Flying to New York

[Lynne]

Hi folks,

Haven't been on here for a while but I was wondering if anybody here could give my son (and me too) a few tips about flying.  He is planning on going on holidays for one week to New York in November. You may remember he is a C2-C3 complete quad.  This will be his first time ever out of the country (we live in Dublin, Ireland) and I am absolutely terrified something will go wrong, but of course he tells me I am always worrying!! His wheelchair is big,  obviously with arm and head rests.  As far as I know he will only be bringing his manual chair. How will he get into the seat on the plane as he does not do transfers.  Will the staff on board help with his seating? I know I will have to contact the airline when he does finally book his seats.  I forgot to mention he will be going with his girfriend (yes the romance is still going strong) and his dad.

Thanks in advance.

Lynne

[Andy]

hi lynne
this post covers most things and includes link to 'flying' section on main site:-

http://spinal-injury.net/forums/index.php/topic,1600.0.html

the type of wheelchair he takes makes a big difference, there is more involved taking a powerchair, most important thing is planning, every airline has people to help and advise you.

Andy

[Lynne]

Thanks Andy will send him that link.

Lynne

[McTavish]

Hi Lynne,
I'm also in Dublin and have flown from Dublin Airport lots of times,usually without a hitch. Whatever airline your son is travelling with he will have to ring them after booking his tickets and make them aware of all his details, type of chair, weight etc. There will be no problem getting him into his seat as he will be lifted off the portable chair that brings him onto the plane by two airport staff, one will grab his legs and the other under his arms, and in a jiffy he will be seated comfortably.
Hope he has a great time in the Big Apple.
McTavish