Lois Larson
If you use a Freestyle Libre sensor, you may be wondering how to approach airport security. It is recommended that you notify security personnel that you have diabetes and are carrying your supplies on board. You may also need to explain any medical devices attached to you. In general, insulin pumps and CGMs, including Freestyle Libre sensors, should not be screened by X-ray or full-body scanners as this may cause them to malfunction. Instead, you can request an alternative screening method, such as a pat-down check, and ask for your medical supplies to be hand-checked. Freestyle Libre sensors can be exposed to airport metal detectors, and you can keep your sensor on while passing through them.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Exposure to metal detectors | Yes, the Freestyle Libre sensor can be exposed to metal detectors. |
| Exposure to full-body scanners | No, the Freestyle Libre sensor should not be exposed to full-body scanners. |
| Exposure to X-ray | No, the Freestyle Libre sensor should not be exposed to X-ray. |
| Exposure to electromagnetic interference (EMI) | Yes, the Freestyle Libre sensor can be exposed to EMI. |
| Exposure to electrostatic (ESD) | Yes, the Freestyle Libre sensor can be exposed to ESD. |
| Alternative screening methods | Pat-down check, hand-check for medical supplies |
| Libre reader during take-off and landing | Should be powered off |
| Wireless functionality | May interfere with aircraft communication and navigation systems |
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What You'll Learn
Declare diabetes and any medical devices to security personnel
When travelling with diabetes, it is important to declare any medical devices to security personnel. This includes insulin pumps, glucose monitors, and other devices attached to your body. Although not required, you can provide security officers with a TSA notification card before screening to discreetly communicate your medical condition.
It is recommended to inform security personnel about your diabetes and any associated devices before the screening process begins. This allows them to accommodate alternative screening methods if necessary. For example, you may request a pat-down check instead of a full-body scanner or X-ray, as the latter can interfere with the functioning of insulin pumps and CGMs (continuous glucose monitors), including FreeStyle Libre sensors.
The CAA and the Airport Operators Association (AOA) have developed a Medical Device Awareness Card that provides information for both security officers and passengers with diabetes. This card can be downloaded and printed from the CAA website. Having this card can help streamline communication about your medical condition and devices during security screening.
In addition to declaring your diabetes and medical devices, it is advisable to carry prescription labels for your medication and devices. While not required by the TSA, doing so can expedite the security process. Keep your medication and devices in a separate, clear, and sealable bag within your carry-on luggage. This allows for easier access and screening of your medical supplies.
When travelling with diabetes, it is also important to carry quick-acting sources of glucose to treat low blood sugar, as well as easy-to-carry snacks. Ensure that you have the necessary equipment to manage your diabetes, such as insulin pens and finger-prick test kits, in case you need to turn off your insulin pump or CGM during the flight.
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Request an alternative screening method to avoid X-ray exposure
If you use insulin pumps and CGMs (Continuous Glucose Monitors) such as the FreeStyle Libre sensor, it is recommended to avoid X-ray screening or full-body scanners at airport security. X-ray waves can cause these devices to malfunction, so it is advisable to request an alternative screening method, such as a pat-down check. You should also inform security personnel that you are carrying diabetes supplies and any medical devices attached to you.
The CAA (Civil Aviation Authority) and the Airport Operators Association (AOA) have introduced a Medical Device Awareness Card, which provides information for both security officers and passengers with insulin pumps or CGMs. This card can be downloaded and printed before travelling. It is recommended to check the manufacturer's instructions for specific equipment for any travel-related details and precautions.
When travelling with insulin, sensors, and other medications, it is best to keep them in your hand luggage. Insulin not in use should be stored in a Frio bag or similar to keep it cool. Most airlines provide an additional allowance for carrying medical supplies.
It is important to note that FreeStyle Libre sensors can operate normally during a flight. However, if you use a Libre reader, it should be powered off during take-off and landing as its wireless functionality can interfere with aircraft communication systems. In such cases, you should ensure you have alternative equipment, such as an insulin pen, to manage your diabetes.
While the risk of harm from X-ray exposure is considered low, it is still a concern for some individuals, especially those who may be more vulnerable to radiation's effects. Alternative screening methods can help ensure the proper functioning of medical devices and provide peace of mind for travellers with specific health considerations.
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Carry medical supplies and spares in hand luggage
If you are travelling with medical supplies and equipment, there are some important things to keep in mind. Firstly, always carry your medication and spares in your hand luggage. This ensures that you have access to your medication at all times and can manage your health effectively during the flight.
