With the holiday travel season peaking Wednesday, Los Angeles International Airport officials urged families with autistic or disabled members not to shy away from air travel, saying flight attendants and security screeners are trained to be sensitive to their needs.
Lawrence Rolon, the airport’s disabilities coordinator, suggested notifying boarding agents and flight attendants about autistic travelers, who can board planes early if the wait becomes exasperating to them.
If outbursts do occur, he said airline personnel should be able to suggest “a quiet area where you can go until the family member calms down.”
Advance planning is key to smoothing the way for other disabled travelers, he said. It is best to reserve wheelchairs — which are free at LAX – – for the flight time. At peak travel times, they are in high demand and there could be delays, he said. Tipping attendants is not necessary.
For special accommodations on the plane, airlines should be notified at least three days in advance of the flight for such things as oxygen tanks or portable dialysis equipment. Documentation is required if traveling with a comfort or psychiatric service animal.
Special security screening arrangements can be made by calling TSA Cares at (855) 787-2227.
Rolon also suggested airline passengers with disabilities bring a kit with extra medication, a copy of their doctor’s phone number and other necessities. Syringes are allowed on planes if brought along with pharmacy- labeled medication.
Luggage, bags and equipment accompanying the traveler should have identification on the outside and inside, airport officials said.
