We have flown on both domestic and international flights and have experienced some of the challenges that present themselves unexpectedly in both situations. Generally we have found staff of the passenger assist unit and the cabin crew knowledgeable and helpful. On checking in, we have been met by a staff member who escorts us through security and to the boarding gates and helps us onto the vehicle that transports people with disabilities to the plane.

On one domestic flight, as we were about to land at our destination, the airport was declared closed due to a severe storm, so instead of touching down, the plane began to climb again and we were diverted to another city where we were given the choice to disembark and make our own arrangements there, or to wait half an hour when they would attempt to land again at our destination, and failing that, we would turn around and return to Cape Town. Fortunately we were able to land on the second attempt, but it was a little nerve-wracking for Damian at first, and having to make a decision on whether to disembark in Port Elizabeth, 3 hours away from our destination in East London, without a backup plan, or to take the chance on the second attempt and possibly return home.

On an international flight to Ireland, we had a half hour layover in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. We were told to wait on the plane until everyone had disembarked while they fetched our wheelchair. With time running out, and still no wheelchair, eventually we had to carry Damian, running through the airport with a member of staff, trying not to miss our next plane. Both these situations were a reminder to have essential items packed in hand luggage in case you and your checked-in luggage get separated, so that at least you can survive a day or two while sorting out any luggage catastrophes.