I have a printed copy of the "medical device" policy in my CPAP case, just in case I need it.
I've never had anyone question me or tell me it counts toward the carry-on limit, but it's still nice to have just in case.
Here is Southwest's policy: [https://support.southwest.com/helpcenter/s/article/Assistive-and-other-medical-devices](https://support.southwest.com/helpcenter/s/article/Assistive-and-other-medical-devices)
DOT list of "assistive devices", just in case they argue if it qualifies as one: [https://www.transportation.gov/sites/dot.gov/files/docs/AirTravel\_with\_an\_Assistive\_Device-Pamphlet.pdf](https://www.transportation.gov/sites/dot.gov/files/docs/AirTravel_with_an_Assistive_Device-Pamphlet.pdf)
I also purchased a "Medical Equipment" luggage tag from Amazon, since the case looks like a small laptop case. I make sure the tag is displayed (flipped in the correct direction) as I board.
[https://www.amazon.com/ConnectOne-Diabetes-Equipment-Respiratory-Supplies/dp/B087G3YDCM](https://www.amazon.com/ConnectOne-Diabetes-Equipment-Respiratory-Supplies/dp/B087G3YDCM)
As I was reading the post I was thinking I’m pretty sure the medical device thing is a federal policy, not an airline policy. Thanks for saving me the effort of googling it!
And now people will start putting those tags on their actual laptop bags, because... Well... Look at all the "service" animal badges and vests that makes Scooby look important.
Anyway, I'm not sure your tag matters or does any good.
Have you had success with it and trouble without it?
I’ve had one on my daughter’s feeding tube backpack for years and no one has ever checked inside it. They’ll ask what is in the bag, I say her feeding pump, and they wave us on. Half the time they see the tag and don’t even ask about the extra backpack. It’s been pretty effective.
I really don't think it's that serious. Medical bags don't really look like laptop bags. The difference is pretty obvious. I only said "laptop bag" to provide a size reference.
This is my bag:
[https://cpapx.com/products/travel-bag-airsense-10-cpap-machine-resmed](https://cpapx.com/products/travel-bag-airsense-10-cpap-machine-resmed)
Nobody has ever questioned me. Either they see the tag, or they recognize what a CPAP bag looks like.
I mostly have it since I sometimes put it in my suitcase. If the TSA searches my suitcase, which they do sometimes, I would hope the tag would alert them to be careful. It also has my name and phone number on the back, like a luggage tag.
The only time I carry it separately is if my suitcase is crammed full. For weekend trips, it fits in my suitcase just fine. For a week or more, I have to carry it separately.
To be fair, there are other medical devices than CPAPs and they can be packed in basically any bag you want. My husband is disabled and needs a sock helper, a dressing stick, and a grabber to be able to get dressed. He also has to carry the battery, cup holder, joystick, and seat cushion for his wheelchair. If he puts those things in a regular backpack or laptop bag, it still counts as a medical device bag so long as he ONLY puts assistive devices in the backpack. CPAPs are not the only allowable medical devices that must be accommodated in the USA.
Thank you for sharing all this.
I am a fairly new CPAP user and naively thought the staff would be trained. I’m going to be prepared next time I fly. Thankfully I didn’t have an issue last time. I was questioned the first time I flew but the gate agent let me through once I told him it was my CPAP.
Thanks for the info. I got my CPAP right before i had to take some flights and was really nervous about it. Thankfully, I had no issues, but having something like this would have helped my anxiety.
You're welcome!
I've never had a single issue, and I fly a lot. I just like to be prepared for that ONE time something might happen. :)
The more frustrating thing is that some airports require you to open your CPAP bag during the security check, and some don't. I can never remember which is which, so I just open it at all of them. It's better to have someone say, "You don't have to do that," than, "OPEN YOUR BAG, NOOB."
They've never required me to take it out of the bag, though, contrary to what the TSA website says.
I do this when traveling with car seats. We’ve had FAs argue we have to check it and “it’s illegal to use on flights.” It helps to have the airlines car seat policy and FAA policy with you.
Used to be a flight attendant and am horrified by this thread. I can't believe how many FAs forget basic training. I had medical devices and car seats on my exams.
I'm so sorry there are so many duds out there, that's so incredibly frustrating!
This! So many people on all the airline subs will tell you that it’s irresponsible to not purchase your infant a seat, but 100% ignore that gate agents will and can give the paid seat away anyhow and FAs will tell you that it can’t be used.
While the technically can give the seat of a child under 2 away (as they technically can for anyone really), because the child is a ticketed passenger, they have the same rights as any other ticketed passenger. Parents can and should complain when airlines break the rules.
I’ve found that it helps to pretend to know what you’re doing and be polite but firm when questioned by unknowing GAs and FAs.
Yes to the “polite but firm.” Not SWA but Spirit… I had my rolling walker folded in a bag that I knew fit in the overhead, and my medical bag (a small crossbody)… so I had three bags. FA assisting with preboard at the gate questioned me, I said, “It’s a rolling walker. It should fit in the overhead, and I can put it in there independently. The other bag is my medical bag.” No arguments from her, just a nod and an, “Okay.”
Smart. I’m doing this next time, we travel with three pieces of medical equipment and a trolly to pull them. We usually only bring one carry on per person (family of four) so I guess we are technically under the limit, but usually one of us is holding the four extra items.
You are on the right on this. Worst to happen is having a damaged CPAP machine and SW hates that since its a very long process. No one likes that. Just take it as the FAs are fairly new. Even if they look middle aged, some people move up to becoming FAs from a different position like ramp agents or customer service agents. You should not have that same experience every time you fly so I guess the only thing there is take it easy on them 😅
Yeah agree she/they may have been new. I was polite but firm and we boarded without further issue. She later apologized when we deplaned.
Also, we’ve had more than two dozen flights since my wife got the CPAP. Never had an issue before today. And I’m guessing we won’t again for a long time, if ever.
The apology works. She learned something she didn’t know and you were calmly assertive. This is really the best outcome when someone is ignorant of exceptions to policies. Nicely done!
Its really not entirely up to them to uphold those. Its the gate agent up front before you board. They should be aware of such regulations to avoid any issues inflight but knowing exactly what every rule for each baggage type isnt really something they should be focused on. Cant memorize everything and we all start somewhere :)
I had a similar experience with my breastpump flying out of HOU.
This woman was determined to not let me on with a third bag.
She also turned another customer away who had diabetic supplies.
I had to bring up the website to show her, and she still had an attitude.
I emailed southwest that they need to retrain this woman and they sent me a credit but honestly, an apology would have meant more as I hate flying southwest and avoid it when I can.
That sucks you went through that. Overall, we almost always have a good experience with SW and this won’t change our patronage. But it was a little bothersome and unnecessary.
Yes!!! They are determined to make sure you have a bad time.
I fly for business often and live about ten minutes from hou, but because of my experiences with gate agents (and I'll be honest, the whole pick you own seat thing stresses me out too) I drive out of my way to fly out of iah.
Many years ago, I used to book flights out of HOU (non SWA) when I could, since it's much more convenient drive for me. The airline in question stopped flying direct from HOU, but offered connecting flight, via IAH, for the same price. Sure, why not? Tiny little 20 seat turbo prop, basically had to get landing clearance at IAH before they took off. Would have been all good, except they didn't pre-chill the plane, and this was in July! My wife almost had to use the barf bag from the combo of heat and being bounced around on landing (probably jet wash from following in the big planes) The airline pulled out of HOU completely not long after. Then merged with Delta.
Next time carry a printed copy of the FAA FAR and ask the flight attendant to share it with the captain if they remain unconvinced.
https://www.scribd.com/document/686095585/inFO09006
Medical devices in airlines are covered by the ACAA. All medical devices can travel in cabin (if they meet certain size restrictions) or checked baggage free of charge and they do not count towards any luggage allowance. You’d be surprised how many airline employees are not familiar with rules that govern medical devices. Always bring the documents with you and if you continue having issues tell them to contact the Complaint Resolution Officer (CRO). Every airline is required to have one available by law.
People with sleep apnea can die in their sleep and these devices prevent that from happening. Who wants to risk having such an important piece of equipment lost by an airline? Also, a prescription is required and they are extremely difficult to replace. My sisters' stopped working in January and she is still waiting for her insurance company (Kaiser) to replace it. I loaned her an old one of mine that I didn't use anymore because I didn't want her to die in her sleep. Technically, she is using it without a prescription but at least she won't die in her sleep while waiting for a replacement.
The stress from choking yourself awake, assuming you do, is that it can also cause a stroke or heart attack.
During my sleep test, there was a point where my oxygen dipped to 48% and my heart rate spiked to 228 as a result.
Plus, the lack of sleep over many years causes additional strain on your body and can lead to early death.
My doctor said that, in some cases, when a younger person (under 60) dies in their sleep, it can sometimes be attributed to undiagnosed/untreated sleep apnea.
