Flying with an Inogen concentrator and batteries
Axis Batteries technical team — Li-ion battery rebuilding since 2009 · Updated:
You can usually fly with an Inogen One concentrator, but the airline must accept the device and your batteries must follow lithium-ion rules: batteries up to 100 Wh are generally allowed in the cabin, spares must travel in carry-on luggage with protected terminals, and many airlines expect enough battery capacity for about 150% of the flight time. Always confirm with your airline before booking.
Step one: ask your airline
Rules for portable oxygen concentrators and lithium batteries are set by aviation authorities, but each airline applies them in its own way. Before you book, contact the airline and ask:
- Whether your concentrator model is accepted on board. Inogen One models carry FAA-compliance labeling, but acceptance is still the airline's decision.
- How much advance notice they need. Many airlines require you to notify them before the flight.
- Whether they need a physician's statement or a specific form.
- How many batteries you may bring and how much runtime they expect.
Confirm again shortly before flying, because policies can change.
Lithium-ion battery limits in watt-hours
Airlines follow IATA and, in the US, FAA rules for lithium-ion batteries. The key value is the battery's energy in watt-hours (Wh), usually printed on the label.
| Battery energy | General rule |
|---|---|
| Up to 100 Wh | Generally allowed in the cabin |
| 100–160 Wh | Requires airline approval, limited in number |
| Over 160 Wh | Not allowed |
What about the large double batteries? Inogen states that its double batteries BA-316 and BA-516 consist of two separate packs of 92.2 Wh each, so each pack is under 100 Wh. Still, check with your airline how they treat these batteries.
Spare batteries: carry-on only
- Spare batteries must always travel in your carry-on luggage, never in checked baggage.
- Protect the terminals against short circuit, for example with the original cover, a separate pouch or tape over the contacts.
- Do not pack loose batteries together with keys, coins or other metal objects.
The 150% rule
Many airlines, and FAA guidance in the US, expect you to carry enough battery capacity for about 150% of the expected flight time. For a 4-hour flight, that means batteries for about 6 hours of operation at the setting you will use. Some airlines count the total travel time, including waiting at the gate and connections, so ask how they calculate it.
Keep in mind that runtime depends on your setting and on the condition of your batteries. Manufacturer runtimes are maximum values at setting 1. An older battery will deliver less. Our guide how long an Inogen battery lasts lists the figures for G3, G4 and G5 batteries. Charge all batteries fully before you leave.
If your batteries are a few years old and no longer reach their usual runtime, test them at home at your normal setting well before the trip. That way you know how many hours each one really gives you and can work out whether you have enough for the 150% requirement.
Can I fly with a rebuilt Inogen battery?
A rebuild at Axis Batteries keeps the original cell configuration, the original housing, BMS and connectors. The battery therefore stays in the same class as stated on its label. However, a rebuilt battery is not an original Inogen product, and we cannot promise that any particular airline will accept it. If you plan to fly with a rebuilt battery:
- Contact us before the flight if you are unsure about your battery.
- Check with your airline in advance.
- Plan enough time: a rebuild takes 2–5 business days from when we receive the battery, plus shipping both ways.
To understand the differences between rebuilt, original and generic batteries, read rebuilt vs new Inogen battery.
Practical packing checklist
- Airline confirmation and any required forms or physician's statement.
- Concentrator, fully charged.
- Enough charged batteries for about 150% of the flight time, or what your airline requires.
- Spare batteries in carry-on, terminals protected.
- Original charger and power supply for the destination.
This is technical information about batteries, not medical advice. If you depend on continuous oxygen, keep a backup source available and ask your doctor or oxygen supplier about your therapy and fitness to fly.
FAQ
- Can I take spare Inogen batteries on a plane?
- Generally yes, but only in carry-on luggage with the terminals protected against short circuit. Batteries up to 100 Wh are generally allowed in the cabin. Confirm the details with your airline.
- Is the Inogen double battery over 100 Wh?
- Inogen states that its double batteries BA-316 and BA-516 consist of two separate packs of 92.2 Wh each, so each pack is under 100 Wh. Check with your airline how they treat them.
- How many batteries do I need for a flight?
- Many airlines expect battery capacity for about 150% of the expected flight time. Ask your airline how they calculate it, as some include waiting and connection time.
- Will airlines accept a rebuilt Inogen battery?
- A rebuild keeps the original cell configuration, so the battery stays in the class stated on its label. We cannot promise acceptance by any airline, so check with your airline before you fly.
This article contains technical information about batteries, not medical advice. For questions about your oxygen therapy, contact your doctor or oxygen supplier. Axis Batteries is an independent service, not affiliated with Inogen, Inc. Inogen and Inogen One are trademarks of Inogen, Inc.