Money
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Nov 14, 2025
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3 min read
Surviving the unfriendly skies
Tips to safely navigate and survive the chaos at the airport.Last year it was reported that more than 5.8 million passengers traveled domestically, primarily by flight, during the Thanksgiving holiday. Although there isn't any updated data, I'm pretty sure quite a few of those passengers were apart of the disabled/chronically ill community. Recent news footage of downed planes, staff shortages, and mother nature displaying her finest handiwork, have left passengers stranded on airport floors or wherever they could find a spot, all over the country.Chills run down my spine watching these passengers struggling to switch flights, escape an impending storm or find an alternative method of travel altogether. I get it, there are many things beyond our control and we simply cannot anticipate every event. That being said, my brain doesn't understand that and so I've come up with some tips and ideas that may be of use to my fellow Spoonie's or those that may be traveling with them during this hectic holiday season.Tips:1. Have a reserved method of travel ready. I know, it's a pain and can be expensive but considering all of the hiccups mentioned above, you need to have a solid contingency plan in place. Make sure every point of contact for the trip you're planning, is made aware that you are or are traveling with a disabled/medically fragile (whichever terminology suits you best) passenger. This helps avoid some of the repetitive explaining ahead of time and often makes getting what you need a little easier. Reserve that rental car, bus, etc. Have this in place before you make your way to the airport. Your future self will thank you.2. Take your mobility aid with you. Prior to taking flight, if you have any mobility challenge whatsoever, be sure you have the aid of choice and a backup. Airport corridors feel longer than 10 football fields joined together, so having that scooter, wheelchair or whatever you use, in advance will save you time and energy. Delta for example has several options to support disabled travelers. The options below are straight from their website.* White-Glove Service: Delta's customer mobility team offers specialized service for customers with assistive devices, ensuring proper handling and care.*Wheelchair Services: Delta provides various wheelchair services, including curbside service, aisle wheelchair service, and onboard wheelchair service. Customers can request these services when booking their flight or through the My Trips section*Accessible Travel Services: Delta provides assistance before, during, and after travel, including help with boarding, disembarking, and luggage retrieval. Customers can request assistance through the My Trips section or by contacting Delta directly.*Service Animals: Delta welcomes service animals in the aircraft cabin, such as dogs and monkeys trained to assist passengers with mobility, visual, or hearing disabilities. For more information on Delta's accessible travel services, customers can visit the Delta website or contact Delta Sales Support or Delta Reservations for assistance.3. Lodging. I know, it's a lot to do but better to reserve a nearby hotel or minute suites when reserving your flight. Arthritic bones, cramping muscles and inflamed lungs have no business camping on the floor. While the minute suites may not be luxurious, from what I've seen, they are private, clean, convenient and economical. https://minutesuites.comLastly, light packing isn't strong suit but, if at all possible, try to travel with only carry on pieces that you can comfortably carry if necessary. This eliminates that dreadful walk to luggage pickup and lightens your load should there be any delay.
