Always ask your doctor or nurse practitioner before you travel if that would be advisable, given your condition.

• If you need oxygen, call the airline in advance to arrange. southwest Air does not provide oxygen.
  
• Most major carriers will charge you for each leg. Therefore, try to fly direct whenever possible. (American, United, and Continental all charge $100 per leg as of 8/5/2004.)
  
• If you require oxygen in sea level, it is a good idea to get oxygen for travel. You will likely require a higher flow rate in the air.
  
• The airline will not provide oxygen prior to the flight and during connections.
  
• You cannot check in yoru oxygen. Tanks must be empty.
  
• Walk every hour to prevent blood clots. get an aisle seat.
  
• Do not check your medication in. Carry it with you in its original packaging. If you are traveling internationally, it is a good idea to have original copies of your prescription for custom clearance.
  
• Anticipate your needs. Make sure your destination hotel has a refrigerator or freezer.
  
• Consider getting a phone number of a PH specialist in htat area. PHA has a list of PH doctors around the country.
  
  • Take your emergency letters with you.
    
• Useful website: Breathin' Easy - A Guide for Travelers with Pulmonary Disabilities - Traveling by Air
  It lists airline numbers and cost requirements. Also refer to PHAssociation and PHCentral for the latest travel tips and legislation updates for PHers and traveling.
  
• The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) initiated action to allow portable oxygen on airlines with a notice of proposed relemaking on July 14, 2004. The comment period was extended on August 13, 2004. No final ruling has been made.
  Editor's note: On 7/13/2005 The Federal Aviation Administration issued a rule to allow, but not require, airlines to permit patients to travel with portable oxygen concentrators during all phases of the flight, including take-off and landing. Here is the federal document in PDF format.
  
• Enjoy your vacation!