CPAP machine & airport security

[Randi]

Any advice from someone with experience? I am planning our 3rd trip with the CPAP, but the 1st with the new security levels. It will be 1 of our carryons, but will we have to unpack it & turn it on at checkin? I have always asked for it to be hand checked but will it have to go through X-ray now? Is it safe to go through an X-ray?
I appreciate any help you can offer.

[pugdog]

Yes they might make you turn it on. and yes it is safe to go though the xray machine

[Cheshire Figment]

I would suggest contact the manufacturer and ask for a written response (either an information booklet or something on their letterhead). This will give you the information you need and, if there is any questions, you have something in writing for when you go through security.

[clkelley]

Hubby's machine has been through the x-ray numerous time with no problem. They usually don't say a thing. A couple of times he has been asked to open the case. I think he has been asked to plug it in once.

Have a great trip!

[SueM in MN]

I suggest getting a letter from your doctor that states (in plain English, not medical termonology) what the CPAP is and why you need it. As they get better screeners at the security checkpoints, they might become more suspicious of things like CPAP that are basically machines for pushing air.