It’s generally safe for people with mesothelioma to fly as long as their doctor approves and they take proper precautions.
Many patients travel by air to visit loved ones, attend special events, or receive mesothelioma treatment at specialized cancer centers. However, flying can be harder if your lungs are affected or your immune system is weakened by treatment. Airplane cabins are pressurized to a level similar to being 8,000 feet above sea level, which means there’s less oxygen in the air. This can make breathing more difficult for people with mesothelioma.
Before you book your trip, ask your mesothelioma doctor if it’s safe to fly. You may need to plan around your treatment schedule or bring oxygen or medications with you. Once you get medical clearance, you can take simple steps to travel safely. Wearing an N95 mask, drinking plenty of water, and preparing ahead can help you stay healthy and comfortable.
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5 Tips to Stay Safe While Flying With Mesothelioma
Taking the right steps before you travel will help ensure you have a safe and comfortable trip. Here are five tips to help you prepare.
1. Keep Your Doctor in the Loop
Check with your mesothelioma doctor before making any concrete travel plans. They can look at your medical history and current treatment plan and offer advice for managing your health while you’re away.
If your doctor advises against traveling, you can use FaceTime, Zoom, or another video call option to visit with family or friends from a distance.
2. Pack a Copy of Your Medical Records
Having a copy of your medical records with you can be a lifesaver during an emergency. Bring a printed or digital copy of important health details, like recent imaging scans, treatment notes, and your current medication list.
It may also help to bring:
- An emergency contact list with phone numbers & email addresses
- A travel itinerary that lists flight details & directions
- Your health insurance card or Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
Don’t hesitate to ask a family member or friend for help gathering these documents. This will make it easier for another doctor or health care provider to help you if you need medical assistance during your trip.
3. Consider Any Medications or Medical Equipment
When you’re packing, include any medications you take regularly and think about whether you’ll need any special medical equipment.
Here’s a quick checklist:
- Adjust any medication reminders if you’re changing time zones.
- If you need oxygen, you’ll have to use an approved portable oxygen concentrator (POC). Airlines no longer allow personal compressed or liquid oxygen tanks.
- Pack any pain management medications in their original bottles, and check with your airline about any restrictions on carrying liquids.
You can contact TSA Cares at least 72 hours before your flight to request help through airport security if you have medical equipment, medications, or mobility needs.
“They wouldn’t let me on the plane with my oxygen. I had to have one that would make its oxygen.”
4. Bring a Travel Companion
A trusted travel companion can offer peace of mind, practical assistance, and support throughout your trip.
Whether it’s a spouse or close family member, a travel buddy can:
- Carry luggage, wheelchairs, and other large items
- Help you navigate the airport and book transportation
- Offer comfort and reassurance to reduce your stress levels
- Remind you to take your medication and monitor your health needs
If you’re traveling alone, consider wearing a medical bracelet that links to your online health history and insurance details for emergencies.
“He has a wheelchair that folds up so easily I can pick it up under my arm with just one hand. It makes our life easier.”
5. Eat Healthy Foods & Stay Hydrated
The dry air on planes or in higher elevations can lead to dehydration, so it’s important to drink plenty of water.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, up to 50% of the air in an airplane cabin comes from outside, where moisture levels are extremely low at high altitudes.
You can pack an empty water bottle in your carry-on to fill up after security. Lotion and eye drops can be used while you’re flying to keep you feeling moisturized and comfortable.
Traveling can also drain your energy, so fuel up with healthy snacks and plan ahead for meals that will give your body the nutrients it needs to fight mesothelioma.
If you’re helping a loved one with mesothelioma, plan a trip, or manage daily care, having clear, reliable information makes all the difference. Our Free Mesothelioma Guide offers expert advice from top doctors and up-to-date details on treatment options and symptom management.
Staying Safe From COVID-19 and RSV While Flying
While mask rules have relaxed, COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses like the flu and RSV can still be risky for people whose immune systems are weakened by cancer or chemotherapy.
The Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) 2025 guidelines recommend that immunocompromised patients:
- Stay up to date on COVID-19, flu, and RSV vaccines before traveling (timed around treatment).
- Wear a high-quality mask (N95 or KN95) in crowded indoor areas such as airports or planes.
- Wash their hands or use sanitizer often, especially before eating.
- Keep some distance from others when possible.
Airplanes and airports bring you into close contact with many people, which can make it easier to catch viruses when your immune system is weakened from treatment. Talk with your care team about the best time to travel and confirm that your vaccines are up to date.
Get Help Managing Life With Mesothelioma
Living with mesothelioma presents unique challenges, and every patient’s journey is different. Before making plans, speak with your mesothelioma doctor to ensure you’re fit enough to fly or travel long distances.
If you need help managing life with mesothelioma, reach out to our team to:
- Connect with experienced mesothelioma doctors
- Get support with daily activities and lifestyle changes
- Learn how to manage your diet and nutrition
- Join our virtual support group or find a peer mentor who’s been in your shoes
Call us now at (866) 608-8933 or request our Free Mesothelioma Guide to get started.
