Airline oxygen policy

Flying Southwest Airlines with a portable oxygen concentrator

What Southwest asks of travelers who use a POC, summarized from its published policy. Reviewed October 2026.

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Southwest oxygen rules at a glance

Based on Southwest Airlines’ published policy, reviewed October 2026.

NoticeAdd your portable oxygen concentrator to your reservation (Manage reservation), then visit a Customer Service Agent at the airport so they can verify it and mark your boarding pass.

PaperworkSouthwest’s POC page focuses on airport verification. Carrying a signed note from your doctor (flow rate and settings) is still a smart backup.

BatteriesBring enough battery power for 150% of your maximum flight duration. Southwest recommends packing one extra battery beyond that.

SeatingYou’ll need a seat closer to the window than anyone else in your row, and you can’t sit in an exit row. If you can’t choose a window seat yourself, call at least 24 hours before departure.

StowingThe concentrator must be stowed under the seat in front of you for taxi, takeoff and landing.

FeesUnder DOT rules, assistive devices like POCs don’t count toward your carry-on limit.

Southwest doesn’t allow you to bring your own oxygen tanks — an FAA-approved portable concentrator is the way to fly. Policies can change, so always confirm with Southwest Airlines before you fly. See Southwest’s policy →