8/29/2006

TSA Says Gel-Based Cushions Still Allowed 


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. 


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.  Even with recent restrictions on 
carry-on items, air travel for passengers who need supplemental 
oxygen continues to improve.


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.
The section on  Travlers with disabilities and medical conditions is here.


For my article on  Traveling by Air click here.

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