Seniors flying by plane – do you need PRM?
Before you buy a ticket, think about how you want to get through the airport. This matters especially when a senior flies very rarely or has limited mobility.
When is it worth considering PRM?
If a longer walk tires you out, you have trouble with balance, you use a cane/walker/wheelchair, or you simply want someone to guide you through the airport.
What is PRM?
PRM is assistance for passengers with reduced mobility. In practice it means help with, among other things, check-in, the security check, getting to the gate, boarding and after landing. Thanks to this, seniors' journeys are calmer and less stressful.
How and when to request PRM?
It is best to do so right when you book your ticket, and at least 48 hours before departure. You make the request with the carrier or the trip organiser — you briefly state what kind of help you need.
Medication and documents always within reach for a senior on a plane
When a senior travels by plane, a simple rule works best: keep your medication and documents on you at all times, not in checked baggage. This gives you peace of mind even if a delay comes up.
Medication checklist:
• a short list of medications (names, doses, times),
• medication in its original packaging,
• a small one-day supply in case plans change.
Liquids and medication in hand luggage:
• as standard, liquids are carried in containers of up to 100 ml in a transparent bag of up to 1 litre,
• medical and dietary items may be exempt — so keep them easily accessible for the check.
A kit for your pocket or a small pouch:
• ID card/passport,
• EHIC or insurance policy (EHIC is the European Health Insurance Card),
• a list of contacts,
• a phone and charger (and possibly a power bank).
Luggage for a senior's flight – what to pack and how to dress?
When a senior travels by plane, one rule really helps: pack less. That makes it easier to get through the terminal and avoid getting tired on the way.
What is worth keeping within reach:
• documents and boarding pass,
• medication taken on an ongoing basis,
• tissues, a phone and charger,
• water (best bought after the security check) and a small snack,
• a thin layer to put on (e.g. a sweater or scarf).
Clothing for the day of the flight:
• dress in layers, because the temperature can vary in the terminal and on the plane,
• choose comfortable shoes, ideally ones that are easy to slip off and put back on.
If you are flying with a low-cost airline:
• before packing, check the dimensions and weight allowance for your fare. This is a common cause of stress and extra fees, and it can be avoided with a single check before you set off.
Departure day – getting there, time at the airport and passing through the check
How early should you be at the airport? Arrive with a bigger time buffer, especially if you are using PRM, you have checked baggage or you fly rarely. That way you can calmly get through check-in and security and reach the gate. If you are going by car, booking a parking space in advance reduces stress. When you use our car park near Chopin Airport with a transfer, getting to the terminal tends to be easier – our shuttle takes about 10 minutes.
Security check – the most important rules:
• liquids as standard up to 100 ml in a transparent bag of up to 1 litre,
• keep medical and dietary items within reach,
• keep your ID document and boarding pass in one easily accessible place.
A senior on a plane: how to stay comfortable during the flight?
Once a senior is on board, two things matter: comfort during the flight and a ready, simple plan of action in case of delays or a cancelled flight.
On the plane:
• if you can choose your seat, an aisle seat is often a practical option (it is easier to stand up and reach the toilet),
• move your feet and legs from time to time, and on a longer flight — if possible — stand up for a moment and take a few steps,
• drink water regularly, in small sips.
After landing:
• if PRM assistance was requested, it is best to stick to the indicated points and the procedure — the staff will guide you through the next stages as agreed,
• if you have checked baggage, follow the signs to the baggage reclaim area.
Plan B in case of a delayed or cancelled flight:
• check the airline's announcements (SMS, e-mail, app) as well as the information boards at the airport,
• the carrier usually informs you about the available options, such as rebooking or a refund (depending on the situation),
• it is worth having medication and something to drink in your “on-the-go kit” — that way a longer wait is less of a burden.
A calm flight for a senior begins before the ticket is bought
A senior's flight can be calm and predictable if you sort out a few simple things in advance. The most important thing is not to leave the preparations to the last minute — that way you have time to match the flight to your needs (or those of a loved one) and get through the airport without rushing.
