I have dealt with this same issue recently on American Airlines. I had booked my business trip through British Airways, which is pretty good at accommodating for nut allergies, but they booked an American flight operated by British Airways for my trip home. There was a nut allergy statement on my ticket as well, and yet, when I boarded and spoke to the stewardess about my purser, they could not accommodate. I was treated very poorly by the purser on duty, who kept telling me that they could not allow the other passengers in business to "suffer" because I can't be around the mixed nuts. I asked her if she would like me to suffer an attack, cause the plane to divert, and risk death in order to get home. She got the supervisor on board who was very sweet and tried to help me find another flight, but it was near impossible for them to find another American flight that would be willing to accommodate. I ended up in the back of economy, where I couldn't eat any of the food, but at least they didn't serve nuts. I was given the excuse that you can never really be 100% sure another passenger doesn't open something with nuts, ignoring even an announcement on board, but if that was equivalent, I would never leave the house. There's a calculated risk, and there is a clear difference between one person choosing to disobey the announcement and the staff of an airline that is supposed to take care of their customers deciding to serve nuts to every person sitting around me.
1
@Melinda Wong Good lord, they actually decided that denying business class passengers peanuts was making them "suffer?" But stuffing coach passengers into increasingly narrower pitch seats with fewer and fewer frills isn't making them "suffer?" I don't have a nut allergy, but I'd never consider not eating nuts on a flight "suffering", especially with the free drinks in business class. With nut allergies being so common, why don't airlines just give up on offering them, and solely give out non-nut snacks like pretzels, dry roasted edamame, crunchy chickpeas, etc?
What about animal allergies? My wife went into respiratory distress on a long international flight recently due to a 60 lb. German shepherd in the aisle in front of us. It was supposedly a "service" dog but did not have a vest or other indication of "service." Of course, passengers had to step over this dog in the aisle and flight attendants had to ask the owner to move the dog so they could push the carts up and down the aisles. Unbeliveable!
1
by law they have to allow these animals on board and can't require much more in most cases then a passengers credible assurance. Basically unless they have reason to disbelieve the passenger they have allow on board. However the animal can't impead the aisle or other passengers. Basically the animal must fit underneath the seat in front or underneath the passengers legs.
They're currently working on revising the rules because of how badly they're being abused.
They're currently working on revising the rules because of how badly they're being abused.
It would appear that our victim culture had come full circle. We as a society have created this "liability" atmosphere, blaming and policing everyone else for our personal situation under the guise of "safety & common sense". We confuse rights for responsibilities, scream from the rooftops and jump on bandwagons.... and then act indignant and offended when airlines refuse service because they cannot 100% remove all risk and do not want a lawsuit? Flying is not a human right. The airline is providing a service. It is their right to refuse service if they deem that they cannot guarantee a passenger's safety. It is not your place to argue that your opinion and logic are better or "more advanced" than theirs. There are other modes of travel, however inconvenient they may be for you, so receiving the service of flying travel is not a personal right but a choice. This family has just experienced the effect of clash of the special interests (legalities). Now how do we decide who's special interest trumps whom? Do we refuse the PTSD vet who needs their issued support animal on a flight because another person has an allergy, etc? Who's rights trump who's? Interesting turn of events.....
2
@LMRC good grief, it's not a matter of "victim culture", it's a matter of pragmatism. Peanut allergies are pretty common, serve something instead of peanuts , and neither passengers nor airlines will be put in this quandry. And no, I do not have a peanut allergy, but I wouldn't miss them if airlines stopped serving them. There are so many other inexpensive, shelf-stable snacks that airlines could serve instead.
Although I'm not allergic to nuts, I've NEVER understood why the airlines haven't simply stopped serving this problematic munchie on their flights. There are so many better alternatives like crackers, grapes, cookies, or carrot sticks! The carriers' pig-headedness on this issue is just another example of how they, as an industry, have chosen to race to the bottom with incredibly poor customer service instead of embracing a simple, clean solution. And it's the reason why I have not taken a flight in 10 years and will not fly again until they clean up their act.
4
I think likely it's to do with lawsuits. If they knowingly let them on they risk being legally responsible, and they can't make the risk zero.
