When soaring above the clouds, the last thing a pilot wants to feel is confusion, memory loss, or lack of control of their aircraft resulting from hypoxia. Keeping a pulse oximeter handy is an easy way to monitor blood oxygen levels at higher altitudes. Here’s a handy list of options with a range of features that any pilot should consider adding to their flight bag.
Quick Look: Pulse Oximeter for Pilots
- OxyAct Pulse Oximeter with Respiratory Rate: Best for daily use
- Veridian Pulse Oximeter: Best budget buy
- Zacurate Pro Series 500DL Pulse Oximeter: Best for ease of use
- FaceLake FL400 Pulse Oximeter: Best compact device
- Garmin Instinct 2: Best for multitasking
5 Pulse Oximeter Options
Most of the best pulse oximeter options for pilots clip on a finger for a quick reading, or are integrated into a smartwatch for consistent monitoring on the wrist.
OxyAct Pulse Oximeter with Respiratory Rate
For pilots looking for comprehensive health monitoring during flights, the OxyAct Pulse Oximeter is an ideal choice. This device not only measures blood oxygen saturation but also tracks respiratory rate, offering a complete picture of your physiological status at high altitudes.
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Display: High-resolution OLED with four viewing modes
Alarm: No
Special Features:
- Real-time pulse and respiration rate monitoring
- Perfusion index for blood flow assessment
- Comes with a carrying case and lanyard for portability
Benefits:
- Accurate and immediate insights into oxygen levels
- Easy readability in any lighting conditions
- Non-invasive and user-friendly
Disadvantages:
- No built-in alarm for abnormal readings
Veridian Pulse Oximeter
The Veridian Pulse Oximeter offers simplicity and reliability, making it a great option for those who need straightforward oxygen level monitoring. Its easy one-button operation ensures quick readings during flight.
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Display: LED
Alarm: No
Special Features:
- Automatic shut-off feature to conserve battery
- Comfortable, latex-free design accommodates various finger sizes
- Ships with AAA batteries included
Benefits:
- Affordable pricing for budget-conscious users
- Hassle-free usability with a durable design
Disadvantages:
- Lacks advanced features like connectivity or alarms
Garmin Instinct 2 Smartwatch
For pilots who want more than just a pulse oximeter, the Garmin Instinct 2 Smartwatch combines multiple functionalities into one rugged device. Designed for versatility, it offers health monitoring and flight-related navigation tools.
Display: Corning Gorilla Glass, scratch-resistant touchscreen
Battery Life: Up to 28 days in smartwatch mode
Alarm: Yes
Special Features:
- GPS with multi-GNSS support for precise navigation
- Health monitoring including heart rate, Pulse Ox, and stress tracking
- Durable and water-resistant design
Benefits:
- Extensive battery life suitable for long flights
- Integration of multiple navigation and health features
Disadvantages:
- Higher price point compared to basic pulse oximeters
- Recharging required more frequently during heavy use
Zacurate Pro Series 500DL Pulse Oximeter
The Zacurate Pro Series is designed specifically for sports and aviation users, according to its manufacturer. This pulse oximeter model was recently upgraded and can now display a user’s SpO2 level up to 100 percent. And there’s no worry about fumbling to access the battery chamber—there’s an easy-off snap lid.
Display: LED
Battery Life: 30 hours
Alarm: No
Reading Time: 10 seconds
Special Features:
- Designed for sports and aviation use
Benefits:
- LED display faces the user
- Comes with lanyard, two AAA batteries, silicon cover
- Accommodates a wide range of finger sizes
Disadvantages:
- Device can be slow, according to one user
- Reading may not be accurate with acrylic nails
FaceLake FL400 Pulse Oximeter
The FaceLake FL400 Pulse Oximeter is designed for sports and aviation use and provides quick and precise readings, promises the manufacturer. For less than $20, this oximeter provides a lot of value, along with batteries and a carrying case.
Display: LED
Alarm: No
Reading Time: 24 seconds
Special Features:
- Maintains a constant reading
- Case comes with a belt slip, as well as a plastic loop for carrying
Benefits:
- Gives average heart rate and blood oxygen saturation level
- Easy battery removal
- Made of lightweight materials
Disadvantages:
- May not display accurate readings for small fingers
What Is a Pulse Oximeter?
A pulse oximeter is a simple device that clips to your finger and measures your blood oxygen saturation level.
How Does a Pulse Oximeter Work?
Pulse oximeters rely on a cold light source that shines through your fingertip, according to the American Lung Association. “By analyzing the light from the light source that passes through the finger, the device is able to determine the percentage of oxygen in the red blood cell,” it explains.
Which Finger Is Best for a Pulse Oximeter?
The right middle finger and the right thumb are considered to be the most accurate.
Do I Need an Aviation Pulse Oximeter?
If you fly above 10,000 feet MSL, you should carry a pulse oximeter to monitor for hypoxia, or low blood oxygen, which can lead to confusion and other physiological impairments.
Which Pulse Oximeter Is Right For Pilots?
Since most piston aircraft aren’t pressurized, the right pulse oximeter for pilots is the one in reach at higher altitudes.
Will it Work for You?
Oximeters work better for some than others. Readings may be affected by skin pigmentation, skin thickness, tobacco use, and fingernail polish, according to the FDA.
Display Size
Most clip-on pulse oximeters have large displays offering clear numerical readings.
Readout Time
If you need to check your blood oxygen level while you’re in the cockpit, you don’t have time to waste. Verify readout times for the device before you buy.
Battery Life
Battery life varies among devices, but typically a set of AA or AAA batteries will last for dozens of hours before they need to be replaced.
Price
As with just about any device, there is a range of pulse oximeters on the market that will fit just about every budget.
Breathe Easy
A pulse oximeter is a great tool that helps pilots stay on top of their blood oxygen levels.
FAQ
Can I take a pulse oximeter in an airplane?
Yes, you can take a pulse oximeter in an airplane.
What does a pulse oximeter measure?
A pulse oximeter measures your body’s blood oxygen level.
What oxygen level is too low?
Blood oxygen levels under 90 percent are considered low.
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