Under tightened security at the country’s airports, passengers are forbidden to carry sharp objects onto a plane. After some initial confusion about whether people with diabetes could carry their syringes with them, the Federal Aviation Administration initially announced that syringes would be allowed with "documented proof of medical need."

The ADA got further clarification of the rules from the FAA. Because of concern about forgery of letters and prescriptions, the FAA rules covering insulin, syringes, and other diabetes supplies have been tightened, as follows:

• You may carry syringes or other insulin delivery devices only if you have a vial of insulin with the original pre-printed label from the pharmacy and/or pharmaceutical company that clearly identifies the medicine. Since the prescription label is usually on the outside of the box containing the vial of insulin, FAA recommends that you keep this box with the vial.

• You may carry lancets for your glucose meter as long as they are capped and you also have a glucose meter with the manufacturer’s name embossed on it.

• Keep your glucagon in its pre-printed labeled plastic container or box.

If you are planning a flight, check with your airline ahead of time to clarify their policy. The ADA advises that, if you have any difficulties, you should contact the FAA grounds security commissioner at the airport, who should be able to resolve any questions.

Even though it won’t be sufficient for boarding with your supplies, you should carry a letter from your doctor describing your condition and medication needs when you’re traveling. And it’s a good idea for all people with diabetes to have a diabetes identification bracelet or tag, whether traveling or not.

Related information Glucose control - Special times - In travel

Sources:

• Federal Aviation Administration Aviation Update. Oct. 10, 2001.
• ADA. Flying with diabetes equipment and supplies. News release. Sept. 21, 2001.
• ADA. UPDATE – Traveling with diabetes supplies and equipment, Oct. 11, 2001.