Oxygen tanks are permitted on board a private jet only if they meet specific certification requirements. Your broker will coordinate with the operator and inform you of the necessary specifications. In some situations, you might need to acquire a different type of oxygen tank to comply with these requirements.
Is the specification dictated by the FAA?
Yes, the FAA dictates the specifications for oxygen tanks, although operators may also impose additional restrictions. You can refer to the FAA’s Part 135 rules for comprehensive details on oxygen tank regulations.
Oxygen tanks are essential for passengers with medical needs. Cabin pressurization isn’t always maintained at sea level, but adjustments can be made on certain aircraft. For example, if a passenger has a condition where lung spores expand under higher pressure, the cabin pressure can be adjusted accordingly.
Different aircraft have varying levels of pressurization, which can impact your comfort during the flight. Higher cabin pressure can lead to increased fatigue. For instance, you might feel more tired flying from Europe to the US on a Legacy aircraft compared to a Gulfstream, due to the higher pressurization in the Legacy’s cabin.
Which oxygen tanks are approved by the FAA?
Here are some FAA-approved oxygen tanks for use on aircraft:
- AirSep Focus
- AirSep FreeStyle
- AirSep FreeStyle 5
- AirSep LifeStyle
- Delphi RS-00400
- DeVilbiss Healthcare iGo
- Inogen One
- Inogen One G2
- Inogen One G3
- Inova Labs LifeChoice
- Inova Labs LifeChoice Activox
- International Biophysics LifeChoice
- Invacare XPO
- Invacare Solo2
- Oxlife Independence Oxygen Concentrator
- Oxus RS-00400
- Precision Medical EasyPulse
- Respironics EverGo
- Respironics Simply Go
- SeQual Eclipse
- SeQual SAROS
If somebody wants to bring oxygen with them, is this something that they have to have approved in advance?
Yes, you must get prior approval to bring oxygen tanks on board, and you cannot bring them as cargo. Inform your broker of any medical requirements, including all necessary medical devices, before your flight to ensure the aircraft is equipped with appropriate outlets and voltage.
Most private jets do not come with the medical equipment you might find on commercial airlines. Passengers with medical conditions should bring all necessary devices with them on the flight.
If needed, are there electric outlets on board for my oxygen tank?
Yes, there are electric outlets on board, but the voltage may not match your oxygen tank’s requirements. It’s crucial to discuss this with your broker beforehand. If the outlet is far from your seat, they can also provide an extension cord to accommodate your needs.