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APPROVAL OF LTV SERIES VENTILATOR FOR AIR TRAVEL
To establish the use of the LTV for air travel, several measures had to occur:
- FDA clearance for transport use.
- Ensure the ventilator met certain standards for use on an aircraft.
For the first set of priorities, the ventilator had to be cleared by the FDA for use in transport settings. This was a condition of the 510K, and LTV received 510K clearances in October 1998 stating, "The ventilator is suitable for use in institutional and transport settings."
For the second set of priorities, the ventilator went through a series of tests:
An electromagnetic emission test was performed for EMI/RFI emissions and susceptibility (radio frequency radiated interference). This was to test the compatibility of the LTV within its anticipated operating environment to determine the compliance of the unit with the requirements of the Radio Technical Commission for Aeronautics (RTCA). The LTV met these requirements when operating on internal battery or external DC power. The LTM Graphics Monitor should not be used during air travel.
In addition, the ventilator went through HALT (Highly Accelerated Life Tests). The purpose of the tests was to detect any latent defects in the ventilator while operating through extreme conditions. These conditions were severe temperatures ranging from -20 degrees C to +60 degrees C, while simultaneously subjecting the ventilator to a six-axis vibration test. The vibration test consisted of rotating each X, Y, and Z axis during vibrations from 5 grms. to 20 GMs at frequencies of 2 Hz to 2,000 Hz. The LTV passed.
AIRLINE TRAVEL WITH A VENTILATOR
Some airlines do not permit the use of a ventilator while in-flight. These include, but may not be limited to:
- Continental Airlines
- Delta Airlines
Most of the other airlines permit the use of ventilators with external batteries, but they place certain restrictions on them. For example, most airlines require a sealed battery (e.g., gel cell) that is in good condition; and the battery must be able to fit up under the seat.
Some airlines (e.g., American Airlines) have a list of ventilators approved for use in their aircraft. If you have a ventilator that is not on their list, you must contact them at least seven (7) days in advance of your reservation to obtain approval. (Note: Approval is not guaranteed.)
You will need to have certain information available when you talk with them: the ventilator manufacturer, model, dimensions and weight.
Pulmonetic Systems is not currently on any airline's approval list, but they will be working toward that objective in the near future.
When making reservations, ask to speak with a medical specialist, and provide details and special requests.
Get the names and phone number for the airline's supervisors who will be on duty at your departure and arrival airports. Make certain to carry this information with you when you travel.
If you do encounter problems, please ask to speak with the airline's "Complaints Resolution Officer".
You will need to arrive at least two hours early to help ensure that your special needs will be taken care of.
Ask to be seated as close to the front (or near the bulkhead) as possible.
Check on courtesy First Class seats - these are often free of charge.
If you have a wheelchair cushion, you may want to take it along on the plane to make your seat more comfortable to you.
Don't forget to take your portable suction machine on board with you if you use one - it should not be counted as "carry-on baggage".
If you will need oxygen, a minimum 48-hour advanced notice is required by most airlines. You will not be permitted to bring your own oxygen on board - you must use the airline's oxygen and there will be a fee for it.
If you are flying alone, make sure a flight attendant will be able and willing to help you in the event of an emergency.
There are some helpful printed resources available free of charge. These include:
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