first time flyer....

[Chiefy1966]

Would someone please explain to me what happens when boarding a plane??  My family and i have finally booked a holiday to Florida (with Virgin) in may next year.    I'm a c6,7 t1 para and i just wondered if i get to sit on my gel cushion on the plane as its a 8 hour flight (just concerned about pressure sores?!). Looking forward to going but just little things making me wonder!!.... thanks to anyone that can help! 

[Andy]

hi chiefy

welcome to the forums,

firstltly its essential virgin know before hand you are a chair user, it makes boarding etc a lot easier.  Re cushion, gel cushions can get 'ruined' by the excessive low temps in the planes hold.  Take it with you into cabin regardless of whether you wish to sit on it. [I always sit on mine in the plane seats]

Another prob you may encounter is the stewards insisisting you take a window seat which they have tried with me always insist on aisle seat as it will make your transfers a lot easier

Cheers

Andy

[Andy]

couple more tips 4 u .........

don't let check-in staff insist you transfer to 'airport' chair from your own chair at baggage check-in stay in your own chair. until you board aircraft
 
depending on width of your chair it may or may not fit down aisle of virgins large bodied planes, if it doesn't fit you'll have to transfer to an aisle chair first, this is done at door of plane and usually before anyone else boards there should be at least two staff to help you, heres a pic



you'll find this page useful too

http://www.spinal-injury.net/disabled-flying-guide.htm

have a great holiday

any questions please ask

[Chiefy1966]

Hi Andy 

thanx for your reply!  I have to say after looking at that aisle chair then looking at my 17 stone+ body that chair looks like its gunna be 'challenged'!! .

thanks for your help! i'm sure i'll be asking for more advice nearer the time!