- READ the airline’s allergy policy. Many airlines post their policy on their website. Then speak to the airline customer service desk about their policy for food allergic passengers so you fully understand what you need to travel and what they expect of you (e.g., your own medication, a doctor’s letter etc.).
- If peanut or tree nut allergic, CHOOSE an airline that does not sell or serve complimentary peanut/nut snacks with the beverage service if possible. This will decrease the risk of exposure to peanuts/nuts during the flight. Please note, you should not ask an airline to guarantee you a ‘peanut-free or nut free flight’ flight. No airline will ever give you such a guarantee.
- PICK your time of travel, airplanes are usually cleaned overnight, lowering the chance of contaminated surfaces. If nut allergic flying first thing in the morning is probably a good idea but if egg and milk allergic a flight outside of breakfast hours may be a more suitable option.
- NOTIFY the reservation agent of your food allergy, and ask if your information can be forwarded to the flight crew.
- ARRANGE for a letter from your doctor confirming your food allergy and indicating you need to carry your medication and food/drinks with you. Some countries have a Travel Plan for this purpose.
- ENSURE your adrenaline/epinephrine is in its original packaging and is labelled by your pharmacy with your name. Have your emergency response plan with your medication and easily accessible at all times. Carry at least two auto injectors when travelling, especially when flying.
- A child with food allergy should never travel unaccompanied by an adult who can assume their care.