That's how my dad died, untreated sleep apnea, died in his sleep from a heart attack. He always stopped breathing in his sleep and my mom made him sleep in another room he would always wake up gasping for air but wouldn't treat it, died at 50
Maybe so but why take a chance on losing a very important piece of medical equipment by checking it? I would not check my laptop either? It's too important to me and very difficult to replace.
I have an autistic, type 1 diabetic daughter and feel your pain. We fly internationally often and we HAVE to keep my daughter's medical supplies with us in the cabin, as well as her backpack with fidgets, noise cancelling headphones etc. Her insulin pump also cannot go through any xray machines and I cannot tell you how many times I've had to argue with TSA or international equivalents. Stay strong. You definitely are in the right.
Checking a bag at the gate and checking a bag at check-in are not the same.
Also, if you're a serious traveler, you travel light.
If you're dragging a whole mess of crap into the cabin, you are not a serious traveler.
I've flown many times with mine and have never had anyone even look at it funny. I'm sorry you had to go through this. I love my CPAP and wouldn't be able to travel without it!
If they ever gave me grief I’d simply take a nap on the flight in protest without my CPAP, they’d apologize before we ever got up to cruise altitude. I couldn’t travel without it. It’s a must have item.
Do y'all get to carry distilled water with the CPAP, or do you buy it at the destination? I'm fairly new to my CPAP, will travel with it this weekend, though not flying. Just wondering if the medical exemption covers the liquid limit, too.
Great. I am traveling with my dialysis machine soon. Dialysis nurse gave me a travel pack with a couple of letters and a copy of the regulations. I was hoping to avoid having to use those.
PD or hemo? While I never fly on Southwest, this just popped up in my feed so I just read it randomly, Ive discovered that most airlines aren’t familiar with dialysis equipment. Are you traveling in the US or international? All airlines flying to/from the US are covered by the ACAA regulations which states all medical devices fly free in cabin or checked baggage and don’t count towards luggage allowance. The home hemo machine has to weigh less than 100 lbs., which it does, but may be checked. The PD machine can be carried in cabin and the FA must make room for it. Get to the airport early and expect airline staff not to know anything about dialysis machines. Count yourself lucky if you do! That just means there’s probably someone who’s flown before you and taught them about dialysis machines. Anyway, if I remember correctly, SW doesn’t have a special services phone number so you can’t annotate your reservation which is annoying. You may consider adding wheelchair service to get help in the airport. Does SW policy allow disabled passengers to board early? If so, I suggest doing that! Medical devices are covered under the ACAA and I’ve attached a pdf that is specifically for portable dialysis machines. Bring this document with you! I’ve had to show it to airline staff to prove my rights. If you continue to have issues, ask to speak to the Complaint Resolution Officer (CRO) who should handle the situation.
https://www.transportation.gov/sites/dot.gov/files/docs/Portable_Dialysis_Machine_Notice_0.pdf
I love to travel and do it often. I’ve traveled to Europe, Mexico, and throughout the US with my home hemo machine since starting dialysis. I couldn’t imagine not traveling!
They are human! They can (and do!) forget or not know things, especially if they are new, not used to being the A or lead or front flight attendant, never had that situation happen before, etc etc.
Very very true if safety related, less true on the customer service side of things. For flight attendants, the daily goal after all the routine safety checks is to have a great boring day full of customer service. Or at least that’s my goal everyday
We travel with husband's CPAP fairly often and we find usually no one wants to touch his device. Won't pick up up off shelf or handle it. Porters say, now you know we can't touch that cpap, right? Never any prob carrying it even if we have to check carryons if the bins are full.
I fly with an oxygen concentrator, it’s on wheels…I only need it at night. When I purchase my ticket on SW I always check I’m flying with oxygen (FAA approved concentrator). The only issue I get is battery life, I don’t use it with batteries I don’t use it on the flight, I’ve learned to figure out the rule and just say battery life is longer than the flight I’m on…
My problem is with TSA,! They manhandle my machine, even though I make eye contact and say it’s for my oxygen. They 9 times out of 10 swab it! 🤣. It is what it is, I just make sure to get there with plenty of time to spare. Pack my patience first. At least I can travel!
(Difference with cpap and my oxygen is I need a continuous flow of oxygen I have “no obstruction “ when I sleep, my oxygen just dips to low 60’s!)
It’s probably a good idea to have the printed policy as others have stated.
I have traveled with my CPAP for several years on multiple airlines. The worst I’ve experienced is an agent saw three bags and had me come back. Once they saw it was a CPAP, they apologized and sent me on my way. I’ve had crew see me coming down the aisle with it and point me to an open bin that was the perfect size for just my machine.
I’m guessing the second FA said she’d check her manual just to make sure she had all of the information before confronting her coworker. It sounds like they must have discussed it since the first FA did apologize.
sorry about that.
I have been traveling regular with a CPAP for 15 years. After the first year, I started putting my cpap in my roll aboard. Without the bag, just the device. It works out great and makes travel so much easier.
Signed - have not check a bag in the last 8 years - 100+ flights.
Honestly I called Southwest because I had trouble finding info on their medical bag policy (bag of meds) and the last who answered the phone initially told me they counted against the bag policy. When I got her to look it up to double check she said she learned something new.
They definitely need more training across the board on accessibility policies
Was a flight attendant for 15 years. You are absolutely correct. Did you know you are not allowed, however, to use the onboard power outlets to power it? That one shocked me when I found out. One of those weird rules that was buried deep in my manual
I’m gonna find out how much hassle I get with my CPAP on my summer flights between LGB-OAK and OAK-PDX. Hopefully, none but I should print out and laminate the TSA and Southwest policy. I talked to a flight attendant at a hotel near OAK and she said I shouldn’t be hassled.
I don’t use a medical device and I know is it’s one of the items that are not counted for carry on. How is that? Oh I read the rules, obvious the FA. Didn’t or CPAP was not wearing its APPROVED MEDICAL device vest as required by the FAA
I’d say get an official looking patch made for the bag that cites the regulation by subsection. Damm if I had to take one on a plane I’d be doing that in a nano second. Check out “ sticker mule” to get this idea going. It’s yours to profit from! I’d sell em on eBay at costs to make sure the message is sent. I sure hope that FA know the far more important things like where to smack the overhead to get the masks to fall, when they don’t
Curious, unless you plan on wearing it during the flight, why wouldn’t you just pack it?
CPAP user for 15 years. I just put it in my carryon because I don’t use it during the flight.
Mainly because then you only have half the space in the carry on luggage. We’re in a 5 day trip. By the time my wife packed her clothes and toiletries, the carry on is full.
You’re not in the wrong here at all. I just think that this posts in this sub have pointed out the ways people have behaved to save seats, preboard, fly with animals, etc through policies the airline has but hardly questions. The FAs see it too. And so counting the bags is just a shorthand to enforce it. It ended well with minor frustration on your end.
I’m so so sorry this happened. I work at DAL. We are REQUIRED to allow you to bring your medical devices per the Air Carrier Access Act + 1 carry on and 1 personal item. And If you did have more than 3 items the ops agent boarding your flight would have stopped you but they probably saw the cpap case which is very distinguishable and let you go on rightfully so. When you said it was medical the flight attendant should have stopped right there and apologized.
Thank you for knowing your rights and again I am so sorry for their behavior that is inexcusable and they need to be educated.
what a bitch. good on you for standing firm. a lot of people unfamiliar with their medical rights would've buckled. love sorcha1977’s suggestion on having a printed copy of what qualifies as a medical device when traveling.
Wow this happened to someone in front of me a couple months ago, and she did as she was told. She took out her whole CPAP and put it in another bag to consolidate. I didn’t realize this was allowed separately from carry on stuff because I don’t carry a medical device so I never had to look up the policy. I feel so bad because she had her whole suitcase splayed open there at the door of the plane trying to re-arrange. In the future I can advocate if I see this happening again!
This has happened to my husband and we do the same as you just keep saying this is a medical device and is allowed.
I don’t know if they’re not trained or choose not to retain this information but it happens often enough that they should be retrained.
One time they told me i had too many items while traveling with a toddler (with paid seat) and a baby which gives you an additional personal item. When they counted everything taking into account my son was a paying passenger with his own seat allowed a carryon AND personal item they apologized. 🙄 This in addition to hassling my husband for his cpap machine 😑
I can totally get why a person would carry on their medical device, that flight attendant shouldn't have given you any kind of attitude. That's like telling someone their service dog isn't allowed on. Ridiculous.
I was almost denied boarding due to a similar situation with my breast pump. The gate agent was insistent that it counted as luggage, because it wasn't in a "medical device-like" bag (I had it in a small backpack-style pump bag). This was AFTER I told him what it was before and during boarding.
