Airline cannot accommodate disabled toddler

I see you've resolved the issue OP, but just to say, there are plenty of extended rear facing seats suitable for a 2 yr old. My sons both had them in my small car, until they were 5. Both sons are above average height wise.

Just ignore the weird comments OP, I can’t imagine the people behind them
have much experience of travelling with toddlers. I want my NT 2YO restrained on a flight too because well he’s 2!!! My older DD got loose in a business class suite during take off at that age and that was not a damn thing anyone could do about it. Since then it’s the car seat all the way. It’s also lovely when they fall asleep and you need the loo and you can just get up and go because no one’s head is on your bladder and all you can think about is that you must hold it because the alternative of waking them isn’t worth it 😂

like you I know nothing about the individual circumstances of the OP and her son.

what I do know is sometimes yes things can change and become very apparent much quicker than you think. 6 weeks ago I was thinking I wouldn’t need to take Ds (13) wheelchair away with us for a one night trip as the itinerary I thought he wouldn’t need it. Then things deteriorated with his pain and strength so he actually ended up needing it the whole time. Things change and not always for the better.

I also know that often assessment processes highlight issues and you realise how much of an issue somethings are and what they actually mean. You also learn there may be things available which can help everyone cope better which can only be a good thing surely?

but at the end of the day the OP is taking sensible steps to make the journey easier and safer. Why are people taking such issue with that?

@ChangingTheNarative ignore them. There are some seriously sad people, whose own lives are so crap they have to bring others down.

They're pathetic losers and you’ve bossed your life, got it sorted and are going to have a fantastic holiday 😀

Hope you all have a fantastic holiday!
You'll learn the ropes quite quickly. I'm a mum to a child with DS. You'll probably also find that services can be an uphill battle.
Join lots of groups. These can be a lifesaver!

A CARES harness goes on any seat and doesn’t affect the person behind. I used one before on an easyJet internal Uk flight. I got one on eBay second hand. It’s definitely an option!

Some ignorant feckers need to put themselves in the bin. Unpleasant for pleasure.

Glad you’re sorted, OP

These would still need to be used on the back row only though, as it’s not fair to expect other passengers to forgo their infotainment system / table to accommodate.
I think that was the core issue 😊

I am assuming after the conversations with the airline you are but make sure your flying assit so you will get help at the airport and with boarding/disembarkation

@LovelyIssues odfod - or rtft. OP has already explained that her son’s behaviour has changed since booking the flights. And don’t be so bloody sanctimonious.

@Thewizardbinbag I'm wondering the same. When you booked OP you must have known your child had a disability? These aren't physical disabilities though so why the need for a harness? A diagnosis hasnt changed him/her.

I'm glad you have it sorted. I thought it pretty unlikely that someone else would want the seats at the very back, they are usually the least popular because you can't recline them - unless they also had a similar need for them.

I am delighted this is sorted (although sad that it seems it will involve you in some additional expense) but just wanted to give you some practical advice.

1. Keep that very helpfully provided CAA link somewhere safe. Thanks to the pp who provided it. To save you looking it up, it is https://www.caa.co.uk/passengers/prm/passengers-with-disabilities-and-reduced-mobility
2. Sorry for the bad news, but you are probably learning this already - you are in for a lifetime of fighting for DS's rights. Sign up to things like https://www.disabilitynewsservice.com and prepare for battle! Disabled people are treated like poo in our society, I'm afraid. Also make sure you are registered as a carer and have a look to see what is out there to support you. You sound like a wonderful mum but remember to look after yourself as well x

Hope you have a wonderful holiday! 🛫💐

Some of the responses on this thread 😩!!

And OP has been nothing but nice and was blaming nobody .

So glad it worked out,OP , and hope you have a lovely holiday .

How old is your child? I’m guessing younger than 4 as you mention him being as big as a 4 yr old?

What about a normal reins type harness/body harness so he feels more secure. Does the airline allow a foam type bar thing that fits across the chair across his body?

Excellent news. Just to be on the safe side confirm everything that has been said to you ,and promised, in an email and make a paper copy in case your phone plays up. That way if anything goes wrong, which I am sure it won’t, you have something to show them .

Have you got an occupational therapist? They often have good suggestions for this sort of thing xx

I work for school transport and you can purchase 5 point harness that are attached to the seat (around the back with clips) that support a child to sit in the right position but are used with the proper seat belts for safety.

so you attach the harness to the seat, for the child into that, then use the seatbelt over the top.

google ‘fly safe harness’ specifically for planes. Double check you can use this on your plane though.

https://www.crelling.com/product/model-28-press/

this is similar to what we use on buses and reading it can be used in a car also so may be a good investment purchase for you.

Get the crelling

I have no practical advice but just wanted to say I’m so pleased it’s sorted and ignore all the idiots who are making willfully ignorant comments. Enjoy your holiday!

That’s great, have a good holiday!