After you have chosen an airline it is time to book your flight. As always the number one tip when booking a flight is to book it early! Booking early is important if you want to get all the options you want including the schedule and seats you desire. Here are some reminders when booking a flight.
1. Schedule – Book flights wherein the airline expects the least number of passengers. If you are going on a trip during the holiday season this will probably not apply to you since almost all flights are always full but if you’re going on a trip on a regular month then opt for a flight when you can be sure to have less people in the airport. This usually means going on very late or very early flights. There are several advantages to this strategy but the two major for me is that airport personnel wouldn’t have their hands too full and will be able to attend to the needs of ALL their passengers more quickly, whether or not you are disabled. This is true before and after the flight. They might be more amendable to letting you oversee that loading of your wheelchair since they won’t be hardpressed to hurry so much about loading things (and they’ll be more careful during loading as well since they’re not in a too much of a hurry!). Flight attendants will also have less passengers to look after so you will be able to get their attention more easily.
2. Seats – Book the seat nearest to the door AND the bathroom. It will make it so much easier to get on and off the plane, which is not only
convenient but also critical during emergencies (although we try not to think of this one!). The bathroom might not be important for short flights but it is critical (more than the door) if you are going on a long trip.
3. Book a direct flight – If possible always book a flight that goes
straight to your destination. Connecting flights can be a big hassle. It is easier to get on and off one plane and have to deal with just one set of airport personnel and policies.