By law they have to let them on board. The ACA (the airline version of the ADA) requires they do so. There's no liability thus if a passenger with an allergy goes into shock. There's cost involved in diverting the plane, and passenger can be asked to cover those (or for most the passengers insurance) . However they can't refuse to let them fly anymore then they could someone in a wheelchair.
Why is the child with the severe but allergy wiping down seats and trays herself? That seems more hazardous than sitting there and not disturbing things. There are cloth seats on many airlines, and if pleather, there are plenty of seams with countless nuts and other allergens ground in. If the allergy is so severe then there is no way the airline could ever make the environment safe. If it is not, in fact, so severe, then bring your Eli pen and Benadryl if you choose to take the risk.
2
Originally, stewardesses were registered nurses to be able to deal with emergency situations triggered by the new method of travel. I can't say when this policy ceased, but it most likely was soon after the end of WW II. I didn't fly before the 1960's. The nurses probably had aged out of air travel crews by then.
Sounds like it may be time to stay home or find a different means of transportation. It's not the responsibility of everyone else to live by one person's self-focused requests.
6
Self-focused? Do you feel that way about handicapped access too?
5
It must be so nice for American Airlines to have such an abundance of business that they can afford to offend a multitude of fliers with their lousy attitude. It's not the first time I've heard tell of AA's disgraceful treatment of children on flights in particular. Lufthansa: ditto. I never choose American Airlines when I travel because of the way they've treated friends of mine with young children; this article just affirms my decision. Bravo Delta for being so down to earth about a simple need for a little consideration.
6
I'm quite surprised and saddened to see so many comments that lack any empathy for those with such allergies (no, I have no allergies.) Are those small packets of peanuts on a flight life and death for you? Is it such a burden to go without them? In the article it was shown that some airlines have cookies and pretzels on hand as an alternative to serve to passengers if someone(s) with a bad nut allergy is on board.
I'm sure you are the same people who blame an overweight passenger sitting next to you rather than the airlines for turning passenger class into what I like to call "steerage class."
If smoking was still legal on flights and you were a smoker and there were people seated around you who had asthma would you also believe it was your inalienable right to puff away?
I've flown next to overweight people who take up part of my seat. I handle it and I don't make a peep and I don't glare, I give them a smile. If I was asked to not eat nuts on a flight b/c I was near a person with a bad nut allergy or even if there was one on the flight, I'd handle it (as some other commentator said people with nut allergies should do -- while they have zero control of having such an allergy -- put on your darn "big girl/big boy" pants and deal with it.
Honestly!
I'm sure you are the same people who blame an overweight passenger sitting next to you rather than the airlines for turning passenger class into what I like to call "steerage class."
If smoking was still legal on flights and you were a smoker and there were people seated around you who had asthma would you also believe it was your inalienable right to puff away?
I've flown next to overweight people who take up part of my seat. I handle it and I don't make a peep and I don't glare, I give them a smile. If I was asked to not eat nuts on a flight b/c I was near a person with a bad nut allergy or even if there was one on the flight, I'd handle it (as some other commentator said people with nut allergies should do -- while they have zero control of having such an allergy -- put on your darn "big girl/big boy" pants and deal with it.
Honestly!
13
Has anyone done any research on why there are so many peanut allergies these days? When I was growing up I never heard of anyone with a peanut allergy. With so many people claiming to be allergic to this, that and the other thing and being so easily offended that we need "safe rooms" in colleges, I can't help but look with a jaded eye at people who claim allergies and being offended by inconsequential things. We seem to have become a nation of neurotics.
1
Carole, I don't of course know how old you are but I am 65. My severe allergy to nuts & peanuts was discovered when I was 18 months old. I don't "claim" this allergy, I'm stuck with it. Its not "inconsequential" At 16 I received the last rites for a reaction.
Your self-absorbed pout over spending a few hours without a 1 oz packet of snacks & your callous disregard for others are the stuff of nightmares for people with this allergy.
You are the person my mother told me to never, ever believe. I had to refuse to accept your birthday party food or your school fundraiser goodies even if you assured me (with your most condescending June Cleaver smile) that yours had no nuts or peanuts. You would never cross contaminate or not sanitize a bowl or tray. You would NEVER be in so much of a hurry to get your bake sale cookies done that you'd double dip a spoon or spatula in your kitchen. Your BBQs & dinner parties are the ones I never attend. My safety could never override an opportunity to offer our other friends your killer roasted brussel sprouts with walnuts.
