Fri, Nov 25, 2005
Systems Filter Air, Instead Of Relying On Compressed
Oxygen
Midwest Airlines
recently received approval from the FAA to allow its passengers to
use portable oxygen concentrators (POC). The FAA approval applies
to two specific POC models only: the AirSep Lifestyle (model
AS081-1) and the Inogen One (model IO-100, below).
Designed for use by those who require medical oxygen, the two
devices do not use bottles of compressed oxygen -- which the
government classifies as a hazardous material -- but instead filter
nitrogen from the air, delivering oxygen in a concentrated form to
the user.
In seeking approval to allow use of the POCs, Midwest ensured
all FAA requirements were met -- the devices were not found to
interfere with the aircraft's electrical, navigational or
communications equipment. Midwest Airlines is one of only a few
domestic carriers that has received FAA approval to allow onboard
use of POC devices.
In July, the FAA issued
a regulation allowing use of the devices onboard commercial
aircraft to improve accessibility for people who must travel with
medical oxygen. However, before carriers may allow the devices
onboard, they must first ensure the models do not interfere with an
aircraft's electrical, navigational or communication equipment.
"We are pleased that we can now welcome individuals who use POCs
aboard our aircraft," said Christopher D. White, vice president of
Safety and Regulatory Compliance for Midwest Airlines. "It is
estimated that more than a million Americans require medical oxygen
and now many of these individuals will find it easier and more cost
effective for them to take advantage of the convenience of air
travel."
The approved devices may be used on any Midwest Airlines or
Midwest Connect flight.
More News
Inversion to Launch Reentry Vehicle Demonstrator Aboard SpaceX Falcon 9 This fall, the aerospace startup Inversion is set to launch its Ray reentry demonstrator capsule aboard Spac>[...]
"We are excited to accelerate the adoption of electric aviation technology and further our journey towards a sustainable future. The agreement with magniX underscores our commitmen>[...]
"The journey to this achievement started nearly a decade ago when a freshly commissioned Gentry, driven by a fascination with new technologies and a desire to contribute significan>[...]
Aero Linx: OX5 Aviation Pioneers Each year a national reunion of OX5 Aviation Pioneers is hosted by one of the Wings in the organization. The reunions attract much attention as man>[...]
"Our driven and innovative team of military and civilian Airmen delivers combat power daily, ensuring our nation is ready today and tomorrow." Source: General Duke Richardson, AFMC>[...]