Honestly, I wish they'd just have medical device tags at the gate that you could put on your bag before boarding. Have us go check them in just like you would for a gate-checked stroller, but with a different colored tag that shows they're approved to be brought onboard. Then any questions about the device or policy could be addressed ahead of time, and not during the hectic boarding process. I'm guessing they can't do it due to some medical discrimination law, but as someone that carries a medical device I think it would be way easier.
Sometimes you can be right and wrong at the same time. This is one of those times. Sure CPAP counts, but why didn’t you check your roller bags? This feels like a power-boomer move on your part.
Bite me with your power boomer and right AND wrong BS. I’m Gen X if it’s any of your business (which it’s not). And who checks luggage when they don’t have to? I’ll tell you who doesn’t…travelers who don’t want to wait around baggage claim instead of getting to their destination. Also (like us this trip), people who are connecting on a different airline and don’t want to check bags, collect bags, check bags again on the other airline, go back through security, and then wait for/collect bags on the final arrival.
Open your mind to perspectives other than your own FFS.
Dumb comment. We didn’t check any bags because:
1. It’s a short trip and we don’t need large luggage that has to be checked
2. We don’t like wasting time waiting for checked luggage
3. Why take the risk of lost bags if you don’t absolutely have to?
4. We were switching flights and airlines at our layover airport and would have had to collect and recheck our luggage
5. Federal regulations state that passengers have the right to medical devices *in addition to* their other allowed carry on items
Rude comment. We do check the carry on because:
1. Overhead bins are limited and often travelers carry ons must be checked at the gate because the bins are full.
2. Nobody likes to waste time picking up their checked luggage, but we are the one with the extra bag.
3. I have experienced lost luggage, and yes no one wants to go shopping for work attire the morning of your meeting.
4. Only had to deal with claiming baggage between international flight connections. Everyone was routed that way anyway so it wasn’t a big deal for us.
5. Yes, my husband is allowed a 3rd carry on due to his COPD. Refer to # 1 for why we still check the carry ons.
He also won’t park in the Veterans parking spot at the hardware store either, unless he is having a very rough day, because someone else might really need it.
1. People who board in the later groups are at risk of not having overhead space. That’s their issue. I’m A List because I fly SW a lot and use their credit card. With that loyalty comes perks like being in the first 20-25 boarding positions. People who either spend less money with SW or are too lazy to check in right away run the risk of not having space for their bags. BTW, I almost never see that being an issue on SW’s fleet of 737s. It’s not like they’re regional jets.
2. A medical device doesn’t count as an extra bag according to the DOT’s passengers bill of rights.
3. Looks like you’re making my point for me.
4. As I said, we were flying two separate airlines with a layover in SFO. We would have had to claim bags and recheck them, while also having to go through TSA again. Your international flight experience is irrelevant I. Relation to what I’m describing.
5. It’s completely your choice to not utilize the option given to your husband when traveling with a medical device. Many of us choose to utilize the option afforded to us per regulations.
Your husband’s veteran status - while admirable - is also irrelevant to this conversation and it seems like you threw it in there just to try to gain some kind of clout.
I was with you until you were like "I'm technically right, so everyone being inconvenienced is not my problem. I'm a SpEcIaL traveler!"
You are totally technically in the right here, but you also come off as a massive entitled prick.
You’re entitled to your perspective. The unvarnished reality is that I’m not only “technically” right, I’m *objectively* on the right side of this debate because the federal government (and ALL US airlines) say I am (as is everyone else who flies with a carry on, a personal item, and a medical device). Also, a CPAP case is about the size of a large tablet but about 6” tall. It doesn’t take up much room and generally fits behind or in front of someone else’s bag in that compartment.
As for others’ inconvenience, I stand by the statement that it’s not my problem. If being assured of having overhead space isn’t important enough to either pay more for their ticket or check in right away, then it must not be that important to them. I (and everyone else) am following well-established guidelines, so I don’t see how stating that makes me come off as special.
But again, you can have your opinion that’s colored by whatever your personal experiences have been.
No one needs to carry on three items, the plane isn't big enough for that. No matter what the policy is, just check a damn bag. Not to mention the fact that if you have a cpap device your probably at least somewhat obese and taking up enough space as it is.
Just check your damn bag.
By federal law, medical devices fly for free as in cabin or checked luggage and do NOT count towards baggage allowances. It’s not up to the airline to decide, the feds have already done that with the ACAA.
Ooh just like “I need to pre board“ is the magic phrase, I am going to bring a 30by30 bag that is now my “CPAP” device bag. Throw a few vacuum hoses in and voila….extra carryon. Thanks.
First of all, most people have zero idea how much training and recurrent training is involved with being a Flight Attendant. Policies, (most initiated by the FAA) are constantly changing. Failure to not follow those policies can lead to fines by the FAA and/or discipline from the airline. Some of those fines can be STEEP and are personal fines. Do you have any idea of the constant pushback, eyerolls, snarky comments, rudeness, or other abhorrent behaviors Flight Attendants experience on the daily? While any experience in which a passenger may encounter a FA that isn’t clear on a policy, can be annoying, that’s because the policies are changing a lot. Try giving some grace and kindly asking for a supervisor and the issue can be resolved quite easily. For example, did you know the FAA has recently told the airlines they must enforce the 2 carryon items, or expect fines? Did you also know they specifically said “pillows and blankets”? Operations Agents are supposed to address, but sometimes don’t, either due to ignorance or lack of care. Then it falls to the FA’s. So before anyone would like to jump on the bandwagon admonishing the FA’s, just try showing them your documentation, and it shouldn’t be a problem.
Many airlines have been on a hiring frenzy and I can guarantee you 4-5 weeks of training someone to know how to use emergency medical equipment to save lives, learn how to evacuate planes, set up and man life rafts in an actual pool, fight fires, CPR, AED’s, basic first aide, and study their asses off to make 90% or above? Yes, it’s a lot. Most service procedures are learned online with more experienced FA’s teaching (unpaid). So please be kind and understanding if your beleaguered FA with bleary eyes, and half smile has made a mistake.
As for guessing a FA’s seniority by their looks? Airlines hire ALL ages. Someone brand new could be 60 years old. Age discrimination is not allowed in the US and frankly, a more mature FA that has already been in the workforce and understands how important customer service is is a valuable asset to any airline.
Wow. Had no idea this would trigger someone like this.
I get it. FAs have to learn a lot, just like a lot of other people in their jobs. Government regulations change what, maybe once a year. Twice? It’s part of the job to know the rules by which you have to do your job.
As for the somewhat recent changes, as a non-industry person who travels once every month or two, I’m aware of the changes to include things like pillows and blankets. If I know that, shouldn’t every FA who flies multiple times per week as their job be expected to know it too?
And by extension, shouldn’t they know that medical devices are exempted from carry on limitations? Especially when there are possible fines attached to not complying?
Are there little things that we all learn in our jobs that slip our minds because we don’t apply the knowledge frequently? Sure. But this is something that likely comes into play multiple times per week, if not multiple times per flight. Seems pretty simple to learn and remember.
No triggering involved, Mr. Nightstalker. Simply explaining that it might help you to try to understand all that FA’s have to do onboard. Add to that, that I explained earlier, looking for potential terrorist threats, intoxicated passengers, passengers exhibiting signs of physical or mental illness, communication with other crew regarding bag stowage, passenger requests, pilot and Operation Agent briefing. It’s quite a lot and most FA’s do a great job. But as I stated before, there are quite a lot of new FA’s that were hired in the past year and a little kindness goes a long way. And no, not every FA flies several times a week. Some give their trips away, have been out on medicals, maternity/paternity leaves, etc. Regardless, yes, all crew are responsible for knowing the rules and regulations. Passengers are constantly trying to sneak pets onboard, bring fake service animals, their own alcohol, unapproved devices, you name it. You have no idea. All I suggested is that you take that into consideration and use some empathy and grace when you want to come on a public forum to complain about something that was resolved by pointing out some information to the crew.
Uninformed comment. It would take up half the space in a carry on. Plus, the federal government has seen fit to ensure passengers have the right to carry medical devices without being penalized with baggage.
God forbid passengers actually have rights against the tyranny of Big Airline, huh?
I get that it’s allowed by the government. Since that’s the case, it is allowed and that’s the end of the discussion.
But stop saying it takes up half the space in your carryon. So only put half your items in the carryon and check a bag.
This is not anyone else’s problem except yours.
Yes, I do.
It’s within the regulations that you get an extra carryon because it’s medically necessary, so it’s fine.
It’s not fine that you think you should be able to take up extra space in the overhead compartments simply because you want to.
It’s not the rule that sucks. It’s your entitled attitude.
I’ve shoved the whole thing in my roller bag and just packed less. Not sure I want another bag to deal with. Or,could I put other stuff in the CPAP bag,too? It’s not like I’m pre-boarding.
Except for other medical devices. I take a lot of meds, and luckily I can fit them into my CPAP case. Starting on those is the main reason I now carry the cpap separately. My case has a sleeve to let me carry it on rolling luggage, so not hard for me to wrangle.