Your thinking is flawed & it is dangerous.
FYI for some folks who assume EpiPen is a cure-all to stop the allergic reaction: Not always. Some of us may suffer a second wave of severe symptoms after the initial attack appears over. And that means AFTER EpiPen. It ain't always "one & done" for us.
Your self-absorbed pout over spending a few hours without a 1 oz packet of snacks & your callous disregard for others are the stuff of nightmares for people with this allergy.
You are the person my mother told me to never, ever believe. I had to refuse to accept your birthday party food or your school fundraiser goodies even if you assured me (with your most condescending June Cleaver smile) that yours had no nuts or peanuts. You would never cross contaminate or not sanitize a bowl or tray. You would NEVER be in so much of a hurry to get your bake sale cookies done that you'd double dip a spoon or spatula in your kitchen. Your BBQs & dinner parties are the ones I never attend. My safety could never override an opportunity to offer our other friends your killer roasted brussel sprouts with walnuts.
Your thinking is flawed & it is dangerous.
FYI for some folks who assume EpiPen is a cure-all to stop the allergic reaction: Not always. Some of us may suffer a second wave of severe symptoms after the initial attack appears over. And that means AFTER EpiPen. It ain't always "one & done" for us.
4
“This is about being allowed to fly like everybody else in the United States,” said Ms. Vargas, the lawyer representing the families.
Okay, then fly like everyone else, and take care of your own health problems. It is not any other passenger's responsibility, nor the pilots or crews, to make sure you or your family does not suffer an allergy attack. Put on your big girl or boy pants, and take care of yourselves "like everybody else in the United States" does when they fly.
Okay, then fly like everyone else, and take care of your own health problems. It is not any other passenger's responsibility, nor the pilots or crews, to make sure you or your family does not suffer an allergy attack. Put on your big girl or boy pants, and take care of yourselves "like everybody else in the United States" does when they fly.
8
It seems as though part of the reason for the clashes is the other passengers, as well as the airline staff, feeling put upon as they're all trying to accomplish the already-tedious task of getting everyone onboard /stored/seated. It would helpful to all for the allergic passengers to alert the airline ahead of time, the way one does if requesting special dietary considerations. That way, the airline can make whatever necessary preparations ahead of time. And the flight attendants and other passengers won't have to deal with any added stress while boarding. Consideration goes both ways.
3
Nuts? Got it. A real issue. And what about pets on planes? And assistance animals, as well? I have a justified aversion to dogs, having been attacked by a dog when I was a kid. I have done hard work to pretty much get over it. But dealing with dogs in small spaces, like planes, is a huge issue for me. How do I possibly deal with that? Airlines don't have "animal free" flights. Not yet. And dog owners invariably open the crates and let their precious little babies out when we are at 30,000 feet. Not cool. Not good. Owners don't want their animals put in the luggage bay, those who need assistance animals insist they need them in the passenger area during the flight, and there are those of us who really do not want to fly along with Fido for 4 hours, no matter how useful the pup may be.
6
I feel for you as my son was incredibly afraid of dogs for quite a while due to a bad incident with a neighbor's dog. I would definitely call ahead to find out if a dog would be on board, and then ask for accommodations such as seating in a different section of the plane and early or delayed boarding depending on what area the dog would be in, so you won't run into each other.
The issue with ESA are that the airlines are required to allow them on board. Just like airlines are required to make accommodations for those with disabilities, including peanut allergies.
Airlines are privately owned corporations in the business of public transport and follow safety procedures in accord with F.A.A. regulations. Anything they do beyond the minimums set by the F.A.A. is totally up to said corporation. Don't like a particular airlines' policies? Take another and leave the vast majority of us non-allergies at peace to enjoy our 'tree nuts'. Sorry for your problem, but it's not mine.
2
@Lewsi Sternberg, the FAA require airlines to carry passengers with disabilities, AMR is descriminating against a class of disabilities. And one day this could be your or my problem.
2
Seems as if it would not be a burden for the rest of the airlines to be as accommodating as Southwest, Delta and Jet Blue are described as being. We are all human, right?
