Sleep apnea is an ongoing issue for the pilot population, with the FAA requiring medical examiners to check all pilots for symptoms, but a new device that promises to simplify the treatment could help some of those pilots who are afflicted. The small device, about a cubic inch in size, plugs directly into the user’s nostrils and pumps in a steady flow of air during a full night of sleep, potentially providing an alternative to the bulky full face mask and pump systems now in use. The device debuted on a crowdfunding site Monday morning, and within two hours, the developers had reached their goal of $100,000. Within seven hours, that number had more than doubled, with more than 2,000 contributors. The company founder, Stefan Marsh, says the disposable “Airing” device will cost about $3, and most of the cost will be covered by insurance for most users.
Aviation medical examiner Dr. Brent Blue is taking a wait-and-see approach to the new technology. It might not work for those who need a full face mask that covers the mouth as well as the nose, he told AVweb on Monday, “but for those who do not, it could be pretty useful.” Dr. Blue also noted that the mask and pump is not the only option. “Many folks can have their sleep apnea resolved by weight loss and/or a dental appliance which forces their jaw forward,” he said.
Information at the Indiegogo crowdfunding site says the product will require approval from the Federal Drug Administration before sales can begin. The company is exploring whether the device might be eligible for a fast-track approval process because it’s not really a new treatment, just a miniaturized version of the current technology. The site also says the device can deliver the same pressure as today’s pumps. If all goes well, the company hopes to have the device on the market by mid-2017.
