Flying with a child who has special needs: Top 5 tips

Traveling by air can be stressful for any family, but for those with children who have special needs, it requires even more careful planning. However, with the right strategies in place, flying can be a manageable and even enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Choosing the right airline and taking advantage of helpful accommodations can significantly reduce anxiety and ensure a smoother journey. Here are five essential flying tips to help families with special needs have a stress-free flight.

Choose Special Needs-Friendly Airlines

Not all airlines offer the same level of support for families flying with a child who has special needs, so selecting the right one can make a big difference.

Delta, Southwest, and JetBlue are often recommended for their proactive assistance with travelers who require special accommodations. These airlines provide services like pre-boarding for families, extra assistance with boarding and deplaning, and helpful onboard staff trained to make your experience as comfortable as possible.

Delta – Known for its accessibility services, Delta provides assistance from the moment you arrive at the airport. They offer services like wheelchair assistance and extra help with baggage.
Southwest – This airline is popular for its family-friendly policies. Southwest offers flexible seating, meaning you can board early to choose seats that work best for your family. (Keep an eye out though, in 2025, Southwest is changing its policies.)
JetBlue – With its spacious seats and known reputation for excellent customer service, JetBlue ensures passengers with special needs feel supported throughout the journey.

Booking with these airlines ensures you have the best support system in place, whether it’s dealing with security checks, special seating arrangements, or specific dietary needs.

Take Advantage of Pre-Boarding and Bulkhead Seating

Pre-boarding can be a lifesaver when traveling with a child who has special needs. By boarding early, you have more time to get your child settled into their seat and avoid the rush of other passengers. This extra time allows for a smoother transition and helps to prevent sensory overload, which can be especially important in crowded and noisy environments like airplanes.

When booking your tickets, try to request bulkhead seating or seats with extra legroom. Bulkhead seats are located at the front of the plane and offer additional space, making them ideal for families with children who may need room to stretch or play. Many airlines will accommodate these requests if you let them know your family’s needs in advance.

Bring Comfort Essentials

Air travel can be a sensory overload for anyone, but it can be particularly challenging when flying with a child who has special needs Bringing along a “comfort kit” of familiar items can help ease anxiety and create a sense of normalcy. Pack items like:

Noise-canceling headphones to block out the loud engine noises and other disruptive sounds.
Favorite toys, blankets, or comfort items that can help calm your child during the flight.
Snacks your child is familiar with or enjoys, especially if they have dietary restrictions.
A tablet or device loaded with movies, shows, or games they love to keep them entertained throughout the trip.

Having these items on hand ensures that your child feels secure, entertained, and comfortable during the flight.

Inform the Airline in Advance

To make the most of your flight experience, it’s crucial to communicate with the airline early. When you book your flight, contact the airline’s customer service and notify them of your child’s specific needs. This way, they can provide accommodations like:

Priority boarding or pre-boarding assistance.
Special seating arrangements, such as aisle seats for easy access to bathrooms.
Dietary accommodations if your child requires specific meals.

Airlines like Delta, Southwest, and JetBlue are particularly responsive to such requests, ensuring that your family is supported from the moment you arrive at the airport.

Plan for Smooth Security Checks

Security checks are often a point of stress, especially when flying with a child who has special needs, but they don’t have to be. Programs like TSA Cares are designed specifically to assist families traveling with special needs. By contacting TSA Cares at least 72 hours before your flight, you can arrange for a dedicated agent to guide your family through the security process. This minimizes confusion and potential anxiety for both you and your child.

Additionally, inform the TSA officers of any accommodations your child may need. Whether it’s avoiding sensory triggers or requesting a private security screening, communicating these needs upfront will help things move more smoothly.

Conclusion

Flying with a child who has special needs doesn’t have to be frustrating! With careful planning, the right airline, and support systems in place, your family can enjoy a stress-free flight and focus on the excitement of your destination. For more personalized travel advice, reach out to one of our expert travel advisors at Your Fairytale Vacation. We’re here to help you plan every detail of your family’s next adventure. Contact us here and let us make your next trip unforgettable!