Flying with a Lung Condition: How to Travel Safely and Comfortably

Expert Medical Travel Advice for Passengers with Respiratory Conditions

Travelling with a lung or respiratory condition can still be a rewarding experience, whether you’re visiting the Côte d’Azur for business, heading to a private hospital in Zurich for treatment, or returning home via air ambulance after surgery. With the right preparation, even flights lasting long‑haul can be managed safely.

Are You Fit to Fly?

Before booking your ticket or arranging a medevac, you should ask yourself a few key questions:

• Can you walk a short distance (for example 100 metres) without excessive breathlessness? If not, you may require in‑flight oxygen.
• Have you recently been in hospital for a lung or heart condition? If so, consult your physician or the specialist at your private hospital abroad before travel.
• Do you have a history of blood clots or deep vein thrombosis (DVT)? Because long‑haul flights increase DVT risk, special precautions may be necessary.
• Did you experience breathing problems on a previous flight? If yes, then medical clearance is strongly advised.

Your doctor may recommend supplemental oxygen, a medical escort, or an air ambulance service. Many airlines require formal medical clearance for any passenger needing in‑flight oxygen.

Airport & Airline Assistance

If you need assistance from the airport to the aircraft, here’s how to prepare:

• Contact your airline at least 48 hours in advance to arrange medical support or mobility assistance.
• At arrival, head to the Special Assistance Area for check‑in, boarding and disembarkation help.
• Request priority boarding so you have extra time to settle in and attach medical equipment if needed.

Travelling with Oxygen: What You Need to Know

If you rely on supplemental oxygen, the journey needs careful planning:

• Notify your airline in advance — each carrier has its own policy on medical oxygen.
• If using a Portable Oxygen Concentrator (POC), ensure it is approved for in‑flight use and that you carry enough batteries (and spares) for the full flight plus any potential delays or layovers.
• Some airlines offer onboard oxygen, but it typically requires medical clearance and may incur extra charges.
• Remember that airline‑supplied oxygen normally does not cover airport transit or layovers — especially in remote destinations — so you may prefer a full medical escort or repatriation service.

At SkyCare, we specialise in air ambulance repatriation and medical escort flights — including full oxygen support from departure to arrival, ensuring continuous care for your journey.

Preparing for a Stress‑Free Flight

Once your airline confirms all arrangements, take these additional steps:

• Get written confirmation of all medical arrangements from the airline and/or service provider.
• Pack your medications in carry‑on luggage, along with a doctor’s letter detailing your condition and prescriptions.
• Check airline policies around batteries for nebulisers, CPAP machines or other medical devices.
• Stay hydrated — dehydration can worsen breathing symptoms.
• Limit alcohol intake and, if possible, move around during the flight to reduce DVT risk.
• If you take blood‑thinning medication, discuss travel‑specific advice with your physician especially for long‑haul flights.

Travel Insurance: Essential for Peace of Mind

Having the right travel insurance is vital when you have a lung condition:

• Fully disclose your medical history including any recent treatments or medications — failure to do so may invalidate your cover.
• Make sure your policy includes medical repatriation, which can ultimately be the highest cost item in an emergency abroad.
• If travelling within Europe, hold your EHIC or GHIC card — but note: this does not replace full private insurance.

Final Travel Checklist

✔ Notify your airline of any medical needs well in advance

✔ Arrange oxygen supplies if required

✔ Pack enough batteries and specify any medical devices required

✔ Book airport assistance if needed

✔ Carry essential medications and a doctor’s letter in your hand luggage

✔ Stay hydrated and keep moving during the flight

✔ Ensure your travel insurance fully covers your condition

With careful preparation and expert guidance, flying with a lung condition can indeed be a manageable, and even enjoyable experience. When in doubt, always consult your doctor and travel with a reputable provider of medical repatriation and escort services.

Reviewed by Dr Lee Collier – SkyCare Repatriation (16 February 2025) | Next review due 16 February 2027