Booking a Plane Ticket (and Special Assistance)

Decide on the Details of Your Flight

Before booking your flight, gather all the necessary details.

• Choose your destination: Where are you flying to? Look up the options that fit your travel dates and preferences.

• Pick your travel dates: Decide on the dates and times you want to travel.

• Determine your preferred flight time: Choose a time that is comfortable for you. If you're sensitive to crowds or noise, you might prefer quieter times of the day (early morning or late evening flights may be less busy).

• Consider the type of flight: Is it direct or with layovers? If you find long journeys or changing flights stressful, consider booking a direct flight or shorter connections.

Look for Special Assistance Information

Most airlines provide special assistance services for passengers with additional needs. It’s important to look into these options before you book.

• Check the airline’s website: Most airlines have a section on their website dedicated to special assistance. Look for information on how to book special assistance, what services they offer, and how to prepare for your flight.

• Contact the airline directly: If you can’t find the information you need, call the airline’s customer service and explain that you need assistance due to anxiety or autism. They will guide you through the process of arranging support.

Special assistance services may include:

• Priority boarding: Boarding the plane early so you can avoid the crowds.

• Assistance with security and boarding: Helping you get through security and getting to your seat on the plane.

• Seating arrangements: You may be able to request seats that provide more space or are located in quieter areas of the plane.

• Access to lounges: Some airlines offer access to quiet spaces before your flight, which can help reduce stress.

• Meet-and-greet service: Assistance from the moment you arrive at the airport until you board the plane.

Book Your Flight

Once you’ve decided on your flight details, you can proceed with booking your ticket. Here are some ways to do that:

Book Online

• Go to the airline’s website: Look for the flight you want and select the appropriate options for your destination, dates, and times.

• Select your seat: If the airline allows, choose your seat. For special assistance, it’s often better to choose a seat near the front of the plane or in a quieter area.

• Look for special assistance options: On the booking page, there may be a section for “special requests” or “accessibility.” Select this option to indicate that you need special assistance.

• Complete the booking: After adding special assistance, fill out your personal information, including any relevant details regarding your needs. Confirm the booking and proceed with payment.

Book by Phone

• Call the airline’s customer service: If you prefer to speak with someone, call the airline’s customer service number.

• Request assistance: Tell the agent that you need to book a flight and request special assistance. They will help guide you through the process.

• Confirm your needs: Let them know if you have specific requirements, such as priority boarding, a quiet seat, or assistance getting through security.

• Finalise your booking: Once everything is arranged, they will help you finalise your booking and send you a confirmation.

Confirm Special Assistance

After booking your flight, it’s important to confirm that your special assistance is in place.

• Call the airline again: It’s a good idea to follow up a few days after booking to confirm that the special assistance is noted on your reservation.

• Ask about the details: Double-check the services you’ll receive (e.g., priority boarding, seating preferences, assistance at the airport, etc.).

• Ask about any additional support: Some airlines offer additional support options for passengers, such as pre-flight calming resources or support for during the flight.

Prepare for the Airport

Now that your flight is booked and special assistance is arranged, you can prepare for your trip:

• Pack ahead of time: Gather everything you need for your flight, including your ticket, identification, medication, comfort items, and anything that helps you stay calm (e.g., noise-cancelling headphones, sensory items, snacks).

• Prepare documents: Have your flight confirmation and any necessary documents (like proof of disability, if required) handy.

• Contact your airport: If you're flying from a large airport, call ahead to confirm that special assistance is ready for you at the airport. Some airports may have a specific desk where you can check in for assistance.

• Make a plan for getting to the airport: Plan your journey to the airport, and allow plenty of time to get there. Arriving early will give you time to navigate the airport without feeling rushed.

Arriving at the Airport

When you arrive at the airport, here’s how to make your experience as smooth as possible:

• Go to the special assistance desk: Upon arrival, find the special assistance desk. This could be near check-in or in a designated area. If you’re not sure where it is, ask a staff member.

• Check-in for your flight: If you haven’t already checked in online, do so at the desk. Let the staff know you need assistance, and they will guide you through the rest of the process.

• Use the quiet areas: If the airport has designated quiet areas, consider using them to relax before your flight. Airports often have lounges or spaces for people with special needs.

• Follow staff instructions: Airport staff will help you with security, boarding, and any other needs. They’ll ensure you have priority boarding and assistance as needed.

• Stay calm: If you feel anxious, use your coping strategies (deep breathing, sensory objects, or noise-cancelling headphones). Don’t hesitate to ask for extra support if you need it.

Boarding the Plane

Once it’s time to board, here’s what you can expect:

• Priority boarding: As part of your special assistance, you will be allowed to board the plane earlier than other passengers. This will give you extra time to settle into your seat.

• Assistance to your seat: If you need help getting to your seat or storing your carry-on items, the cabin crew or airport staff will assist you.

• During the flight: If you have specific needs during the flight (e.g., noise, comfort, or food needs), let the flight attendants know ahead of time, so they can help make the flight more comfortable for you.

Arriving at Your Destination

When you arrive at your destination, airport staff will assist you:

• Meet-and-greet service: If you need help after you disembark, the special assistance staff will meet you at the gate and help you get to baggage claim or through customs.

• Ask for help if needed: Don’t hesitate to ask for any extra support when you arrive, whether it’s for transportation or finding a quiet space.

Final Thoughts

Booking a plane ticket and arranging special assistance may seem like a lot, but taking it step by step makes it manageable. By carefully planning your flight, confirming your special assistance needs, and preparing ahead of time, you can make the experience smoother and less stressful. Airlines and airports are there to help you, and don’t hesitate to ask for support whenever you need it.