Try before you fly!

Chris Etches our support network coordinator for the East Midlands has been working closely with East Midlands Airport to raise awareness and support for disabled travellers with particular emphasis on those with a spinal cord injury (SCI) or cauda equina.

The airport is now re-introducing the ‘Try before you fly’ experience.  The first session will be on 15 February and they’re keen to welcome SCI people and those with cauda equina to this day.   

If you would like to get back to traveling by air but feel a bit daunted about the prospect of passing through an airport a ‘Try before you fly’ experience could be just what you need.  The experience will take you from check in through to departure with opportunities to experience transfers on the Ambulift, hoisting and isle wheelchairs to name just a few.  The session will give the opportunity to ask questions and voice any concerns to the customer management team at the airport.  Participants will also pass back through security and customs as though they are returning from a trip abroad.  It really is an opportunity to familiarise with the airport before travel.

To register for Wednesday 15 February please email the airport directly on [email protected] with your contact details.  A representative from the airport will then contact you with all the relevant information for the day and to confirm your booking.  Once booked on you will receive all the details by email including the requirements for obtaining a temporary security pass to allow you to pass through though as part of the experience.

If you can’t make that date East Midlands Airport will be running further days throughout the year further details can be found on their website .  You can also email them to find out about the next available dates, it is useful to state whether you are wheelchair user as they are looking to set up specific experiences geared to those needs.

If you’d like any further information or to discuss travel or any other aspect of life with SCI please contact your local support network coordinator.