I will be taking a long flight and I'm sure I will want to snooze during the flight.  Is there a mask that is suitable to use on an airline flight?  Has anyone used their machine on a plane flight before?  If so, how did it work?

janc,

I don't believe that any one mask is better for air travel than another.  What I can tell you (and there are several threads on here about this particular subject), is that the Transportation Board has declared that you can carry on your CPAP machine and it isn't counted as a carry on.  You might want to contact the airline ahead of time and make them aware that you need a seat close to an electrical outlet as well.  Anybody else, please chime in with other advice I haven't thought of.  Happy traveling and sweet dreams.


_________________
<>< Sleepy Scott <><
Job 7:13-15

Janc: What mask and machine do you use now? Some may be better to use than others. We can give you some hints better if we know what you have. By the way, if it’s on your own dime you can buy as many masks and machines as you want. And if you buy them online you will pay at least a ¼ of what a typical DME/HME will charge you. Just do a search for online resellers. Sleepy Scott is right with what he says plus you should call the airline and get it cleared ahead of time.

Janc,

Sleepy Scott is right; you can carry on your CPAP and related equipments as "medical equipment," so it doesn't count as part of your limit.  I've done that several times, for both domestic and international travel, with US-flag and non-US carriers, and have had no trouble.  

Actually using CPAP during a flight is another story, and it's a "dynamic" one (in other words, it's an area that's changing).  Some airlines don't allow it, and I believe one carrier freely allows it.  Other carriers allow it if you do paperwork ahead of time.  I'm not current on what's allowed now.  There's a possible move afoot to require carriers to allow CPAP use during a flight; I don't remember the particulars.  I've never tried to use my CPAP during flight, even during transatlantic flights.

- Ridge Runner

Thanks a bunch everyone.  I spoke with the travel company today and they mentioned I would not be able to use the machine in flight.  The flight is only 5 hours - it's during the night, but I should still be okay.  
This is such a great forum for all of us sleep apnea folks!  Thanks again.