Mom & Autistic Son Thrown Off Flight

     On June 25th, 2008 an American Eagle flight ready for take-off in Raleigh, North Carolina returned to its gate to remove two passengers for supposed airline regulation violations: a mother and her two year-old autistic son. The airline is standing by its actions by declaring the mother had refused to stow her carry-on baggage in the overhead compartment, and that the child’s wild behavior was only an additional issue. However, the mother claims that her son was subjected to inappropriate behavior by the crew, prompting her son to become even more defiant. While this story continues, it is not the first time a child has been ejected from a flight for “questionable actions,” prompting a debate on what violations should be considered when having children removed from flights.
     In July 2007, a mother and her toddler son were removed from a Continental flight in Houston because her son kept repeating the words “Bye, bye plane.” The mother claimed that a stewardess approached her and demanded she “shut her baby up,” followed by her recommendation that she drug her child with cold medication to ensure a quiet flight. Not only was the mother outraged by the attendant’s responses, but other passengers began arguing on her behalf. However, it didn’t stop the plane from returning to the terminal and ejecting the mother and son, stranding them in Houston without their luggage.
     In January 2007, a three year-old threw a temper tantrum during boarding in the middle of the aisle on an AirTran flight, resulting in her and her parents’ removal. After holding the plane for 15 minutes, the airline decided to boot the family from the flight and banned them from flying for the next 24 hours.  Much like the previous incident covered, a few passengers were vocal against the crew, arguing with them to allow the family to remain on the flight.  Later, AirTran apologized to the family and offered them ticket refunds, as well as a complimentary flight to anywhere they chose. Not surprisingly, the family refused, and has vowed never to fly with them again.
     Another family was ejected from a Delta flight from Burlington, Vermont in 2006 because the mother was breast-feeding her baby. A flight attendant approached the mother and offered her a blanket, instructing her to cover herself due to her “offensive” behavior. The mother refused, exclaiming that breast-feeding is legal in public areas, including airplanes. Several minutes later, a ticket agent boarded the plane and removed the family based on the attendant’s complaint. Even though the airline arranged for a hotel and flight the next day for the family, they were adamant that they were treated unjustly. The family filed a discrimination complaint against the airline, sparking a protest within the airport by sympathizers and supporters. An investigation into the airline was held to avoid any future issues.
     Airline regulations allow their crews certain liberties when it comes to determining an unsafe situation on a flight. Even though some of the actions taken by crew members above can be considered inappropriate, it is perhaps best to avoid winding up in stressful situations likes these to begin with. Here are some tips that might benefit you and your child to ensure a safe, enjoyable flight:

• Carry enough entertainment for your child to keep them occupied. Bringing new toys and activities with you can further distract them from the lengthiness of being stuck in a seat for long periods of time.
• Have your children use the bathroom right before you board a flight. It’s more convenient for them to use a large, spacious bathroom than a small, cramped one.
• Carry baby wipes with you for any accidents or messes that may occur. Make sure you keep them within reach.
• Carry a good number and variety of snacks and drinks for your child. Airline snacks are limited and can be costly.
• For babies, it is best to feed them (bottle or breast) during take-off and landing so they do not experience the uncomfortable sensation of ear pressure. For older children, earplugs or cotton balls can help soothe this issue.
• Know where the baby changing table is located on your flight before you take-off. You don’t want to be running up and down the aisle in a diaper emergency.
• Carry a change of clothes for you and your child in the event of a messy situation.

Anthony Ripo, Mommy & Me Correspondent