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Flying With Special Needs: In-Flight And Beyond
by Anya Clowers, RN
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In Flight
- Communicate your needs to the chief flight attendant. However, realize that the flight attendants are not on the flight to care for you. Any medical equipment alarms need to be responded to by you or your traveling companion. Do not rely on the flight crew to administer your medication or care for you medically. If you need assistance and do not know anyone who can travel with you, consider hiring a medical escort (www.flyingcompanions.com - mention Jet Seven for $50 Off).
- Remember to move around (in-seat exercises) if possible and to stay hydrated. Speak with your physician about proper amounts of hydration to combat the dehydration that occurs in flight. Dehydration = thicker blood= increased chance to have blood clots.
Connections
- Short connections are not worth the stress. Allow extra time to make connections, realizing that using the restroom or eating will most likely be on the agenda and gates may be a great distance apart. Give yourself plenty of time to make your connection without rushing.
- Nonstop flights or connections? This depends on your situation. For some it is better to get it over all at once, for others it is not worth the discomfort for great lengths of time.
Arrivals
- Depending on the level of assistance needed, you may be the last passenger off the plane. Plan accordingly for extra time.
- If someone is meeting you at the airport, ask him or her to request a security pass from the ticket counter to meet you at the gate if you need additional assistance. They will need bring identification and inform the ticket agent that you require extra assistance.
Destination
- Need to rent medical equipment? Looking for a wheelchair accessible vehicle? Plan ahead for what your daily needs are at your destination. Do not wait until you arrive to realize that the stores are closed or the items need to be ordered.
Legal side of Air Travel with Disabilities:
http://law.justia.com/us/cfr/title14/14cfr382_main_02.html
What does the Department of Transportation Advise?
http://www.dotcr.ost.dot.gov/documents/acc/horizons.pdf
Aviation Consumer Protection (DOT)
http://airconsumer.ost.dot.gov/rules/20011029.htm
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Anya Clowers is a registered nurse, travel expert, consultant, and author of the book, Jet With Kids. Actively involved in the travel, medical, juvenile, and senior product industries, she assists thousands of families to travel safely and self-sufficiently. Anya flies monthly with her world-traveling preschooler to research and consult on travel. Pack peace of mind - visit www.JetWithKids.com
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| © JetWithKids.com. This article may not be republished without permission.
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