Is it safe to fly with a partially collapsed lung?

Pneumothorax and scheduled flights This significant difference from the air pressure at ground level can cause expansion of the air trapped in the patient's pleural space and a worsening of existing pneumothorax. Therefore, if you have an acute pneumothorax, taking a scheduled flight is normally not advisable.



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Having a lung condition should not stop you from travelling by air. Whether you are going on holiday, a business trip or a visit to family and friends, it should be possible to make the necessary arrangements - as long as you plan ahead.

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Low air pressure during air travel also decreases the amount of oxygen in the air. This effect is modest and generally not noticeable for healthy travelers. For patients with significant lung disease, a small decrease in available oxygen can cause significant symptoms, especially with exercise.

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Changes in atmospheric pressure are related to a higher incidence of spontaneous primary pneumothorax. Atmospheric pressure changes from day to day are usually small. However, during flying or diving significant changes in pressure will occur.

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Airline restrictions on flying Airlines might not let you travel with them: if they are concerned that you have a medical condition that might get worse during a flight. if you have an illness that could infect other passengers.

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Resting Pulse Oximetry
Values >95% on room air suggest that inflight hypoxemia is unlikely and that further evaluation is likely not necessary. Patients with saturations <92% on room air at rest should receive supplemental oxygen inflight, because they are at high risk of hypoxemia at altitude.

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