Medical Issue

[ThaiPauly]

I am flying to the UK in about 6 weeks.

The thing is, I have a medical problem which means that I need a silicon filled cushion to sit on all the time.

It's a royal pain in the ass.

It would be very difficult for me to make the flight without it.

What worries me is ...will they let me take it on the plane?

My doctor says he will give me a letter which will explain what my problem is, but would that cut it?

Airlines today, and I expect BA would be one of the stricter airlines would not really care how much discomfort I am in.

I could cancel, but the whole point of my visit is to see my newly born grandchild and the problem I have is incurable, so if I don't go now I will never be able to go.

Has anyone any useful advice?

Thanks

TP

[chiang mai]

I had a similar problem last year when I developed coccydynia (tailbone pain) which requires a circular cushion with a hollow centre to relieve extreme pain. I was able to find a temporary inflatable one for my plane trip to the UK, the airlines had no problem with it since it was part of carry on luggage. Maybe an option for you.

[noahvail]

I've found that for what might be "questionable" items, a letter from you to the airline, with a letter from the doctor along with the manufacturer's specification sheet and a photo a few weeks in advance will get you a letter from the airline allowing you to have it on board. That letter will pre-empt security and the airline folks from hassling you about it. In Thailand, they prefer the letter to be from a government hospital with a blue stamp near the doctor's signature.

I don't see any problems with silicone, it will be clear on the x-ray.

Enjoy seeing the grand-kid!

[dddave]

I fly a lot as an air courier and frequently bring a supplementary cushion packed into my carry-on bag. I've never had a problem with security not allowing it.

I can not think of ever being questioned about it actually.

[happynthailand]

better to be safe than sorry,take the paper work along

Edited January 17, 2015 by happynthailand

[RKASA]

I think the issue might be the jell like content thus an inflatable would pass OK - and a letter from a doctor might help but they would also assume they are a dime a dozen too. I know in the US airports they have a special scanner that can test it and pass it along like they do medical required bottles etc you just have to ask.

The airline booking site often have a section were you can get information and provide advance notice that you will have a special need for a device. I would for sure talk to them about the device as soon as possible before the flight like at time of booking on how they want to clear it if you don't simply substitute it with an inflatable.

PS if they do just want a letter or what ever in any case bring the inflatable as a back up plan - it will be less a pain in the ass if they take it from you. i.e. plan B

Edited January 17, 2015 by RKASA