[nabs-l] First-time flyer, and I'm looking for advice

[autTeal Bloodwortho]

Hello Christopher

I myself have only flown once and was treated with dignity by the airport 
attendants. You do need to be specific, as in other impairment you may or 
may not have. Personally I was never asked if I wanted to sit in a wheel 
chair but I also arrived at the airport departure gate  with sighted guide 
and my foldable white cane erect. I was checked like any other passenger 
(cell phones, keys, etc need to be removed from your pockets). I myself was 
allowed to board the plane first but I was flying on a smaller plane that 
wasn't very crowded,

I believe you are allowed 2 carry on baggage . This is where I put my 
electronic devices (labtop, stream, etc) and perscription medication and 
such. I don't remember the weight for these but think duffle bag/labtop bag 
or for a woman a purse. in your check in luggage you need to put any 
shampoos, soaps, shaving utensils, colognes, etc. I don't know how long ago 
it was that you last flew but security is alittle ridiculous. Even if you 
come to the airport with food or drink you are not allowed on the plane with 
it.

hope i helped in some way. larger, busier airports are going to be slower in 
finding a flight attendant to assist you and you really have to be patient. 
I know in detroit from my arrival point to my departure point I had to go 
through 4 elevators and a moving sidewalk. You also may wanna keep your 
ittenary handy since your attendants may need the gate information.

Good Luck
    -Teal
 ----- 
From: "christopher meyer" <christopher.meyer007 at gmail.com>
To: <nabs-l at nfbnet.org>
Sent: Monday, March 21, 2011 5:32 PM
Subject: [nabs-l] First-time flyer, and I'm looking for advice


> Hey folks, my name's Christopher Meyer. I've been following the
> message threads on the NABS list for, what, five or six months? This
> is my first time getting my name out to you all. I would rather have
> done so with just a "nice to meet you" post about myself, but a
> pressing matter takes priority for me.
>
> I'm eighteen, blind, learning self-confidence, embracing the use of my
> cane, getting ready for college in the fall, and the prep program at
> Blind, Inc. in Miniapolis over the summer.
>
> That's all background information to explain that I'm becoming more
> acceptant of what I can see--or really what I can't see.
>
> In two weeks, I'll be facing a good test of this "new-found
> confidence" as I've seen some of the NFB centers say they provide. I'm
> going to be flying by myself for the first time through Indianapolis
> International, Chicago Midway, and Newark Airport. I found the TSA's
> travel information and tips for "persons with disabilities and medical
> issues," which were helpful and reassuring for the security checkpoint
> process. I've contacted my airline support, told them I'll be flying
> in two weeks and will need an assistant. And I know that I can take my
> cane along without it counting as a cary-on piece or personal item.
>
> Other than that, what do I need to know and prepare for? I've flown
> before a few years back and just vaguely remember the general airport
> layout. I do mean vaguely, so I'm anxious not knowing what to expect
> on that front. Any tips or information worth sharing?
>
> I'll be clear: I'm naturally pretty good at improvising. What I don't
> know right now I'll figure out soon enough--maybe while I'm en route
> to my first gate, maybe in Midway for my transfer and layover, maybe
> in Newark at baggage pickup. Who knows. But I'm also the kind of
> person who wants to be prepared for a challenge and hit it head-on,
> but prepared nonetheless.
> Eager to hear back all the same.
>
>
> Christopher
>
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