Travelling with a disability

Mrs_Ryan

Hi everyone
Just wondered if anyone can tell me how easy it is to travel when you have disabilities?
OH and I are going to Dublin for a short break in August. I haven't flown in a long time and when we last went away by plane I was fit and well but now I have multiple disabilities.
I've booked assistance at the airport and I will be taken through the airport by wheelchair. What will happen at security? I have crutches which I know will have to go through the scanner, which is fine, will I be allowed to go through security in the wheelchair as if they have to scan my crutches I will not be able to walk unaided. Also I usually cover my head as I have alopecia and usually wear a cotton bandana cap. I am very sensitive about having no hair and certainly do not want to have to take off my bandana in public. I asked on the Alopecia forum I am a member of and had mixed responses- some said I should carry a doctor's letter explaining my condition which is why I cover my head but my doctor charges a lot of money to write such letters- should I risk going without it?
I'm going on the lift into the plane and Ryanair have allocated OH and I seats free of charge. Sounds a daft question but what happens with the lift, is it inside the building or outside by the actual plane? Just curious here.
Finally, does anyone know how accessible Dublin is?
I'm worrying myself sick about the whole experience- I know it's possible as mum and dad travel all over the world and they have far worse disabilities than me- I've tried asking mum but she just tells me to stop panicking
Again sorry for sounding daft, I just like to be prepared and know what's going to happen.
Thank you

Sam_Fallow

First off, stop worrying about it.

A few years ago we flew with RyanAir to France with the Mrs in a wheelchair.

The staff at Ryanair were great and took care of us very well. We had seats at the back of the plane with extra legroom (for all 3 in our party).

Disembarkation was just as easy. They will see you through the whole process.

Also, going through security she stayed in her chair and was checked with a hand held scanner.

Don't worry too much about it all, it may be the first time for you but it's something they have done many times.

Enjoy your break.

leylandsunaddict

I'd follow your Mums advise, and stop panicking. Plenty of wheelchair users fly every day, and special assistance and airlines are quite used to it.

With regards to your bandana, if security want you to remove it then I would think you would have to, as you don't actually have a reason for keeping it on, other than personal preference. You will be able to stay in your wheelchair at security.

Octobergirl

We've travelled to SPain / France / canaries a fair few times, with my daughter who uses a wheechair and has complex needs. The level of assistance has always been very good. Although we only take hand luggage, we queue to check in as her wheelchair needs a tag on it.

We are directed to an area for passenger assist and are collected by staff, who take us straight through the scanning area. Our daughter can't walk and is hand scanned.

Wheelchairs are usually last to get on /off the plane, so there is a fair bit of waiting. There is Either a lift and tunnel straight onto the plane or a vehicle that rises to meet the plane. You'll be walked/talked through the whole thing. They have narrow aisle wheelchairs to transfer you on / off the plane. Let them know your'e unsure about the process, they are very helpful and reassuring.

melanzana

Hi OP, where are you staying (approximate area) and what do you plan to do whilst in Dublin?

Dublin is very accessible. In fact every premises by law must have wheelchair access, although some older buildings are exempt as they are protected structures. All buses have wheelchair platforms and on trains and trams, you just wheel yourself on. If you need a wheelchair accessible taxi, you must book this in advance.

How are you getting from the airport to the city (or wherever you are staying)? The Airlink (Dublin Bus) is wheelchair accessible. Costs €6 and stops at or near most hotels in the city. Takes about half an hour depending on traffic.

I very much doubt you will have to remove your scarf/bandana. Think of those going through chemo. Anyway, a quick email to the Dublin Airport Authority will put your mind at ease.

http://www.daa.ie/contact-us/

Oops that should be your departing airport aswell!!

The hotel or lodgings will be wheelchair friendly too. Either with ground floor rooms or a lift and accessible bathroom. Did you specify with your booking that you need an accessible bathroom?

Anything else, please ask.

You will have a great time!