FAA UPDATES LISTS OF ACCEPTABLE PORTABLE OXYGEN CONCENTRATORS
On October 16, 2012, FAA amended Special Federal Aviation Regulation 106 (SFAR 106) to add the names of additional portable oxygen concentrators (POCs) that may be used on board. The additional POCs added to those permitted under SFAR 106 are:
- AirSep Corporation’s Focus
- AirSep FreeStyle 5
- Inogen One G3
- Inova Labs, Inc.’s Lifechoice Activox
- Phillips Respironics Simply Go
- Precision Medical Inc.’s EasyPulse
- SeQual Technologies, Inc’s SAROS
FAA also noted that two POCs made under the previous manufacturer’s names are still permitted. Those POCs are: (1) International Biophysics Corporation’s LifeChoice; and (2) Delphi Medical Systems’ RS-00400. The full list of permitted POCs may be obtained at SFAR 106.
FAA does not mandate that air carriers permit the use of POCs onboard. However, DOT’s regulations regarding Passengers with Disability require, with minor exceptions, that scheduled carriers permit the use of FAA-approved POCs on board. Under DOT’s regulations, carriers may impose certain regulations, including requiring additional advance check-in time, minimum battery capacity for the length of flight, and a physicians’ statement. The POC must also be able to be stowed safely aboard the aircraft in compliance with applicable Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and Pipeline and Hazardous Material Safety Administration (PHMSA) rules.
If you have any questions or would like further information regarding this Final Rule, please contact our office.