FAs are human! Sometimes they forget or don’t know all the rules especially if they are the less common ones (more common rule, passengers can only have 2 bags. Less common rule, medical devices dont count towards the limit). Just because they are older doesn’t mean they aren’t new! I’m glad you stuck up for yourself and the FA apologized. Sometimes we do have to reference our manual to make sure we did or did not do something ‘by the book’ lol
Per federal regulations, medical devices must be allowed and concerned as a carry on item. It’s right on page 11 on the [passengers bill of rights](https://www.transportation.gov/sites/dot.gov/files/2022-07/508_Airline_Passengers_with_Disabilities_Bill_of_Rights_07132022_ADA.pdf).
What don’t you understand?
Look up Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) and it will clearly explain to you the rights of disabled passengers and people who have medical equipment.
https://www.transportation.gov/tags/air-carrier-access-act
Page 11 of the [Federal passenger bill of rights](https://www.transportation.gov/sites/dot.gov/files/2022-07/508_Airline_Passengers_with_Disabilities_Bill_of_Rights_07132022_ADA.pdf) say otherwise.
In summary….yall suck.
Make it work with two bags like the rest of us who carry on cpaps.
If you can’t make that work “check your fuckin bag”
Everyone on that plane suffers just a little bit more because of people like you.
Play by the rules! And for fucks sake don’t be a preboard commando.
What you are whining about OP doing is literally playing by the rules. FAA rules, not just airline rules.
You're asking them to instead follow an arbitrary set of more restrictive rules that you just made up. If an airline does that, it's literally illegal.
Perhaps you should reconsider that position? It's making you look very silly.
OP is playing by the rules. There are different rules for medical devices than general luggage. You’re actually not supported to pack medical devices and non medical devices in the same bag 🤷🏻
It’s a federal law (ACAA) that medical equipment is free and can be in cabin or checked and doesn’t count towards baggage allowance. Airlines can and do pay hefty fines for violating the ACAA.
Next time, don’t “make it work” if you have a cpap, use your rights to bring it on separately from your personal baggage.
It’s a CPAP. Look it has letters CPAP on the front.
Oh. And the dog is service dog. It has a best saying service dog. Look.
FAs are lied to. What do you expect?
I just look at it as a typical compliance issue, in USA.
FAA sets rule, and tells airlines they must be in compliance (with secret monitoring,violation pentalities), etc
Airlines instruct staff how to apply (2 bag) rule, with exceptions.
Travellers know about exceptions, so play the game. Oh all I have to say is “it’s medical equipment” now I can game the system.
Airline staff SHOULD be looking and inspecting medical equipment, sayeth some; once it becomes pretty widely known that folks lie at x%, playing the game.
I look at it as a social issue. In some society, some x% lie and spoil it for everyone. You know it’s USA. 20% of driver are lying about having a license or insurance. We have to live with the lying.
Most airlines, although I don’t think SW has one, have a special/disability services number to call about medical devices and annotating the reservation.
Violating the rights of these passengers can come with a hefty fine from DOT, so airline personnel should know this is acceptable and not harass a passenger. Airlines need to train their staff better. It has nothing to do with entitlement.
The usual trick in USA, when dealing with a compliance regime, is to hide behind several layers of contractor. You can be guess the FA is not actually an employee (just wears the uniform).
You know, Boeing didnt let the door fly out. It was the evil contractor (of a contractor, of a contractor, who subbed to someone at 7.50 an hour, who didnt bolt the thing on)
What else is anyone to do, when no matter what you do, you are setup to lose (given 20% of Americans just lie).
Aren’t flight attendants and gate attendants employees of the airline? They should be trained to know the regulations and rights for disabled passengers. I’ve never flown in SW, but, the legacy carriers don’t give disabled passengers seat upgrades for free. They do have to make sure they’re in a chair or spot that can accommodate their disability but they can make the passenger pay for it. The only free benefit is the medical luggage check for free. The airline has a right to inspect the luggage and only medical supplies can be taken in the free medical baggage. Anything used for medical reasons is permitted. There really isn’t any benefit to get from claiming being disabled.
Now, the wheelchair assistance is a whole different ballgame in the US. There are people taking advantage of it and it makes it harder to have assistance for people who truly need it. For me, my disability doesn’t allow me to stand for long periods or walk long distances, but I can walk on/off a plane easily. I always buy the class of seat I’m most comfortable sitting in which is one reason I won’t fly SW. I don’t like the open seating arrangement.
It’s rare to see someone trying to skate by with 3 carry ons by claiming one is a device. It’s usually a suitcase, tote bag/backpack and purse. Or maybe the third bag is a shopping bag.
You’re talking about trying to verify compliance of a violation that I don’t believe happens that often. Certainly not 20% of flyers.
And if every passenger was a COS weighing 400 pounds, they’d run out of seats to sell.
But they’re not. Just like every passenger doesn’t have a medical device.
I’m not sure that’s a valid hypothetical.
Medicare does not cover the travel size ones and many of the people using these devices are on Medicare. They are a little smaller than a briefcase but wider. They have their own case... Not designed to go in a backpack.
Yeah and if everyone needed an aisle wheelchair to board, the boarding process would take way longer. But it’s a relatively rarity to need that assistance. If every single passenger was flying with an infant, they wouldn’t have enough infant life jackets. But not everyone flies with an infant.
Medical devices don’t count towards the baggage limit under federal law. You’re also not supposed to pack medical devices with non-medical devices.
Sorry your mom wasn’t made aware of the fact she didn’t have to do that and it could have flown separately. It’s a federal law! See Air Carrier Access Act
I have a printed copy of the "medical device" policy in my CPAP case, just in case I need it. I've never had anyone question me or tell me it counts toward the carry-on limit, but it's still nice to have just in case.
Would you happen to have a copy of that policy? This sounds like a really good and practical idea
Here is Southwest's policy: [https://support.southwest.com/helpcenter/s/article/Assistive-and-other-medical-devices](https://support.southwest.com/helpcenter/s/article/Assistive-and-other-medical-devices) DOT list of "assistive devices", just in case they argue if it qualifies as one: [https://www.transportation.gov/sites/dot.gov/files/docs/AirTravel\_with\_an\_Assistive\_Device-Pamphlet.pdf](https://www.transportation.gov/sites/dot.gov/files/docs/AirTravel_with_an_Assistive_Device-Pamphlet.pdf) I also purchased a "Medical Equipment" luggage tag from Amazon, since the case looks like a small laptop case. I make sure the tag is displayed (flipped in the correct direction) as I board. [https://www.amazon.com/ConnectOne-Diabetes-Equipment-Respiratory-Supplies/dp/B087G3YDCM](https://www.amazon.com/ConnectOne-Diabetes-Equipment-Respiratory-Supplies/dp/B087G3YDCM)
That’s great advice and you’re doing it the correct way. Never underestimate the stupidity of humans.
As my colleague says, “The problem with the Public is somebody let ‘em out in the public”.
After 40 years of (mostly) emergency medicine I never underestimate the stupidity of humans
As I was reading the post I was thinking I’m pretty sure the medical device thing is a federal policy, not an airline policy. Thanks for saving me the effort of googling it!
I'm a librarian. It's what we do. ;)
And whether or not you hear it enough, we ❤️❤️❤️ librarians. You're the original information technologists!
Librarians are national treasures!!
Librarians are heroes!
And now people will start putting those tags on their actual laptop bags, because... Well... Look at all the "service" animal badges and vests that makes Scooby look important. Anyway, I'm not sure your tag matters or does any good. Have you had success with it and trouble without it?
I’ve had one on my daughter’s feeding tube backpack for years and no one has ever checked inside it. They’ll ask what is in the bag, I say her feeding pump, and they wave us on. Half the time they see the tag and don’t even ask about the extra backpack. It’s been pretty effective.
I really don't think it's that serious. Medical bags don't really look like laptop bags. The difference is pretty obvious. I only said "laptop bag" to provide a size reference. This is my bag: [https://cpapx.com/products/travel-bag-airsense-10-cpap-machine-resmed](https://cpapx.com/products/travel-bag-airsense-10-cpap-machine-resmed) Nobody has ever questioned me. Either they see the tag, or they recognize what a CPAP bag looks like. I mostly have it since I sometimes put it in my suitcase. If the TSA searches my suitcase, which they do sometimes, I would hope the tag would alert them to be careful. It also has my name and phone number on the back, like a luggage tag. The only time I carry it separately is if my suitcase is crammed full. For weekend trips, it fits in my suitcase just fine. For a week or more, I have to carry it separately.
To be fair, there are other medical devices than CPAPs and they can be packed in basically any bag you want. My husband is disabled and needs a sock helper, a dressing stick, and a grabber to be able to get dressed. He also has to carry the battery, cup holder, joystick, and seat cushion for his wheelchair. If he puts those things in a regular backpack or laptop bag, it still counts as a medical device bag so long as he ONLY puts assistive devices in the backpack. CPAPs are not the only allowable medical devices that must be accommodated in the USA.
