TSA Says POCs, Gel-Based Cushions Still Allowed

WASHINGTON–With security measures heightened at the nation’s
airports, portable oxygen concentrators and gel-based wheelchair
cushions, as well as most other medically necessary items, are
still being allowed onboard commercial flights, the Transportation
Security Administration said.

According to Sandra Cammaroto with the TSA, all approved medical
devices, including POCs, are being allowed through security
checkpoints once they have been screened. Also, the limit of one
carry-on and one personal item does not apply to medical supplies
or equipment.

Last year, the Federal Aviation Administration began allowing
two portable oxygen concentrators–Inogen’s Inogen One and AirSep’s
Lifestyle–onboard aircraft (see HomeCare, July 18, 2005).

Even with recent restrictions on carry-on items, air travel for
passengers who need supplemental oxygen continues to improve,
according to Daryl Risinger, vice president of marketing for
Inogen. “Both our contact with representatives of the TSA and the
increasing number of airlines accepting POCs indicates these
organizations are working diligently to ensure travel for this
segment of the population is as seamless as possible,” he said.

While most gel-based items are now banned onboard and must be
packed in checked luggage, the TSA is allowing some medical
products, including gel-filled wheelchair cushions, gel-filled bras
and similar prosthetics, on airplanes. Other disability and
medically related items permitted beyond security checkpoints
include wheelchairs and scooters, crutches, canes, walkers, support
braces and casts, diabetes medication, orthopedic shoes, ostomy
supplies, CPAPs, respirators and baby apnea monitors.

People with disabilities, those with prosthetic devices or other
medical conditions are not required to remove their shoes before
boarding, the TSA said. People who keep their shoes on, however,
will be subjected to additional screening that includes a
visual/physical and explosive trace detection sampling of their
footwear.

For people flying with medications, the TSA advises that the
name on prescription bottles must match the name on the airline
ticket. Medications should also be packed in a clear bag separate
from other carry-on items. While not a requirement, the TSA says
documentation for medications and medical equipment should be
supplied whenever possible.

For a complete list of items permitted onboard, and for tips for
travelers with disabilities, visit the Department of Homeland
Security Transportation Security Administration Web site at
www.tsa.gov.