Travel is one of life’s greatest pleasures, and should be enjoyed by everybody regardless of their ability levels. For people with disabilities, travel can seem overwhelming and at times impossible. This can lead to missing out on study abroad, student-led treks, exchange programs, group travel, and more.
However, Students Fare is here to ensure that travelers, especially students and youth, can take accessible flights to their dream destinations! We’re providing information on researching, planning, booking, and experiencing mobility-friendly air travel.
Guide to Accessible Air Travel
Plan in Advance
Air transportation is already a stressful task, but adding a traveler with a disability brings another level of complexity. Consider partnering with a reputable travel agent or agency, such as Students Fare, who can easily navigate the airports and airlines on both domestic and foreign lands.
The most important task is researching and planning far ahead of time. For the airports you’ll be flying at, research what options are available for passengers with disabilities. This can often include wheelchair and guided assistance, assistive devices, seating accommodations, etc. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has specific guidelines that must be followed for people with disabilities and medical conditions.
Pick Your Flight
After determining the airline and airport you plan on using, verify that the individual can fly or if they’ll need a companion. If there is not already a trusted individual who can assist for the entirety of the flight, then one can be arranged for you. It’s also possible that special arrangements will have to be made for mobility aids. Students Fare agents can assist you in finding a trusted and reliable travel companion, as well as any other special medical requests.
At least 48 hours before traveling, you must call the airline to verify that the information about your traveler is correct and confirmed.
It’s also important to know your rights. Review important documents such as the Air Carrier Access Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Although the United States is required to be ADA-compliant, don’t assume that the foreign equivalent will be.
Bring or Borrow Equipment
Another big choice for the traveler will be bringing or borrowing accessibility equipment. The benefits of bringing your equipment include the added comfort of familiar tools and less worry about arranging transportation. On the flip side, borrowing equipment results in a decreased risk of damaging or completely losing expensive equipment.
For those traveling with service animals, they will need to be compliant with the airline and airport requirements. Airlines are permitted to deny transport to a service dog if it violates safety requirements, poses a direct threat to the health of others, causes a significant disruption, or violates health requirements.
Add Medical Insurance
Anything can happen while traveling, so it’s best to be prepared for everything – especially when traveling with an individual at high-risk or important medical equipment. With AIG Travel Guard, Students Fare can ensure your trip is protected from health emergencies, lost or damaged baggage, and even canceled flights. In addition to this peace of mind and protection, you’ll also receive 24/7 support from a team of travel experts dedicated to solving any problem.
Get In the Air with Students Fare!
The only thing getting in the way of your adventure should be the distance between you and your destination! Planning accessible air travel can be incredibly difficult, especially if you’re facing it alone. With the dedicated assistance of Students Fare, a travel agent can assist you with contacting the airport and carrier, securing additional assistance, and even getting a private personal helper to guide you on your flight. The possibilities are endless, all you have to do is email info@studentsfare.com or call Students Fare and a representative will reach out within 24 hours.