2
It's amazing when someone shows a little kindness. We can all live without our packets of peanuts for the safety of a child in flight.
As long as parents have medicines, what's the problem?
As long as parents have medicines, what's the problem?
4
Sound slike self indulgent parents and kids. Drive if you don't like the airline choice of snack.
4
Pat, as a parent similar to those in this article, I bear no self-indulgence because it is not about me. It is life or death for my daughter and she is the most important person in my life.
4
Are you kidding Pat? People don't ask to have life-threatening allergies; they are simply unavoidable to some. I guess a person who is physically disabled should never be accommodated on a plane, either then, huh? Just doesn't have the right to travel? Hey as long as it is not YOUR problem, it's all good. Life must have been good to you. You are self-righteous. Get off your high horse. Let's hope karma doesn't come your way lest you ever need an accommodation or help of any sort at any point in your future. Please.
3
I admit I'm not a doctor, or a sufferer of a peanut allergy. BUT, I have an allergy to shellfish. You know what I do about it whenever I go out in the public to travel, eat, whatever? I don't eat shellfish. I don't ask for special concessions. The nuts are in packages that the flight attendant passes out, you CAN refuse them. I understand the plight of the Airline, people are far to "sue happy", they were covering their butts. It's happened before, the airline was simply protecting themselves. Why did the family feel they had to tell the airline at all? They could eat their food, refuse the bagged nuts and move on.
3
Unfortunately it is not that easy. Peanut Allergies tend to be airborne. My child can not even be close to someone else eating peanuts without risking an allergic reaction- that's why this type of allergy is so dangerous. You really rely on the cooperation and the understanding of people surrounding you. I always have to ask the airline to please not serve nuts and the people sitting around us to please not eat the ones they might have brought with them. It never even occured to me that we might not be allowed to board a plane due to this... we never ever encountered a problem, airlines and fellow passengers have always been extremely understanding and supportive! If we could all manage to show a bit more empathie and consideration for each other life could be so much easier...
2
Clearly you don't understand that your allergy is not my allergy or another person's allergy. Like you, I can just eat something else and be fine. My son cannot touch something with sunflower, other seed products, or pistachio, but he is perfectly fine with someone seated right next to him doing so. A work colleague of mine, on the other hand, has an allergic reaction wherr when other people open a package of peanuts and eat it, the dust gets in the air and she breathes it in. People seated near someone with this level of allergy can be a kind human being and either a) not eat peanuts for the duration of the flight, or b) ask to be seated somewhere that would not pose a threat for the allergic passenger. You of all people should have compassion and understanding for others with food allergies.
2
The issue with peanuts is that the oil is what causes the reaction. Thus unlike shellfish where one must digest it for a reaction, simply touching the oil left behind can cause a really bad reaction.
FYI, did you know there's a reason you don't ever see unshelled/unprocessed cashews? The oil on the cashew is deadly to humans (not just some, all) and thus they must be processed to remove all traces of cashew oil. This just goes to show that nuts have some real issues.
FYI, did you know there's a reason you don't ever see unshelled/unprocessed cashews? The oil on the cashew is deadly to humans (not just some, all) and thus they must be processed to remove all traces of cashew oil. This just goes to show that nuts have some real issues.
1
What's more important your child's health or vacationing in Caribbean islands?
3
How often do airline passengers sit in their own homes eating a bag of nuts? It's not an everyday activity for most, so surely all airlines can just change their snack selection to eliminate this problem and request that fellow passengers refrain from eating their own nuts for the duration of a flight.
I'm allergic to pet hair and dander and recently had to take a flight from New York to Florida with five dogs on board. Luckily I had extra antihistamine tablets with me, but I do not expect to arrive for a flight to discover I'm boarding a mobile zoo. The whole "emotional support pet" thing has gotten severely out of hand. It's just a way for people to dodge paying for their pet's carriage and preboard flights early. But then people are just more self-centered generally. Turn on any world news bulletin and that's made amply clear.
I'm allergic to pet hair and dander and recently had to take a flight from New York to Florida with five dogs on board. Luckily I had extra antihistamine tablets with me, but I do not expect to arrive for a flight to discover I'm boarding a mobile zoo. The whole "emotional support pet" thing has gotten severely out of hand. It's just a way for people to dodge paying for their pet's carriage and preboard flights early. But then people are just more self-centered generally. Turn on any world news bulletin and that's made amply clear.
