jmc

My mother in law wants to visit us but needs in flight oxygen do all airlines carry this, she is also 80 so will travel insurance be a problem has anyone come across this ?

Lou

Deutschmaster

I think I remember that some airlines were charging for oxygen so perhaps to check before you book?

hoofie2002

Contact the airlines - they will have a policy about it. Also if she needs oxygen travel insurance may be very difficult. If she falls ill and the plane is diverted etc then the medical bills could be in 5 figures + very quickly.

She should talk to her doctor first to see if she is fit to fly - I doubt the airlines would allow her on board without a letter from a doctor.

ray2gill

Hi Lou,
Travel insurance is very difficult to get and very expensive once you are over 70. My father who travelled at the age of 91 got his through SAGA the holiday people for the over 55's. I contacted all the insurance brokers and no company wanted to know. Things may have changed though.

I think 4 years ago for 3 weeks in Dubai it cost him £600 with no medical conditions. For OZ it may be cheaper as there are reciprical medical agreements.

Good luck.

carolinephillips

If you are over 80 it is hard to get insurance. Is she fit to fly if oxygen dependant??? I doubt if many companies will take the risk. So sorry.

Jarvl

She will be charged for oxygen that will be put on especially for her to use, it will be placed under the seat infront of her. All airlines do carry oxygen, in a ring main system, also portable bottles for first aid/crew use. But if a passenger knows they will probably need it, it's best to book it when purchasing your tickets. Travel insurance should not be a problem, but you may have to shop around a bit.

Regards, Jarvl.

jmc

Thanks for you replies , my mother does not require oxygen for every day living but doctor advises for inflight , she is determined to come but hope its safe .

Lou

Jarvl

Lou,

I have seen many passengers travelling with oxygen, as advised by their Doctors. The fact that they have it, oftens means that they don't need it, as they are relaxed knowing it is there. Feel free to pm me, was cabin crew for many years, so may be able to help you with any worries.

Take care,

Tom Sawyer

Eeeerrrrrr....No. Not all airlines charge. Certain UK airline with a big red tail with a V on it doesn't and it can be pre-booked at time of booking or via special assistance. You will need to know the flow rate (litres per hour) required and may require a doctors letter that she is fit to fly. Aproximately 23 bottles of oxygen are carried, 4 of which are specifically for prebooked theraputic use, so should be more than enough for the trip.

Oh, and because I am pedantic. Not all aircraft use a ring main system. 747 yes. Airbus no. But neither of them are for theraputic use.

Jarvl

Sorry, stand corrected, yes I was talking about 747.