TravelChair is a unique chair that provides firm, postural support enabling disabled children to fly on commercial aircraft.
Challenges faced by disabled children on aircraft
Of the 400,000 disabled children under 16 in the UK, few have been able to enjoy air travel due to the perceived limited options for additional support in the chair when travelling on aircraft. Parents with young disabled children may believe their needs cannot be met and do not consider taking a trip by air.
What is the TravelChair?
The TravelChair is a unique chair that fits into a standard airline seat giving firm, postural support for disabled children whilst they travel by air. It is suitable for disabled children from 3 – 11 years (depending on their size and weight – max. weight is 35kg).
The adjustable headrest, footrest and body harness provide various levels of postural support which can allow even severely disabled children the option to fly. The TravelChair is an upright seat; if your child requires tilt in space or recline please see the options available on the Tryb4ufly website or speak to a member of the Tryb4ufly team at QEF Mobility Services on 0208 770 1151.
What makes the TravelChair different?
The TravelChair is made from strong, durable materials and has been developed with the parents of disabled children, airlines and the UK Civil Aviation Authority to ensure everyone’s needs are met. It is now approved by EASA.
It can be placed in a standard airline seat so you can sit with your child during the flight. It is quick to install, has familiar supportive features and fits into the overhead locker when not in use.
How can the TravelChair be accessed?
MERU is part of the Queen Elizabeth’s Foundation (QEF) who offer a hire service for Travelchair and other seating support options for use on aircraft. For further details of this service and to hire equipment please click here to go to the Tryb4uFly website or call QEF Mobility Services on 020 8770 1151.
Alternatively the Travelchair is available to buy from MERU in our online shop. Follow this link for information about buying a Travelchair.
Do you have a question about flying with a disability?
QEF’s Accessible Aviation team support people of all ages who require additional help to travel by air. Across the UK we offer Tryb4uFly cabin assessments, run events and give free information to showcase practical steps that can improve flight experiences. Follow this link to find out more about QEF Accessible Aviation services.
A training video for the Travelchair is available here:
