View Full Version : Air travel:H2 carry loaner/backup pump thru security
gardencream
07-13-2007, 08:26 PM
Recently we flew out of New York airport and had problem
carrying a backup(second) pump thru security. Even with the
supervisor involved, they refused to hand inspect the backup
pump and demanded us to put it thru the X-ray belt or in
checked bag ( n,o we don't have a doctor note for the loaner pump). We fought for half an hour with them!! How can we
prevent this from happening again, especially we are flying to
Asia in 1 week's time?
They also refused to hand inspect the insulin and made us put them all thru X-ray belt.
Amy C.
07-13-2007, 09:10 PM
I have not heard about trying to bring a pump through that isn't attached. I know that sending one through the x-ray machine is not good. I would have put it my bag to be checked.
It's OK for the insulin to through an x-ray machine.
wendyc
07-13-2007, 09:56 PM
A pump CANNOT go through x-ray. I would definitely have a note from both the pump company and the endo explaining why it can't go through. I would also carry a copy of the manual that states this too.
If you weren't traveling internationally, I'd say if all else fails, wear the loaner yourself. Slap a set on and be prepared. I mean really would they catch on? Just have a battery in it so that it can turn on when they check it. But, that could be pushing the envelope a bit.
As for the insulin, I wouldn't be as concerned about that going through x-ray. We've done it in the past w/o any problems.
Keep us posted about how it went.
gardencream
07-13-2007, 11:30 PM
unfortunately, we'll not be able to get a letter from either the doctor or the pump company to specify that the backup pump cannot go thru X-ray for our next trip as we are away from home at this time. Anyone else had the same experience???
s0ccerfreak
07-14-2007, 01:08 AM
I second the idea of putting the loaner pump on yourself. Could you email your endo and have him send you a letter that way?
wendyc
07-14-2007, 09:55 AM
Call the pump company and ask if there is a rep anywhere near where you are. Explain what is happening, if they have a rep anywhere in the vicinity, they will get it to you.
Can your doc fax a letter to you? Is there a Kinkos or Staples anywhere nearby?
gardencream
07-14-2007, 10:58 PM
Thank you all for all the suggestions, much appreciated! I'd email the pump company and the doctor for a letter. Will see.
I did not realize that X-Ray machines were bad for pumps? I have sent mine through unattached. Thanks for any info. Ali.