with regulators, offering supplemental oxygen to passengers, particularly those with respiratory conditions.
Per Annex 18 of the Chicago Convention, aircraft are permitted to carry oxygen cylinders weighing no more than 5kg gross weight, and it is strictly prohibited for these cylinders to contain liquid oxygen; meaning that the content of the oxygen bottle should be 100% gas.
Indications for Using Portable Oxygen Bottles
1. Respiratory Conditions:
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): Essential for individuals with COPD, POBs assist in sustaining adequate oxygen intake at varying cabin pressures.
2. Altitude-Related Discomfort:
During high-altitude travel, Portable Oxygen Bottles (POBs) assist passengers in adjusting to changes in cabin pressure, mitigating the effects of reduced oxygen. Signs of hypoxia or decompression sickness, such as dizziness and confusion, may arise. In such instances, the use of oxygen becomes imperative.
3. Cardiovascular Conditions:
Heart Failure: POBs benefit those with heart failure, ensuring ample oxygen supply during increased cardiac demand.
4. Chronic Respiratory Infections:
Pneumonia or Bronchitis: POBs support recovery by facilitating easier breathing and preventing complications during air travel.
5. Age-Related Respiratory Challenges:
Elderly Passengers: Recognizing age-related respiratory changes, POBs enhance comfort for elderly passengers, addressing breathlessness and maintaining oxygen levels.
Benefits of Portable Oxygen Bottles in Flight
1. Improved Oxygen Saturation:
POBs maintain optimal oxygen saturation, reducing the risk of hypoxia-related symptoms like dizziness and confusion.
2. Enhanced Comfort during Flights:
Passengers with respiratory challenges experience increased comfort by using POBs, alleviating symptoms such as breathlessness and fatigue.
3. Reduced Risk of Complications:
For chronic respiratory conditions, POBs mitigate exacerbations and complications linked to low oxygen levels.
4. Adaptation to Changing Altitude:
POBs assist passengers in adapting to cabin pressure changes during take-off and landing, minimizing respiratory impact.
5. Inclusive Air Travel:
Promoting inclusivity, POBs enable individuals with respiratory conditions to enjoy air travel without compromising health.
Medical Disclosure
Before traveling, passengers with reduced oxygenation saturation at sea level or respiratory conditions must disclose this information during the flight booking process. Airlines are obligated to furnish the required equipment for passenger comfort, with associated costs borne by the passenger or agency.
In accordance with company policy, passengers will be assigned specific seats for their comfort. Oxygen cylinders must be stowed beneath the passenger seat. If a cylinder cannot fit under the seat, it should be securely tied down in an adjacent seat, with charges applied as per company policy.
Portable Oxygen Bottles, aligned with IATA standards, address the unique needs of passengers with respiratory challenges. Understanding the indications and advantages empowers passengers to make informed decisions, promoting a comfortable and inclusive air travel experience. IATA , ICAIO and Operators guidelines reinforce the importance of these devices, ensuring safety, adherence, and the well-being of all passengers.
As we all say
Be safe and fly with confidence
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