When passing through airport security, it is important to inform security personnel that you are carrying medical supplies and devices. You may need to declare any medical devices attached to your body, such as insulin pumps or CGMs (Continuous Glucose Monitors), including Freestyle Libre sensors. These devices should not be screened by X-ray or full-body scanners as the X-ray waves can cause them to malfunction. Instead, request an alternative screening method, such as a pat-down check, and ask for your medical supplies and spares to be hand-checked.
It is recommended to carry proof of your prescription, such as a letter from your doctor or a copy of your prescription, as airport staff may need to screen liquids or open containers at the security point. Additionally, check the manufacturer's instructions for your specific medical equipment for any travel-related precautions or recommendations.
To ensure you have uninterrupted access to your medication during your trip, it is advisable to distribute your medicines across multiple bags. This way, even if one bag goes missing, you still have access to your medication. Carrying a letter from your healthcare provider detailing your medication needs can also be helpful.
Lastly, if you are travelling with electrical medical equipment, check the voltage supply of your destination country and carry a supply of spare batteries.
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Power off Libre readers during take-off and landing
If you use a Libre reader, it is recommended that you power it off during take-off and landing. This is because the wireless functionality of some insulin pumps and CGMs can interfere with aircraft communication and navigation systems. In addition, X-ray waves can cause pumps and CGMs to malfunction. Therefore, it is advisable to request an alternative screening method, such as a pat-down check, and to have your medical supplies hand-checked.
It is important to note that Freestyle Libre sensors are able to operate as normal while flying. However, if your CGM relies on a wireless signal, you may need to remove it while in the air. To manage your diabetes in such circumstances, ensure you have the necessary equipment, such as an insulin pen, and be prepared to test your glucose levels through finger-prick tests.
When travelling with diabetes, it is recommended to carry your insulin, sensors, and other medications in your hand luggage. Insulin that is not in use should be kept cool, so consider using a Frio bag or a similar option. Additionally, inform security personnel about your diabetes and any medical devices you are carrying.
To ensure the proper functioning of your Libre reader, always use the Abbott-provided power adapter and yellow USB cable that came with the device. Take care when plugging and unplugging the USB cable, and avoid forcing or bending it into the Reader's USB port. Choose a charging location where you can easily access the power adapter and quickly disconnect if needed to prevent the potential risk of electrical shock. The maximum surface temperature of the Reader and power adapter can reach up to 120°F (about 49°C) when charging, so refrain from holding them for extended periods under these conditions. It is important to note that the USB cable and power adapter should not be exposed to water or other liquids to prevent malfunction and potential fire or burn risks.
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Download a Medical Device Awareness Card
If you use a Freestyle Libre sensor, you may be concerned about how to manage it when going through airport security. The general advice is that insulin pumps and CGMs (continuous glucose monitors), including Freestyle Libre sensors, should not be screened by X-ray or full-body scanners as this may cause them to malfunction.
Instead, you can ask for an alternative screening method, such as a pat-down check, and request that any medical supplies you are carrying are hand-checked. It is recommended that you carry insulin, sensors, and other medications in your hand luggage. You should also inform security personnel that you have diabetes and are carrying your supplies onboard.
To help communicate this to airport security, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and the Airport Operators Association (AOA) have created a Medical Device Awareness Card, which provides information for both the security officer and the passenger. This card can be downloaded and printed from the CAA website: https://www.caa.co.uk/media/4f1pswv0/caa_aoa_medicaldeviceawarenesscard.pdf.
Having this card can help make going through airport security with your Freestyle Libre sensor a smoother process. It is important to note that while Freestyle Libre sensors can operate as normal while flying, if you use a Libre reader, it should be powered off during take-off and landing as its wireless functionality may interfere with aircraft communication and navigation systems.
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Frequently asked questions
Freestyle Libre sensors can be exposed to airport metal detectors. However, they should not be exposed to some airport full-body scanners (i.e. x-ray and millimeter radio-wave).
You should advise the security personnel that you have diabetes and are carrying your supplies on board. You can request another type of screening, such as a pat-down check, and ask for your medical supplies to be hand-checked.
The Freestyle Libre reader should be powered off during take-off and landing as its wireless functionality can interfere with aircraft communication and navigation systems.
Ensure you have the right equipment to manage your diabetes, such as an insulin pen, and be able to test your glucose through a finger-prick test.
No, insulin should be packed in your hand luggage. If packed in checked luggage, there is a risk of it getting frozen in the aircraft hold, rendering it useless.
