Can you fly with COPD?

Can you fly with COPD? For most passengers, even those with respiratory disease, air travel is safe and comfortable. Some patients with COPD may be at risk but, with screening, these patients can be identified and most can travel safely with supplemental oxygen.

Does flying make shortness of breath worse?

The air is 'thinner' because the pressure is less and, as a result, there is less oxygen. In fact, the concentration of oxygen falls from 21% at sea level, to about 15%. Most people will tolerate this, but, if you already have problems breathing, this will become worse.

Is it safe to fly with chronic lung disease?

With optimised care, patients can fly without any additional risk. Clinical and functional evaluation for fitness to fly and possible risk factors for in-flight hypoxaemia should be assessed in all COPD patients before flying.

Can I fly with low oxygen levels?

The current international guidelines state that if your oxygen saturation is expected to fall below 85% in- flight, a “High Altitude Simulation Test” should be performed to see whether oxygen is required on the flight and if so, how much oxygen is needed1.

How can I breathe better while flying?

Choose a seat in the middle of the plane. As the air circulates across the rows and not up and down the plane, some experts believe the worst air is in the front or the back of the plane. Stay well hydrated by drinking lots of fluids (water or fruit juice) and avoiding caffeine and alcohol, which will dehydrate you.

Is flying hard on your lungs?

Low air pressure during air travel also decreases the amount of oxygen in the air. This effect is modest and generally not noticeable for healthy travelers. For patients with significant lung disease, a small decrease in available oxygen can cause significant symptoms, especially with exercise.

What is the riskiest part of flying?

Takeoff and landing are widely considered the most dangerous parts of a flight.

How can I breathe better on a plane?

Choose a seat in the middle of the plane. As the air circulates across the rows and not up and down the plane, some experts believe the worst air is in the front or the back of the plane. Stay well hydrated by drinking lots of fluids (water or fruit juice) and avoiding caffeine and alcohol, which will dehydrate you.