Profile:
mypbkid

This is mypbkid's Profile page. Use it to view mypbkid's comments, other users' replies to these comments, and comments mypbkid has endorsed.

What's Happening Now

June 3, 2010 1:57 am

I have a young son who is beyond Class 6 (highest class)for peanuts/tree nuts. For him, it simply is not a matter of “passing up” on a snack. Anaphylaxis can happen much more readily for him by the transfer of oils (peanut oils on airline tray tables, arm rests). It can also happen by airborne dust. In a flight where peanuts are being served and all 100+ bags go POOF at the same time they are opened – well, let’s just say it would be a mother’s nightmare. Especialy with recycled cabin air. Even without a peanut allergy, peanuts are just such a choking hazard for any small children. Why serve them? There are plenty of reasonable alternatives. I recall when my son was first diagnosed, 1 week prior to Christmas. Our pediatrician called us at all of our nighttime… more »

…emergency numbers just to ensure we wouldn’t step onto any holiday airline flights without an epi-pen and proper documentation of his condition. I was FLOORED to f sind out that Delta still served peanuts. Really?? Peanut allergy is unlike some other food allergies in that there are multiple ways to have reaction (ingestion, touching, breathing). My suggestion would be to ban peanut products on all airlines. But that still does not/will not control what snacks others bring on. So I would suggest they still offer peanut free buffer zones and have some method of ensuring passengers in those rows are aware of what that means (don’t bring or open peanut snacks). I also think that pre-boarding should be an option, so that peanut families can go and wipe down the tray tables/arm rests themselves and feel comfortable with the environment in which their child will be sitting. I’ve been on one too many flights were peanuts have been banned simply due to an allergic person flying…and I feel SO MUCH sympathy for those families, because the airline staff does not seem to be good at respecting their privacy. In fact, they almost act begruding or point out the poor child to other. What kid wants to be labeled? In all honesty, I can’t see making the switch to peanut free snacks to be that big an impact to the airlines. As long as items are clearly labeled (most, not all pretzels) are o.k. If nothing else, I am so very appreciative that this issue is gaining attention. I don’t think airlines realize how many passengers don’t fly them due to their poor policies. In fact, I learned so much already today reading these message boards. I will make it a point to frequent the airlines (that serve my area) where people seem to have had really positive and supportive environments when flying with their children. Great info for me to have as a parent. I also wonder if you couldn’t look into how the major sports arenas handle peanut allergies. Most will offer at least one “peanut free” day so that children can enjoy major league sports like baseball etc. So it can be done. And they have WAY more people in one arena than on a single flight. Thanks again for allowing us to share our thoughts!! « less
June 3, 2010 2:06 am

Link for what I could find regarding how major sports arenas handle peanut allergies: http://www.sportsdestinations.com/ID-63-articleDetails.aspx

June 3, 2010 2:06 am

Link for what I could find regarding how major sports arenas handle peanut allergies: http://www.sportsdestinations.com/ID-63-articleDetails.aspx

June 3, 2010 2:17 am

Welcome to Regulation Room and thanks for your comment!
The sports arena information may be useful to other contributors as they continue to comment.
Given the concerns expressed regarding singling out allergic passengers, does anyone have a suggestion for the best way to inform passengers of the need to refrain from peanut consumption?
Should this be a part of the rule? Should it be up to the airlines? Should there be announcements to passengers? Should this be part of the rule?
Thoughts?

June 12, 2010 3:55 am

You articulated that very, very well. Welcome to my world as a severe peanut allergy sufferer and airline Captain. I have been dealing with this for over 22 years! I am yearning for the day (to return for the airline I work for as they had discontinued serving them for a few years only to declare the substitute, almonds, was too expensive and brought back peanuts) that I do not have to tell, an incredulous, flight attendant that I need a peanut free zone if I have to travel in the cabin!


No comments