Some things worth checking..
Since starting this blog, I discovered that some airlines will allow those with serious allergies the right to board the plane ahead of other passengers, so that they can wipe down the seats and surrounding area. I already had flights booked with British Airways and sure enough, after checking on their website it seemed as though they had assured the same. Of course I had to put this to the test!
Early Boarding for those with serious food allergies..
When they called for passengers to board the plane, there was a bit of a delay and a huge queue. I walked to the front, past many a disgruntled look and explained to the lady at the desk that my son had multiple severe allergies, showed her a copy of his care plan and asked if it would be OK to board first. She disappeared for a moment and then came back and asked us to follow her. She took us past a few other people that needed assistance boarding and allowed us to board a good five minutes before anyone else.
One of the Air Stewards then came up to me and said that he had wiped down the area again and said he would be personally looking after us throughout the flight.
Passenger Announcements
They made three separate announcements telling passengers that nuts weren’t allowed on the flight due to someone onboard having a nut allergy and also notified the people seated around us.
Safe Snacks
My son has never been able to eat a thing on any flights in all of his 16 years and although the meals weren’t suitable, they did have some snacks that he could eat. An overall impressive experience, this is definitely progress and I applaud you British Airways!
Know your rights!
I met an American lady whilst on our holiday in St Lucia who had a severe allergy to nuts and a very anxious flyer. She was shocked once I had told her about our experience and had little faith that she would share the same experience on her flight home (different airline). But you know what, she did! It just goes to show, knowledge is power. Websites and airlines don’t make this clear when booking, so it’s definitely worth asking if they will allow you to do this when boarding.
Check out other travel tips to help ensure a safe flight.