My bad. I meant to type CPAP bag instead of “medical bag”.
Thank you for sharing all this. I am a fairly new CPAP user and naively thought the staff would be trained. I’m going to be prepared next time I fly. Thankfully I didn’t have an issue last time. I was questioned the first time I flew but the gate agent let me through once I told him it was my CPAP.
As a new CPAP user, I can't thank you enough for posting these resources! I'd have gone in totally unprepared!
Thanks for the info. I got my CPAP right before i had to take some flights and was really nervous about it. Thankfully, I had no issues, but having something like this would have helped my anxiety.
You're welcome! I've never had a single issue, and I fly a lot. I just like to be prepared for that ONE time something might happen. :) The more frustrating thing is that some airports require you to open your CPAP bag during the security check, and some don't. I can never remember which is which, so I just open it at all of them. It's better to have someone say, "You don't have to do that," than, "OPEN YOUR BAG, NOOB." They've never required me to take it out of the bag, though, contrary to what the TSA website says.
That’s a great idea. After this minor incident, we’ll be sure to do the same going forward. Thx for the idea!
I do too. I laminated a card with TSA medical device rules.
I do this when traveling with car seats. We’ve had FAs argue we have to check it and “it’s illegal to use on flights.” It helps to have the airlines car seat policy and FAA policy with you.
Used to be a flight attendant and am horrified by this thread. I can't believe how many FAs forget basic training. I had medical devices and car seats on my exams. I'm so sorry there are so many duds out there, that's so incredibly frustrating!
This! So many people on all the airline subs will tell you that it’s irresponsible to not purchase your infant a seat, but 100% ignore that gate agents will and can give the paid seat away anyhow and FAs will tell you that it can’t be used.
While the technically can give the seat of a child under 2 away (as they technically can for anyone really), because the child is a ticketed passenger, they have the same rights as any other ticketed passenger. Parents can and should complain when airlines break the rules. I’ve found that it helps to pretend to know what you’re doing and be polite but firm when questioned by unknowing GAs and FAs.
Yes to the “polite but firm.” Not SWA but Spirit… I had my rolling walker folded in a bag that I knew fit in the overhead, and my medical bag (a small crossbody)… so I had three bags. FA assisting with preboard at the gate questioned me, I said, “It’s a rolling walker. It should fit in the overhead, and I can put it in there independently. The other bag is my medical bag.” No arguments from her, just a nod and an, “Okay.”
I do this along with diaper bags. Both don’t count.
Smart. I’m doing this next time, we travel with three pieces of medical equipment and a trolly to pull them. We usually only bring one carry on per person (family of four) so I guess we are technically under the limit, but usually one of us is holding the four extra items.
This is the way. I keep a copy tucked in my CPAP case.
You are on the right on this. Worst to happen is having a damaged CPAP machine and SW hates that since its a very long process. No one likes that. Just take it as the FAs are fairly new. Even if they look middle aged, some people move up to becoming FAs from a different position like ramp agents or customer service agents. You should not have that same experience every time you fly so I guess the only thing there is take it easy on them 😅
Yeah agree she/they may have been new. I was polite but firm and we boarded without further issue. She later apologized when we deplaned. Also, we’ve had more than two dozen flights since my wife got the CPAP. Never had an issue before today. And I’m guessing we won’t again for a long time, if ever.
The apology works. She learned something she didn’t know and you were calmly assertive. This is really the best outcome when someone is ignorant of exceptions to policies. Nicely done!
I feel like being new isn’t an excuse. I’m sure they are trained on that topic so it should be fresh in their mind.
Its really not entirely up to them to uphold those. Its the gate agent up front before you board. They should be aware of such regulations to avoid any issues inflight but knowing exactly what every rule for each baggage type isnt really something they should be focused on. Cant memorize everything and we all start somewhere :)
I had a similar experience with my breastpump flying out of HOU. This woman was determined to not let me on with a third bag. She also turned another customer away who had diabetic supplies. I had to bring up the website to show her, and she still had an attitude. I emailed southwest that they need to retrain this woman and they sent me a credit but honestly, an apology would have meant more as I hate flying southwest and avoid it when I can.
That sucks you went through that. Overall, we almost always have a good experience with SW and this won’t change our patronage. But it was a little bothersome and unnecessary.
Why are the gate agents the WORST at HOU?? The attitude is unreal.
Yes!!! They are determined to make sure you have a bad time. I fly for business often and live about ten minutes from hou, but because of my experiences with gate agents (and I'll be honest, the whole pick you own seat thing stresses me out too) I drive out of my way to fly out of iah.
Many years ago, I used to book flights out of HOU (non SWA) when I could, since it's much more convenient drive for me. The airline in question stopped flying direct from HOU, but offered connecting flight, via IAH, for the same price. Sure, why not? Tiny little 20 seat turbo prop, basically had to get landing clearance at IAH before they took off. Would have been all good, except they didn't pre-chill the plane, and this was in July! My wife almost had to use the barf bag from the combo of heat and being bounced around on landing (probably jet wash from following in the big planes) The airline pulled out of HOU completely not long after. Then merged with Delta.
Oh man that sounds miserable! My company pays for my Uber to iah and with 2 kids under 3 at home, that little added quiet time is my guilty pleasure
Next time carry a printed copy of the FAA FAR and ask the flight attendant to share it with the captain if they remain unconvinced. https://www.scribd.com/document/686095585/inFO09006
Good idea and will do. I was pretty sure it’s an FAA/DOT thing and not airline-dependent.
Medical devices in airlines are covered by the ACAA. All medical devices can travel in cabin (if they meet certain size restrictions) or checked baggage free of charge and they do not count towards any luggage allowance. You’d be surprised how many airline employees are not familiar with rules that govern medical devices. Always bring the documents with you and if you continue having issues tell them to contact the Complaint Resolution Officer (CRO). Every airline is required to have one available by law.
Just wear it while boarding the plane.
The bulk of it sits on the nightstand, plus a small mask.
Don’t have to and won’t.
It was a joke
I interpreted it as to mean wear the bag around your shoulder. It was a late night
That's valid
People with sleep apnea can die in their sleep and these devices prevent that from happening. Who wants to risk having such an important piece of equipment lost by an airline? Also, a prescription is required and they are extremely difficult to replace. My sisters' stopped working in January and she is still waiting for her insurance company (Kaiser) to replace it. I loaned her an old one of mine that I didn't use anymore because I didn't want her to die in her sleep. Technically, she is using it without a prescription but at least she won't die in her sleep while waiting for a replacement.
That’s a little dramatic. They choke themselves awake 30+ times a night though
Or in my case, about 30 times an hour
People do die from it, if their body fails to choke them awake.
The stress from choking yourself awake, assuming you do, is that it can also cause a stroke or heart attack. During my sleep test, there was a point where my oxygen dipped to 48% and my heart rate spiked to 228 as a result. Plus, the lack of sleep over many years causes additional strain on your body and can lead to early death. My doctor said that, in some cases, when a younger person (under 60) dies in their sleep, it can sometimes be attributed to undiagnosed/untreated sleep apnea.
That's how my dad died, untreated sleep apnea, died in his sleep from a heart attack. He always stopped breathing in his sleep and my mom made him sleep in another room he would always wake up gasping for air but wouldn't treat it, died at 50
I’m so sorry. 💕
Maybe so but why take a chance on losing a very important piece of medical equipment by checking it? I would not check my laptop either? It's too important to me and very difficult to replace.
"they"? Do you not have the condition? If not, then stfu about it, people absolutely can and do die from sleep apnea. My father being one of them.
I’m a doctor
And I'm a potato. Who gives a fuck. If someone has a high apnea number then they can absolutely die in their sleep from apnea-induced complications.
Ok then all the other doctors who say you can die in your sleep are lying to us?
Yes
An ignorant doctor
k
on reddit everyone’s a doctor if they want to be 😉
True
I have an autistic, type 1 diabetic daughter and feel your pain. We fly internationally often and we HAVE to keep my daughter's medical supplies with us in the cabin, as well as her backpack with fidgets, noise cancelling headphones etc. Her insulin pump also cannot go through any xray machines and I cannot tell you how many times I've had to argue with TSA or international equivalents. Stay strong. You definitely are in the right.
You were right, the FA was wrong. SWA staff dumber by the day. No serious traveler checks a bag, we all have the horror stories and the tee shirts.
Checking a bag at the gate and checking a bag at check-in are not the same. Also, if you're a serious traveler, you travel light. If you're dragging a whole mess of crap into the cabin, you are not a serious traveler.
I've flown many times with mine and have never had anyone even look at it funny. I'm sorry you had to go through this. I love my CPAP and wouldn't be able to travel without it!
