Travel and flying with an ICD: what to ask and what to bring

What the sources say

After you get an ICD you receive a card that says you have one. Show it to airport security workers because the ICD may set off alarms.Source:Mayo Clinic

The TSA says to tell the officer you have an internal medical device such as a defibrillator, that you should not be screened by a walk-through metal detector, and to consult your physician before flying.Source:TSA

Hand-held metal detectors often have a magnet that can interfere with an ICD. Mayo Clinic says not to have the area over an ICD scanned for more than 30 seconds, and that you can ask for a manual search instead.Source:Mayo Clinic

Your ICD card can also help in an emergency and with airport security. If you move or get a new phone number, contact the device maker for a new card.Source:NIH (NHLBI)

A long journey (more than 4 hours by plane, car or train) is a time when a blood clot in a leg is more likely. Ask your care team about it.Source:NHS (UK)

Questions to ask your care team

Tick the ones you want to ask. They are saved on this device only.

Is it safe for me to fly, and is there a time I should wait until?
Do I have my device ID card, and is the information on it current?
What should I tell airport security, and what should I ask for?
Do I need to take anything special for a long trip, such as medicines, a letter, or steps to prevent clots?
Do I need my remote monitor, or anything else for my device, while I travel?
Who do I call if something goes wrong while I am away?
Where would I go for help at my destination, and should I check my insurance?
Are there activities on my trip I should avoid, such as strong magnets or heavy tools?

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Call 911 if...

Chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, several shocks in a short time, or pain and swelling in a leg with trouble breathing: call local emergency services right away.Source:American Heart Association NIH (NHLBI)NHS (UK)

Call 911

Quick answers

Can I go through airport security with an ICD?

Yes, with care. The TSA says to tell the officer about your defibrillator and that you should not be screened by a walk-through metal detector. Mayo Clinic says to show your device card and that you can ask for a manual search. Ask your care team before you fly.

Source:TSA Mayo Clinic

Where this comes from

General information, not medical advice. Talk to your care team.