Why do I get short of breath when flying?

The air on a plane contains less oxygen than the air we normally breathe in. This leads to lower levels of oxygen in the blood. If you do not have a lung condition, the drop in oxygen is not enough that you would feel the difference.



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The only oxygen equipment allowed on an airplane is the portable oxygen concentrator (POC). If you need oxygen in flight, you must take a portable oxygen concentrator with you, and , you must let your airline know ahead of time. They may require a doctor's letter to verify the need for the POC on the plane.

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Traveling by airplane exposes people to decreased air pressure and lower than normal oxygen levels. For most people, these changes are not noticeable. However, for patients with certain underlying lung conditions, small atmospheric changes can have significant and potentially severe effects.

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For best protection, you are encouraged to use supplemental oxygen above 10,000 feet MSL. At night, because vision is particularly sensitive to diminished oxygen, a prudent rule is to use supplemental oxygen when flying above 6,000 feet MSL. So, when you fly at high altitudes, supplemental oxygen is the only solution.

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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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Airlines are not required to provide oxygen service and many do not. Passengers may carry portable oxygen concentrators (POCs).

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This article discusses some strategies for managing panic attacks on a plane, including:
  1. Taking medication for panic attacks.
  2. Using visualization.
  3. Practicing relaxation techniques.
  4. Finding healthy distractions.
  5. Taking classes to combat fear of flying.
  6. Seeking support from other fliers.
  7. Thinking realistically.


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Sitting down in a tight seat for 13+ hours can sometimes lead to circulation issues, including swelling in the feet. According to The Healthy, the chance of your body forming blood clots increases when blood isn't moving correctly, such as when onboard a long-haul flight.

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While there are many causes of shortness of breath, the most common causes are lung disease, heart disease, or deconditioning (lack of exercise, especially in people who are overweight or obese).

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