Travel Day:
So let’s jump right into it with what are the possible services airlines can provide for you. Now before leaving for the airport make sure you have everything for your trip. Everyone will need things like passports, clothes and other such items. For people with disabilities, below is a short list of things that you might require:
- Medicine
- If it is part of checked-in luggage make sure it is wrapped safety to survive the trip.
- If it is required as carry on, make sure it is packed separately in a clear bag that is labelled medicine. Make sure it is easily accessible so that it can be pulled out and shown to security during screening process
- Documentation
- Paperwork that proves your disability.
- Paperwork from a medical professional for all your medication
- Medical aid devices + bags for storage.
Now that you are all packed. Make sure to call the airlines to double check one last time that they are aware that you are on your way and that know about your accessibility needs. Confirm what time you should arrive at the airport to ensure that you will make your flight. Sometimes they may ask you to arrive early so that arrangements can be made for you, like in terminal vehicles or having a support person accompany you through security. Also ask where the information counter is located in the airport, since that will be your first stop.
Checking in:
Once you arrive at the airport, make your way to the information counter. Let them know who you are and any arrangements that were made and what is your IATA code on your ticket. From there you will either be directed or taken to the check in counter. Here drop off of check luggage. If you are transporting medical devices as checked baggage make sure that the airlines knows what it is and that they marked it as fragile. Ask if the checked bags will go directly to your final destination or if you need to pick it up at a connecting flight. Also speak to the check-in counter to have them notify security that you are coming and alternative arrangements you have made such as having a support person, bringing mobility aid devices or having medicine that you need for the flight. Another thing to ask, is if you ask to cut the line at security, due to your disability. Doesn’t work all the time but worth a shot.
Security Screening and Boarding:
Once you have gotten to security make sure that you identify yourself and what condition you have and your needs. They should already be aware but things get missed all the time so best to confirm. Also if check-in counter said they weren’t able to help you with cutting the line, you can ask security personnel one last time. Always worth a shot but be friendly and respectful even if you get rejected.
Now you are finished with security time to make your way to the gate. If you are waiting for transportation services, speak with one of the staff members there to ensure someone is on the way to get you. Once you get the gate, speak to the staff member at the gate and again declare who you are and what are your needs. Make sure that they have accommodations for not only getting you and your luggage onto the plane but also to get you off of the plane once you arrive. Most time they will also allow you to board first so that you have some extra time to get settled. Also if you are taking medical devices with you onto the plane do one last check to make sure it is in 100% working condition.
Flying:
Great, on the plane. Now unless you own a million dollar jet you will probably be seated near other people. The question of do you tell your seatmates about your disability or not needs to be addressed. Honestly, I don’t know the right answer to this question. This is a decision you will have to determine on your own. On the pro side, when things go wrong and people are aware of the situation there is usually more patients and help given. On the con side your fellow passengers could complain about you and this may cause additional problems. All I can say is play it by ear and do what makes sense.
Arrival:
Just before the plane makes its final approach, speak with the in-flight staff to confirm how to disembark and what are the procedures to getting off the airplane and traveling to baggage claim. Once off the plane head over to baggage claim. Inspect everything, make sure all your medical and mobility devices are in working condition. If not you need to file a complaint with the airlines to make sure you are reimbursed for any damaged equipment that was part of your checked in luggage.
Challenge Time:
Well, we just went through a basic idea of how to use air travel while having a disability. In the comment section below I challenge you guys to post your experiences with air travel and any additional tips and tricks that can help make air travel easier for us all. Happy flying.