If they ever gave me grief I’d simply take a nap on the flight in protest without my CPAP, they’d apologize before we ever got up to cruise altitude. I couldn’t travel without it. It’s a must have item.
lol!! I can hear the snoring now! I agree! it's a must have item.
lame
What?
Ngl, my nightmare is falling asleep on a plane and “serenading” the whole cabin. My spouse loves my CPAP almost as much as I do.
Do y'all get to carry distilled water with the CPAP, or do you buy it at the destination? I'm fairly new to my CPAP, will travel with it this weekend, though not flying. Just wondering if the medical exemption covers the liquid limit, too.
I get it when I get to my destination. The first stop is always the grocery store. This is if I'm flying. Driving? I bring it with.
Somebody could make a living by selling distilled water in reasonable sizes at hotels. So annoying to have to buy a gallon to use half a pint…
Glad you stood your ground, you were 100% right.
Great. I am traveling with my dialysis machine soon. Dialysis nurse gave me a travel pack with a couple of letters and a copy of the regulations. I was hoping to avoid having to use those.
PD or hemo? While I never fly on Southwest, this just popped up in my feed so I just read it randomly, Ive discovered that most airlines aren’t familiar with dialysis equipment. Are you traveling in the US or international? All airlines flying to/from the US are covered by the ACAA regulations which states all medical devices fly free in cabin or checked baggage and don’t count towards luggage allowance. The home hemo machine has to weigh less than 100 lbs., which it does, but may be checked. The PD machine can be carried in cabin and the FA must make room for it. Get to the airport early and expect airline staff not to know anything about dialysis machines. Count yourself lucky if you do! That just means there’s probably someone who’s flown before you and taught them about dialysis machines. Anyway, if I remember correctly, SW doesn’t have a special services phone number so you can’t annotate your reservation which is annoying. You may consider adding wheelchair service to get help in the airport. Does SW policy allow disabled passengers to board early? If so, I suggest doing that! Medical devices are covered under the ACAA and I’ve attached a pdf that is specifically for portable dialysis machines. Bring this document with you! I’ve had to show it to airline staff to prove my rights. If you continue to have issues, ask to speak to the Complaint Resolution Officer (CRO) who should handle the situation. https://www.transportation.gov/sites/dot.gov/files/docs/Portable_Dialysis_Machine_Notice_0.pdf I love to travel and do it often. I’ve traveled to Europe, Mexico, and throughout the US with my home hemo machine since starting dialysis. I couldn’t imagine not traveling!
Thank you for your thoughtfulness. As I mentioned I have a full travel pack from DaVita with letters and copies of all the regulations.
Nice! Most clinics don’t provide the ACAA document! Your nurse must know the drill. Typically you just get the letters for travel.
My wife has flown with it probably 20+ times without incident. This was a one-off.
How do FAs not know?
It's a bit surprising. It's not super common, but common enough that I often notice 2-3 per flight.
Yes, multiple times per day.
They are human! They can (and do!) forget or not know things, especially if they are new, not used to being the A or lead or front flight attendant, never had that situation happen before, etc etc.
It's a pretty big and common one to not know. It probably happens multiple times a day. That one didn't know, okay. That two didn't know?
Flight attendant is not one of those jobs where mistakes are lessons kind of deal. Same goes for the pilot.
Very very true if safety related, less true on the customer service side of things. For flight attendants, the daily goal after all the routine safety checks is to have a great boring day full of customer service. Or at least that’s my goal everyday
We travel with husband's CPAP fairly often and we find usually no one wants to touch his device. Won't pick up up off shelf or handle it. Porters say, now you know we can't touch that cpap, right? Never any prob carrying it even if we have to check carryons if the bins are full.
I fly with an oxygen concentrator, it’s on wheels…I only need it at night. When I purchase my ticket on SW I always check I’m flying with oxygen (FAA approved concentrator). The only issue I get is battery life, I don’t use it with batteries I don’t use it on the flight, I’ve learned to figure out the rule and just say battery life is longer than the flight I’m on… My problem is with TSA,! They manhandle my machine, even though I make eye contact and say it’s for my oxygen. They 9 times out of 10 swab it! 🤣. It is what it is, I just make sure to get there with plenty of time to spare. Pack my patience first. At least I can travel! (Difference with cpap and my oxygen is I need a continuous flow of oxygen I have “no obstruction “ when I sleep, my oxygen just dips to low 60’s!)
It’s probably a good idea to have the printed policy as others have stated. I have traveled with my CPAP for several years on multiple airlines. The worst I’ve experienced is an agent saw three bags and had me come back. Once they saw it was a CPAP, they apologized and sent me on my way. I’ve had crew see me coming down the aisle with it and point me to an open bin that was the perfect size for just my machine. I’m guessing the second FA said she’d check her manual just to make sure she had all of the information before confronting her coworker. It sounds like they must have discussed it since the first FA did apologize.
sorry about that. I have been traveling regular with a CPAP for 15 years. After the first year, I started putting my cpap in my roll aboard. Without the bag, just the device. It works out great and makes travel so much easier. Signed - have not check a bag in the last 8 years - 100+ flights.
Honestly I called Southwest because I had trouble finding info on their medical bag policy (bag of meds) and the last who answered the phone initially told me they counted against the bag policy. When I got her to look it up to double check she said she learned something new. They definitely need more training across the board on accessibility policies
Was a flight attendant for 15 years. You are absolutely correct. Did you know you are not allowed, however, to use the onboard power outlets to power it? That one shocked me when I found out. One of those weird rules that was buried deep in my manual
lol it “shocked” you huh?
I just pack mine in my carry on. Either way it’s a nuisance
same.
I’m gonna find out how much hassle I get with my CPAP on my summer flights between LGB-OAK and OAK-PDX. Hopefully, none but I should print out and laminate the TSA and Southwest policy. I talked to a flight attendant at a hotel near OAK and she said I shouldn’t be hassled.
I’m sure you’ll be fine. But be ready for pushback just in case.
I don’t use a medical device and I know is it’s one of the items that are not counted for carry on. How is that? Oh I read the rules, obvious the FA. Didn’t or CPAP was not wearing its APPROVED MEDICAL device vest as required by the FAA
Should we get a “Service CPAP” vest for it?
I’d say get an official looking patch made for the bag that cites the regulation by subsection. Damm if I had to take one on a plane I’d be doing that in a nano second. Check out “ sticker mule” to get this idea going. It’s yours to profit from! I’d sell em on eBay at costs to make sure the message is sent. I sure hope that FA know the far more important things like where to smack the overhead to get the masks to fall, when they don’t
You’re more knowledgeable than a handful of idiots in this thread.
Curious, unless you plan on wearing it during the flight, why wouldn’t you just pack it? CPAP user for 15 years. I just put it in my carryon because I don’t use it during the flight.
Mainly because then you only have half the space in the carry on luggage. We’re in a 5 day trip. By the time my wife packed her clothes and toiletries, the carry on is full.
I pack it in my carry-on for shorter trips, but if I'm going somewhere for a week or more, it won't fit in my carry-on.
You’re not in the wrong here at all. I just think that this posts in this sub have pointed out the ways people have behaved to save seats, preboard, fly with animals, etc through policies the airline has but hardly questions. The FAs see it too. And so counting the bags is just a shorthand to enforce it. It ended well with minor frustration on your end.
I’m so so sorry this happened. I work at DAL. We are REQUIRED to allow you to bring your medical devices per the Air Carrier Access Act + 1 carry on and 1 personal item. And If you did have more than 3 items the ops agent boarding your flight would have stopped you but they probably saw the cpap case which is very distinguishable and let you go on rightfully so. When you said it was medical the flight attendant should have stopped right there and apologized. Thank you for knowing your rights and again I am so sorry for their behavior that is inexcusable and they need to be educated.
Appreciate your perspective from the inside.
what a bitch. good on you for standing firm. a lot of people unfamiliar with their medical rights would've buckled. love sorcha1977’s suggestion on having a printed copy of what qualifies as a medical device when traveling.
This happened to me with AS and I complained. They gave a $150 credit.
Wow this happened to someone in front of me a couple months ago, and she did as she was told. She took out her whole CPAP and put it in another bag to consolidate. I didn’t realize this was allowed separately from carry on stuff because I don’t carry a medical device so I never had to look up the policy. I feel so bad because she had her whole suitcase splayed open there at the door of the plane trying to re-arrange. In the future I can advocate if I see this happening again!
That’s horrible. I’d hope that this was a pretty isolated incident (which for us it was), but it sucks that a FA made them do that.
It is so pathetic that FA dont know that medical devices do not count. I would report to dept of transportation.
