Can you fly on Southwest with an oxygen concentrator

Yes. You can fly on Southwest Airlines with a portable oxygen concentrator (POC).

Here are some details about using oxygen while flying with Southwest:

• Southwest does not allow liquid or compressed gas on their air crafts.
• Your POC must run on battery power during your flight.
• You must bring enough battery power to cover at least 150% of your total flight time.
• Southwest recommends carrying at least one extra battery.
• You must package your extra batteries in your carry-on.
• Stored batteries must not come into contact with metal objects.
• Southwest strongly urges you to preboard to secure a seat that meets the FAA’s safety requirements. Failure to preboard could cause you to get denied on the plan or rebooked for another flight.
• Your POC must fit under a seat. This space measures 16.25” (L) x 13.5” (W) x 8” (H).

Southwest requires advance notice that you’ll be traveling with a POC. To add a POC while booking your flight, they provide a “Special Assistance” link on the Passenger screen on their website. You can add your POC to a flight you already booked, also by using the Special Assistance link.

Southwest-Approved POCs

If you’re bringing your POC but not planning on using it during your flight, FAA approval is not required. The airline also recommends bringing documentation stating that you don’t require using your oxygen during the flight.

POCs used during Southwest flights must have an FAA-approved label. If you don’t own a Southwest-approved POC, consider using a rental.

As of April 2023, Southwest has approved the following POCs. However, always check with the airline for updates before traveling.


For more information, visit our blog page on Tips for Flying with a Portable Oxygen Concentrator on Southwest Airlines.