Can You Take An Inhaler On A Plane

If you have a respiratory condition like asthma and must use an inhaler when necessary, you will want to know if you can take it anywhere you go — like on a flight overseas. But can you take an inhaler on a plane?  – this article will guide you on how to properly store them on a flight:

Can You Take An Inhaler On A Plane?

Yes, according to the TSA you are allowed to bring an inhaler on a plane in your carry-on luggage.

Are Inhalers Allowed On A Plane? 

inhaler on a plane TSA response

There are no restrictions on taking an inhaler through the security checkpoint at the airport, meaning asthma inhalers are allowed in the aircraft’s cabin with you in your carry-on luggage. The TSA allows passengers to take inhalers on a plane; since there is a possibility that they may need to use the inhaler during their trip.

Using them during a flight is also allowed. If you need to use any asthma inhalers or equipment in the air, whether you are having an asthma attack or not, then there will be no restrictions on its use. Passengers, however, should ensure that the protective cover is in place to prevent accidental activation.

In fact, as with all essential medication, you should ensure you have it with you, even without the spare inhaler canisters, in case of an asthma attack during the flight.

Although you can store an inhaler (and spare inhaler canisters) in your checked luggage, keeping them there would be highly impractical. It would be best for your health to them have ready in your carry-on bag in case you’ll have an asthma attack during the flight.

What about nebulizers? Are they also allowed on a plane?

nebulizers on a plane TSA response

The TSA also allows nebulizers, CPAPs, BiPAPs, and APAPs to be brought in carry-on bags but that they must be removed from the carrying case and undergo X-ray screening. You may provide a clear plastic bag to place the device for the screening, where a TSA officer may need to remove the device from the bag to test it for traces of explosives.

Liquids associated with nebulizers are exempt from the 3-1-1 liquids rule in reasonable quantities. One should also carry devices containing lithium metal or lithium-ion batteries in carry-on baggage. Consumer electronic devices containing batteries are often allowed in carry-on and checked baggage.

Suppose officers are unable to use X-rays to clear these items. In that case, if feasible, they may ask to open the container and transfer the content to a separate empty container or empty out a small quantity.

Do inhalers need to go in the liquids bag?

Do inhalers need to go in the liquids bag?

Inhalers are exempt from the TSA liquids rules since they are prescription medications. Although they contain small amounts of liquid, liquid medications can be larger than 3.4 oz (100 ml) and do not need to go in a resealable liquid bag with other liquids without any problems during the security process.

However, the inhaler must be removed from the carry-on bag or pocket and placed in a separate security tray for screening. You must also state that you have an inhaler and other medications. A security agent at the checkpoint may conduct additional screening tests on the inhaler before you are allowed to enter the area and board your flight.

Do you need a doctor’s prescription?

inhaler plane TSA response

You don’t need to take a note from your doctor or a prescription to show that you are entitled to carry an inhaler when traveling. However, the TSA still recommends that passengers bring any documentation, such as an asthma attack card or a prescription label – just in case.

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Takeaway

As with all prescribed medication, you can take inhalers (or nebulizers) can go with you onBoard a flight in your carry-on bags while traveling in case of a sudden attack mid-flight. Simply store them properly in your carrying bag and keep their protective seal on when not in use. 

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