Disabled Flights

If you're disabled or are travelling with someone who's physically challenged, it pays to think ahead. Flights for the disabled have come a long way, but some carriers will take only one wheelchair on each flight. You should tell the carrier, such as British Airways or KLM or EasyJet, about your special needs when you book. It's also a good idea to call your hotel to ensure you'll have wheelchair ramps in place and to check on their room service. One important point with disabled flights is to pack with care. You won't want to leave any medication behind. Keep it in your hand luggage, just in case the worst happens to your bags. If your medication has to be kept cool and you're going to Egypt or Australia, try to ensure your accommodation has a mini-fridge. Take extra prescriptions bearing the generic name of the medicine, not the brand name.

 

Airlines have come a long way in providing flights for the disabled, but once you've made your special requests, it's wise to check with the carrier 48 hours before you leave that they've received them and acted on them. Once at the airport, try to check in as soon as possible if you'll be needing assistance boarding the plane. You'll also want your wheelchair to be with you in the plane, as opposed to in the hold. One chair per flight is usually the rule – so make sure it's yours. You should also put a clear label on your wheelchair stating your departure gate, destination, hotel and your address back home. Try to get an aisle seat, in case you need the toilet and try to secure a dedicated steward or stewardess who can help you if need be.

 

Disabled facilities on flights and around airports have improved over the years and there's no reason to think you'll have too many problems as a disabled flyer. But the key is to plan ahead and think of everything that might go wrong on flights for the disabled. One great tip is to go online – there's a forum for just about anything these days, and you're sure to find one about disabled flights where you can ask specific questions of other disabled flyers.