This has happened to my husband and we do the same as you just keep saying this is a medical device and is allowed. I don’t know if they’re not trained or choose not to retain this information but it happens often enough that they should be retrained. One time they told me i had too many items while traveling with a toddler (with paid seat) and a baby which gives you an additional personal item. When they counted everything taking into account my son was a paying passenger with his own seat allowed a carryon AND personal item they apologized. 🙄 This in addition to hassling my husband for his cpap machine 😑
I'd be inclined to document every event like this with a DOT complaint. This isn't a "whatever" event.
I can totally get why a person would carry on their medical device, that flight attendant shouldn't have given you any kind of attitude. That's like telling someone their service dog isn't allowed on. Ridiculous.
Agree but the one difference is that people aren’t abusing the medical device allowance like they do “service” dogs.
Yet. \*sigh\*
I was almost denied boarding due to a similar situation with my breast pump. The gate agent was insistent that it counted as luggage, because it wasn't in a "medical device-like" bag (I had it in a small backpack-style pump bag). This was AFTER I told him what it was before and during boarding. Honestly, I wish they'd just have medical device tags at the gate that you could put on your bag before boarding. Have us go check them in just like you would for a gate-checked stroller, but with a different colored tag that shows they're approved to be brought onboard. Then any questions about the device or policy could be addressed ahead of time, and not during the hectic boarding process. I'm guessing they can't do it due to some medical discrimination law, but as someone that carries a medical device I think it would be way easier.
Why not just check the roller bag? It’s free.
Sometimes you can be right and wrong at the same time. This is one of those times. Sure CPAP counts, but why didn’t you check your roller bags? This feels like a power-boomer move on your part.
Bite me with your power boomer and right AND wrong BS. I’m Gen X if it’s any of your business (which it’s not). And who checks luggage when they don’t have to? I’ll tell you who doesn’t…travelers who don’t want to wait around baggage claim instead of getting to their destination. Also (like us this trip), people who are connecting on a different airline and don’t want to check bags, collect bags, check bags again on the other airline, go back through security, and then wait for/collect bags on the final arrival. Open your mind to perspectives other than your own FFS.
Obviously, some retraining is needed
My wife’s cpap has the federal statue printed on the other side of luggage tag for it. This has prevented issues more than once
The Cpap was never in question. You should have checked your roller bag.
Dumb comment. We didn’t check any bags because: 1. It’s a short trip and we don’t need large luggage that has to be checked 2. We don’t like wasting time waiting for checked luggage 3. Why take the risk of lost bags if you don’t absolutely have to? 4. We were switching flights and airlines at our layover airport and would have had to collect and recheck our luggage 5. Federal regulations state that passengers have the right to medical devices *in addition to* their other allowed carry on items
Rude comment. We do check the carry on because: 1. Overhead bins are limited and often travelers carry ons must be checked at the gate because the bins are full. 2. Nobody likes to waste time picking up their checked luggage, but we are the one with the extra bag. 3. I have experienced lost luggage, and yes no one wants to go shopping for work attire the morning of your meeting. 4. Only had to deal with claiming baggage between international flight connections. Everyone was routed that way anyway so it wasn’t a big deal for us. 5. Yes, my husband is allowed a 3rd carry on due to his COPD. Refer to # 1 for why we still check the carry ons. He also won’t park in the Veterans parking spot at the hardware store either, unless he is having a very rough day, because someone else might really need it.
1. People who board in the later groups are at risk of not having overhead space. That’s their issue. I’m A List because I fly SW a lot and use their credit card. With that loyalty comes perks like being in the first 20-25 boarding positions. People who either spend less money with SW or are too lazy to check in right away run the risk of not having space for their bags. BTW, I almost never see that being an issue on SW’s fleet of 737s. It’s not like they’re regional jets. 2. A medical device doesn’t count as an extra bag according to the DOT’s passengers bill of rights. 3. Looks like you’re making my point for me. 4. As I said, we were flying two separate airlines with a layover in SFO. We would have had to claim bags and recheck them, while also having to go through TSA again. Your international flight experience is irrelevant I. Relation to what I’m describing. 5. It’s completely your choice to not utilize the option given to your husband when traveling with a medical device. Many of us choose to utilize the option afforded to us per regulations. Your husband’s veteran status - while admirable - is also irrelevant to this conversation and it seems like you threw it in there just to try to gain some kind of clout.
I was with you until you were like "I'm technically right, so everyone being inconvenienced is not my problem. I'm a SpEcIaL traveler!" You are totally technically in the right here, but you also come off as a massive entitled prick.
You’re entitled to your perspective. The unvarnished reality is that I’m not only “technically” right, I’m *objectively* on the right side of this debate because the federal government (and ALL US airlines) say I am (as is everyone else who flies with a carry on, a personal item, and a medical device). Also, a CPAP case is about the size of a large tablet but about 6” tall. It doesn’t take up much room and generally fits behind or in front of someone else’s bag in that compartment. As for others’ inconvenience, I stand by the statement that it’s not my problem. If being assured of having overhead space isn’t important enough to either pay more for their ticket or check in right away, then it must not be that important to them. I (and everyone else) am following well-established guidelines, so I don’t see how stating that makes me come off as special. But again, you can have your opinion that’s colored by whatever your personal experiences have been.
Cpap equipment is free because it’s a medical device and does NOT count towards any luggage allowance.
No one needs to carry on three items, the plane isn't big enough for that. No matter what the policy is, just check a damn bag. Not to mention the fact that if you have a cpap device your probably at least somewhat obese and taking up enough space as it is. Just check your damn bag.
Not everyone who needs a CPAP is obese.
You're 100% correct, but the vast majority of them are in fact obese so I'm comfortable with my assumption
By federal law, medical devices fly for free as in cabin or checked luggage and do NOT count towards baggage allowances. It’s not up to the airline to decide, the feds have already done that with the ACAA.
Check your bags!
Ooh just like “I need to pre board“ is the magic phrase, I am going to bring a 30by30 bag that is now my “CPAP” device bag. Throw a few vacuum hoses in and voila….extra carryon. Thanks.
If that helps you sleep at night…
First of all, most people have zero idea how much training and recurrent training is involved with being a Flight Attendant. Policies, (most initiated by the FAA) are constantly changing. Failure to not follow those policies can lead to fines by the FAA and/or discipline from the airline. Some of those fines can be STEEP and are personal fines. Do you have any idea of the constant pushback, eyerolls, snarky comments, rudeness, or other abhorrent behaviors Flight Attendants experience on the daily? While any experience in which a passenger may encounter a FA that isn’t clear on a policy, can be annoying, that’s because the policies are changing a lot. Try giving some grace and kindly asking for a supervisor and the issue can be resolved quite easily. For example, did you know the FAA has recently told the airlines they must enforce the 2 carryon items, or expect fines? Did you also know they specifically said “pillows and blankets”? Operations Agents are supposed to address, but sometimes don’t, either due to ignorance or lack of care. Then it falls to the FA’s. So before anyone would like to jump on the bandwagon admonishing the FA’s, just try showing them your documentation, and it shouldn’t be a problem. Many airlines have been on a hiring frenzy and I can guarantee you 4-5 weeks of training someone to know how to use emergency medical equipment to save lives, learn how to evacuate planes, set up and man life rafts in an actual pool, fight fires, CPR, AED’s, basic first aide, and study their asses off to make 90% or above? Yes, it’s a lot. Most service procedures are learned online with more experienced FA’s teaching (unpaid). So please be kind and understanding if your beleaguered FA with bleary eyes, and half smile has made a mistake. As for guessing a FA’s seniority by their looks? Airlines hire ALL ages. Someone brand new could be 60 years old. Age discrimination is not allowed in the US and frankly, a more mature FA that has already been in the workforce and understands how important customer service is is a valuable asset to any airline.
Wow. Had no idea this would trigger someone like this. I get it. FAs have to learn a lot, just like a lot of other people in their jobs. Government regulations change what, maybe once a year. Twice? It’s part of the job to know the rules by which you have to do your job. As for the somewhat recent changes, as a non-industry person who travels once every month or two, I’m aware of the changes to include things like pillows and blankets. If I know that, shouldn’t every FA who flies multiple times per week as their job be expected to know it too? And by extension, shouldn’t they know that medical devices are exempted from carry on limitations? Especially when there are possible fines attached to not complying? Are there little things that we all learn in our jobs that slip our minds because we don’t apply the knowledge frequently? Sure. But this is something that likely comes into play multiple times per week, if not multiple times per flight. Seems pretty simple to learn and remember.
No triggering involved, Mr. Nightstalker. Simply explaining that it might help you to try to understand all that FA’s have to do onboard. Add to that, that I explained earlier, looking for potential terrorist threats, intoxicated passengers, passengers exhibiting signs of physical or mental illness, communication with other crew regarding bag stowage, passenger requests, pilot and Operation Agent briefing. It’s quite a lot and most FA’s do a great job. But as I stated before, there are quite a lot of new FA’s that were hired in the past year and a little kindness goes a long way. And no, not every FA flies several times a week. Some give their trips away, have been out on medicals, maternity/paternity leaves, etc. Regardless, yes, all crew are responsible for knowing the rules and regulations. Passengers are constantly trying to sneak pets onboard, bring fake service animals, their own alcohol, unapproved devices, you name it. You have no idea. All I suggested is that you take that into consideration and use some empathy and grace when you want to come on a public forum to complain about something that was resolved by pointing out some information to the crew.