6
I eat nuts at home all the time. You'll find bags of pistachios, peanuts and cashews galore-all wonderful snacks with wine, beer or a cup of tea. Similaryl in my home you'll never find those pretzels that seem to have invaded the airline that did away with nuts. However I suck up and deal with it when flying, without making snarky remarks about how easy it would be for people to "refrain from eating pretzels"
3
A question: if the peanut sensitivity is so strong why haven't there been deaths or severe attacks in years past when peanuts were given out on every flight? From 1989 to present day, I have been a frequent flyer and cannot remember peanut allergy attacks happening on flights. Please someone knowledgeable explain.
14
Same thing here. I used to fly to and from the USA quite often, but never heard anything about people requesting a nut-free area. As to early boarding for pople with children so that they can wipe down seats and trays - considering how those seats look afterwards, I wonder what the whole fuss about cleanliness is.
1
1336 comments! This one hits a nerve.
And it's certainly taken a generally mean turn.
I recall a flight 15 or so years ago, when most passengers were looking forward to a lovely shrimp luncheon selection. (The old days of 'Midwest Express Airlines' and their amazing food service; now both/all gone.)
Tho it was post-9/11, and we no longer had real cutlery -- but still had china plates and cups, go figure -- just ahead of the food service it was announced that one passenger had a 'severe shellfish allergy,' and even opening the plated luncheon could set them off, so, no luncheon food for anyone.
Yes, it was a bummer. I was starved and really looking forward to that lunch.
The flight crew worked overtime baking lots and lots of additional chocolate chip cookies (yes, again, Midwest Express -- fresh-baked chocolate chip cookies on most flights).
And we all survived. No one was too grumpy or put out. Maybe it was the post-9/11 camaraderie. We were flying out of NY, and people were still kind to one another in the near-aftermath.
Somehow, today, I think it would get uglier. Life has changed.
And it's certainly taken a generally mean turn.
I recall a flight 15 or so years ago, when most passengers were looking forward to a lovely shrimp luncheon selection. (The old days of 'Midwest Express Airlines' and their amazing food service; now both/all gone.)
Tho it was post-9/11, and we no longer had real cutlery -- but still had china plates and cups, go figure -- just ahead of the food service it was announced that one passenger had a 'severe shellfish allergy,' and even opening the plated luncheon could set them off, so, no luncheon food for anyone.
Yes, it was a bummer. I was starved and really looking forward to that lunch.
The flight crew worked overtime baking lots and lots of additional chocolate chip cookies (yes, again, Midwest Express -- fresh-baked chocolate chip cookies on most flights).
And we all survived. No one was too grumpy or put out. Maybe it was the post-9/11 camaraderie. We were flying out of NY, and people were still kind to one another in the near-aftermath.
Somehow, today, I think it would get uglier. Life has changed.
5
I do not feel like that was the right decision for the pilot to determine that it would be best for the family not to travel. As long as the parent has the medicine it should be fine.
3
Is the complaint that airlines should ignore it when someone boards, says they have the possibility of a severe anaphylactic reaction in air that the airline knows it cannot absolutely prevent, and they should just let them fly, and possibly die under their watch? Good grief.
7
We can't reduce all risks to zero for 100% of the population. But come on, willfully passing peanuts out to every passenger on every flight creates a high risk and is completely unnecessary. Airlines are an intense peanut zone more so than any other public space except a nut factory. Many people need to fly in order to live and work. And peanut allergies are more deadly on average than any other allergy. Simply changing to a different snack than nuts would save lives and reduce the risk of flying to something comparable to the risk of other every day activities for many.
19
I understand the allergy thing but what's the big deal that airlines MUST serve nuts.
12
American Airlines, was as usual, wrong. These people erred on the side of caution in letting AA know about the issue. They should have kept quiet and not said a word to AA. Unless, of course, they're looking to file a lawsuit and obtain compensation for pain and suffering!
I am allergic to animal dander. I keep Benadryl handy in case someone has a seeing eye dog on my flight. It angers me, though, when I have to fly with someone who can't fly without their beloved Fido for emotional support! Put the animals in the hold where they belong!
