Airline passenger news and views

It has never really occurred to me how hard it is going to the toilet when you are in a wheelchair and trying to make your way through an airport and board a plane. That was until recently when I again travelled with my disabled Aunt.

I have written previous articles about ‘The many obstacles of travelling with a disability’ and ‘The pitfalls of disabled travel’. However, the use of toilets in airports and then aboard the aircraft is quite a different issue.

Having arrived at the airport and done all the usual checks and customs procedures and eaten a little something prior to our flight, Aunt Joan announced that she needed the toilet prior to boarding. So, I duly proceeded to take her there.

There was quite a queue when we got to the toilet and the disabled toilet was ‘closed for cleaning’.  When we finally found an available toilet, the struggle really began as it was so awkward for Aunt Joan to manoeuvre herself in the small confined area of the loo, just getting her upright and into the loo was a major operation in itself. By the time it was over, I was exhausted.

There really do not seem to be that many disabled facilities within the toilet area, and the airports need to address this situation. 

I can understand why my Aunt would not even attempt to go to the toilet on board the RyanAir flight. Luckily, it was only short haul, and as she explained to me that was the reason she did not fly long haul. This was all too much of a palaver for her to attempt any more.

Airlines really do have to give more thought and consideration to the disabled traveller. We all have basic needs whilst travelling and I now see just how difficult it all is for a disabled passenger.