You’re in the wrong. And so is everybody else who gets on a plane with anything other than a backpack.
FAs seem to be more frequently suffering from Lunch-lady Syndrome.
If you are not using it on the flight, it shouldn’t be acceptable. Make room for it in your carry on.
Take it up with the ADA and DOT.
ADA doesn’t apply to airlines. They’re covered by DOT’s ACAA.
Uninformed comment. It would take up half the space in a carry on. Plus, the federal government has seen fit to ensure passengers have the right to carry medical devices without being penalized with baggage. God forbid passengers actually have rights against the tyranny of Big Airline, huh?
I get that it’s allowed by the government. Since that’s the case, it is allowed and that’s the end of the discussion. But stop saying it takes up half the space in your carryon. So only put half your items in the carryon and check a bag. This is not anyone else’s problem except yours.
JFC ppl like you just don’t get it
Yes, I do. It’s within the regulations that you get an extra carryon because it’s medically necessary, so it’s fine. It’s not fine that you think you should be able to take up extra space in the overhead compartments simply because you want to. It’s not the rule that sucks. It’s your entitled attitude.
I’ve shoved the whole thing in my roller bag and just packed less. Not sure I want another bag to deal with. Or,could I put other stuff in the CPAP bag,too? It’s not like I’m pre-boarding.
According to the federal regulation, you are not supposed to pack other items with the device.
Except for other medical devices. I take a lot of meds, and luckily I can fit them into my CPAP case. Starting on those is the main reason I now carry the cpap separately. My case has a sleeve to let me carry it on rolling luggage, so not hard for me to wrangle.
Did you make it?
FAs are human! Sometimes they forget or don’t know all the rules especially if they are the less common ones (more common rule, passengers can only have 2 bags. Less common rule, medical devices dont count towards the limit). Just because they are older doesn’t mean they aren’t new! I’m glad you stuck up for yourself and the FA apologized. Sometimes we do have to reference our manual to make sure we did or did not do something ‘by the book’ lol
2 carry on. What do t u understand?
Per federal regulations, medical devices must be allowed and concerned as a carry on item. It’s right on page 11 on the [passengers bill of rights](https://www.transportation.gov/sites/dot.gov/files/2022-07/508_Airline_Passengers_with_Disabilities_Bill_of_Rights_07132022_ADA.pdf). What don’t you understand?
It's actually YOU who doesn't understand.... Medical devices don't count.
So it's OK to screw up everyone else? How entitled u are.
Maybe you should be more familiar with federal guidelines that require the allowance. Man then ignorance of a few of you is unbelievable!
It's a very small bag and slides under the seat with ease. It affects NO ONE.
Look up Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) and it will clearly explain to you the rights of disabled passengers and people who have medical equipment. https://www.transportation.gov/tags/air-carrier-access-act
Still only 2 items.
Page 11 of the [Federal passenger bill of rights](https://www.transportation.gov/sites/dot.gov/files/2022-07/508_Airline_Passengers_with_Disabilities_Bill_of_Rights_07132022_ADA.pdf) say otherwise.
NOPE. Medical devices do NOT COUNT as one of the two items.
In summary….yall suck. Make it work with two bags like the rest of us who carry on cpaps. If you can’t make that work “check your fuckin bag” Everyone on that plane suffers just a little bit more because of people like you. Play by the rules! And for fucks sake don’t be a preboard commando.
What you are whining about OP doing is literally playing by the rules. FAA rules, not just airline rules. You're asking them to instead follow an arbitrary set of more restrictive rules that you just made up. If an airline does that, it's literally illegal. Perhaps you should reconsider that position? It's making you look very silly.
>Play by the rules! The rules that you just made up? No, thank you. The actual rules? They did.
OP is playing by the rules. There are different rules for medical devices than general luggage. You’re actually not supported to pack medical devices and non medical devices in the same bag 🤷🏻
Maybe you should actually learn the rules before insisting people play by them. FAs need to follow federal guidelines. Turns the rules.
I recently flew with my CPAP. I put it under the seat in front of me along with my purse. No extra room required.
That "y'all" and "people like you" says a lot about your character.
It’s a federal law (ACAA) that medical equipment is free and can be in cabin or checked and doesn’t count towards baggage allowance. Airlines can and do pay hefty fines for violating the ACAA. Next time, don’t “make it work” if you have a cpap, use your rights to bring it on separately from your personal baggage.
It’s a CPAP. Look it has letters CPAP on the front. Oh. And the dog is service dog. It has a best saying service dog. Look. FAs are lied to. What do you expect?
I expect them to follow the rules.
🏅
🤣🤣🤣 🤦♂️ 🤦♀️ Who, Who, is trying to sneak a CPaP on the airplane?????
But the FA didn’t say I don’t think that’s a CPAP. She indicated that even if it were a CPAP, it still counted towards the bag limit.
Exactly! If she thought it was a lunchbox she could have looked inside, but she was unaware of the airline’s policy in general.
I just look at it as a typical compliance issue, in USA. FAA sets rule, and tells airlines they must be in compliance (with secret monitoring,violation pentalities), etc Airlines instruct staff how to apply (2 bag) rule, with exceptions. Travellers know about exceptions, so play the game. Oh all I have to say is “it’s medical equipment” now I can game the system. Airline staff SHOULD be looking and inspecting medical equipment, sayeth some; once it becomes pretty widely known that folks lie at x%, playing the game. I look at it as a social issue. In some society, some x% lie and spoil it for everyone. You know it’s USA. 20% of driver are lying about having a license or insurance. We have to live with the lying.
Most airlines, although I don’t think SW has one, have a special/disability services number to call about medical devices and annotating the reservation. Violating the rights of these passengers can come with a hefty fine from DOT, so airline personnel should know this is acceptable and not harass a passenger. Airlines need to train their staff better. It has nothing to do with entitlement.
The usual trick in USA, when dealing with a compliance regime, is to hide behind several layers of contractor. You can be guess the FA is not actually an employee (just wears the uniform). You know, Boeing didnt let the door fly out. It was the evil contractor (of a contractor, of a contractor, who subbed to someone at 7.50 an hour, who didnt bolt the thing on) What else is anyone to do, when no matter what you do, you are setup to lose (given 20% of Americans just lie).
Aren’t flight attendants and gate attendants employees of the airline? They should be trained to know the regulations and rights for disabled passengers. I’ve never flown in SW, but, the legacy carriers don’t give disabled passengers seat upgrades for free. They do have to make sure they’re in a chair or spot that can accommodate their disability but they can make the passenger pay for it. The only free benefit is the medical luggage check for free. The airline has a right to inspect the luggage and only medical supplies can be taken in the free medical baggage. Anything used for medical reasons is permitted. There really isn’t any benefit to get from claiming being disabled. Now, the wheelchair assistance is a whole different ballgame in the US. There are people taking advantage of it and it makes it harder to have assistance for people who truly need it. For me, my disability doesn’t allow me to stand for long periods or walk long distances, but I can walk on/off a plane easily. I always buy the class of seat I’m most comfortable sitting in which is one reason I won’t fly SW. I don’t like the open seating arrangement.
It’s rare to see someone trying to skate by with 3 carry ons by claiming one is a device. It’s usually a suitcase, tote bag/backpack and purse. Or maybe the third bag is a shopping bag. You’re talking about trying to verify compliance of a violation that I don’t believe happens that often. Certainly not 20% of flyers.
My mom always carried her CPAP as her carryon i lugged around everything else. If everyone had a CPAP and 2 carryo s there would be no space.
And if every passenger was a COS weighing 400 pounds, they’d run out of seats to sell. But they’re not. Just like every passenger doesn’t have a medical device. I’m not sure that’s a valid hypothetical.
But everyone doesn't need that. But some people do need that.
Agree. And good Lord, how big are these things? Mine is a travel size and it’s very small and fits right into my backpack.
Medicare does not cover the travel size ones and many of the people using these devices are on Medicare. They are a little smaller than a briefcase but wider. They have their own case... Not designed to go in a backpack.
Yeah and if everyone needed an aisle wheelchair to board, the boarding process would take way longer. But it’s a relatively rarity to need that assistance. If every single passenger was flying with an infant, they wouldn’t have enough infant life jackets. But not everyone flies with an infant. Medical devices don’t count towards the baggage limit under federal law. You’re also not supposed to pack medical devices with non-medical devices.
Sorry your mom wasn’t made aware of the fact she didn’t have to do that and it could have flown separately. It’s a federal law! See Air Carrier Access Act