People with diabetes can still take insulin with them onto aircraft despite new security restrictions. Those traveling should bring a letter from their doctor explaining their need to carry syringes/injection devices and insulin. The doctor’s letter explaining your need for insulin and injection devices should be presented to the airline staff, and if you do encounter any problems you should request to speak to a manager or senior member of staff. Some GPs will make a charge for writing a letter. If you travel frequently therefore, it would be a good idea to ask your doctor to phrase the letter in such a way that it can be used more than once.
A number of airlines bring in restrictions in emergency situations about what items can be brought onto their aircraft in hand luggage. This leads to concern about traveling with insulin and a number of people have been advised that they must put spare insulin in baggage in the aircraft's hold. Our advice based on information from insulin manufacturers has always been to avoid storing insulin in baggage which goes into the hold, as travelling at altitude may cause the baggage to freeze, which would damage the insulin. We have spoken to an insulin manufacturer and they have advised, in emergency situations, to place insulin that has to go in the hold, in an airtight container (such as a flask) in the middle of your suitcase. Alternatively, if an airtight container isn't available, wrap in bubble wrap, then in a towel and again place in the middle of your suitcase.
On arrival you must examine the insulin for crystals and discard the insulin if any are found. Even if it looks ok, you should test your blood glucose levels more frequently and if they appear abnormal, discard the insulin as it may be damaged and ineffective.
On some airlines, once on board the plane, cabin crew may request that medication be handed over for storage during the flight. For this reason it may be advisable to put insulin and syringes/needles in a separate carrier bag.
In addition to a doctor’s letter, a Diabetes UK Insulin user’s identity card may also help the cardholder to verify his/her need to carry syringes and medication. Please note however, that this card does not hold any statutory status at present, and police or customs are not required by law to recognise the card and the information printed on it. Nonetheless, they are aware of its existence and producing the card may ease any problems you might otherwise encounter.
Those traveling may wish to contact their airline in advance for the most up-to-date information on this issue.