We are flying to Ireland in September on Aer Lingus and I will be bringing my CPAP which I will not use inflight. I know that flying in the U.S. medical devices do not count as a carry on so can bring my roll aboard, a personal item and my CPAP. Does anyone know if that also applies going overseas. I would rather not have to pack my CPAP in my luggage as it does take up some room.
Posted by
New York, NY, USA
11294 posts
On Aer Lingus's website, it says to contact them directly, at least 48 hours before the flight, about "medical equipment." The number in North America is (877) 351-6882.
I couldn't find anything explicitly about CPAP on their website, and for something this important, I'd contact them directly. As you say, you need to ask about BOTH directions, as it's totally possible that different rules will apply.
Posted by
3123 posts
I agree it's best to call them directly. Also ask if you can get a letter or an email confirming whatever it is that they tell you.
Medical professionals have told our family member who uses a CPAP that airlines are required to allow CPAP in its case as a carry-on without counting it against your carry-on allowance. They said that you should never put CPAP in checked luggage because it may be damaged. However, as you say, once you leave the USA who knows if all airlines honor the carry-on policy.
Make sure you have the right adapter (and converter, if needed) to be able to plug in the CPAP in your hotels in Ireland. Also scope out a place to buy distilled water upon arrival.
Posted by
Pittsburgh, PA, USA
138 posts
We went to Ireland last October on Aer Lingus and one of the people in our group had a CPAP machine. He had absolutely no problem carrying it on the Aer Lingus Flight. It did not count as his carry on and he also had a backpack with him. One suggestion if your are going with a CPAP machine is to take an extension cord with you. Sometimes the plugs are nowhere near the beds and he had to use the extension cord every night.
I found this on Aer Lingus' website -
Other devices such as C-PAP, nebulizers, ventilators or respirator machines* may be carried and used on board only if it can be verified by a manufacturers’ label or otherwise that the units meet applicable FAA requirements. Under no circumstances can a defibrillator be used on any Aer Lingus aircraft.
Posted by
Reston, VA, USA
810 posts
I recently got back from a trip to Scotland with friends who use CPAP’s. They were able to find distilled water, also known as deionized water, in the automotive section of a local Tesco.
Have a great trip!