A CPAP machine is a continuous positive airway pressure machine, which uses mild air pressure to help keep the user's airways open. CPAP machines often have a device that covers the nose or mouth, a strap to keep the device in place, a tube to connect the device to the motor and a motor that blows the air into the tube. CPAP machines are small, lightweight and quiet. CPAP machines are allowed past security checkpoints after they are inspected by TSA officers.
You must take the CPAP out of your carrying case and place it in the device bin. The face mask and tube can remain in your carrying case. Your CPAP will be subject to x-ray inspection, visual and physical inspection and explosive trace detection (ETD) sampling.
In order to maintain hygiene and cleanliness you may place your CPAP into a clear plastic bag before putting it in the device bin. You will need to bring your own plastic bag. The CPAP will need to be removed from the plastic bag for the ETD sampling. Upon request, transportation security officers will change their gloves, clean the table where the ETD is conducted and change the sampling media prior to inspecting your machine.
