If a person with CF has a lung function of below 50%, they should check with their doctor whether they are fit to fly. Some people with CF will be fine to fly, others will need oxygen on the flight and some will not be able to fly at all. Those who may not need oxygen on the ground may need it for air travel due to the pressurised cabin environment and the subsequent effect on the lungs. For those who do need oxygen, they will need to contact the airline. Some may supply the oxygen or allow a compressor to be carried aboard as part of hand luggage - always contact your airline before travel.

The Cystic Fibrosis Trust believes that current costs being levied by some airlines are discriminatory and some airlines are making money from people's disability. Whilst some airlines carry extra oxygen and provide it at no charge, others are charging anything from £50 - £500. This huge disparity in pricing is unfair and is forcing some people to abandon holiday plans as costs escalate. This charge is preventing young people from living their normal lives to the full.

The CF Trust is supporting a campaign by the British Lung Foundation, Pulmonary Hypertension Association UK and Muscular Dystrophy Campaign to end additional changes for people travelling with oxygen and to ensure that all airlines offer the same level of service to people with a lung condition.

Find out more from the British Lung Foundation website

Click here to email your MP about this issue

Click here to read a survey of 22 airlines by Pulmonary Hypertension Association UK conducted Spring 2008

Further information on oxygen, flights and other aspects of travel can be downloaded from our publications library.