I am allergic to animal dander. I keep Benadryl handy in case someone has a seeing eye dog on my flight. It angers me, though, when I have to fly with someone who can't fly without their beloved Fido for emotional support! Put the animals in the hold where they belong!
4
As usual, it's those who one might expect to be most sensitive who don't give a damn about others.
5
I'm allergic to cats, but as long as I can clean my hands after contact with them or a surface they have touched, I'm fine. I sure would not demand that those pets be banished to the hold as the noise and the ambience would terrify them. My own two canaries travel well, are not allergenic, and apart from some whistles, are great passengers.
1
IMTParty - Don't you realize that the person "who can't fly without their beloved Fido for emotional support has the same rights and privileges as those who would de-nut an entire plane for one passenger.
3
Please keep in mind that many people never outgrow food allergies. Mine have, in fact worsened. Airlines, not content with steerage seats that were tight against my pelvis when I weighed 90 pounds and "air" that is so dry it causes nosebleeds, simply refuse to stop serving peanuts (legumes) and tree nuts or to filter and humidify cabin air.
Since cabin air is dry, dust from peanuts and nuts becomes airborne and is inhaled by passengers throughout the plane. If you have no food allergies, you won't notice. If you are allergic to peanuts and/or nuts, you know immediately when a bag is opened. The classy folks who chew with their mouths open or talk with their mouths full make matters much worse. The cabin crew is often caught in the middle.
Airlines are legally bound to deny boarding to folks who are obviously intoxicated. A scan of YouTube videos shows flights returning to the gate, before takeoff, to have law enforcement remove drunk, abusive passengers. The folks who are sold too much alcohol on board often require emergency stops midflight when they get loud, obnoxious, and physically threatening. All these people should be charged under federal statutes for endangering the safety of passengers and crew in the air. Again, the cabin crew bears the brunt of this.
If airlines can make a pitstop when they board drunks or help passengers become drunk, why is stopping for a passenger with a life-threatening allergy so horrible?
Since cabin air is dry, dust from peanuts and nuts becomes airborne and is inhaled by passengers throughout the plane. If you have no food allergies, you won't notice. If you are allergic to peanuts and/or nuts, you know immediately when a bag is opened. The classy folks who chew with their mouths open or talk with their mouths full make matters much worse. The cabin crew is often caught in the middle.
Airlines are legally bound to deny boarding to folks who are obviously intoxicated. A scan of YouTube videos shows flights returning to the gate, before takeoff, to have law enforcement remove drunk, abusive passengers. The folks who are sold too much alcohol on board often require emergency stops midflight when they get loud, obnoxious, and physically threatening. All these people should be charged under federal statutes for endangering the safety of passengers and crew in the air. Again, the cabin crew bears the brunt of this.
If airlines can make a pitstop when they board drunks or help passengers become drunk, why is stopping for a passenger with a life-threatening allergy so horrible?
5
I've never really liked peanuts or pretzels on a plane anyways; I'm usually already dehydrated as it is.
2
Peanuts aren't nuts, they are legumes growing underground versus nuts which grow in trees. I have sever allergies to certain nuts - pecans, walnuts, almonds - but avoid them and have never struggled aloft, at sea or anywhere else and I'm armed with my trustee Epipen. Repeating the obvious: peanuts aren't nuts. American Airlines overreacted. It is up to the individual to ensure their own care... the airline can't be expected to carry insulin for diabetic passengers.
2
The airline wasn't being asked to carry insulin. But, in fact, it is required to have a suitably equipped first aid kit on board. And I would submit that an Epipen is part of such a kit.
The issue has nothing to do with tree nuts vs. legumes. The issue is, must a common carrier comply with the Common Law and with the Americans with Disabilities Act? I submit that the airlines' choice is to comply or shut down. Phrased that way, probably an easy choice.
The issue has nothing to do with tree nuts vs. legumes. The issue is, must a common carrier comply with the Common Law and with the Americans with Disabilities Act? I submit that the airlines' choice is to comply or shut down. Phrased that way, probably an easy choice.
5
Thank you for making that clarification. I too am allergic to tree nuts. Peanuts are legumes and I have no problem with them. I have learned that I have to make that distinction often.
Eugene - "The issue is, must a common carrier comply with the Common Law and with the Americans with Disabilities Act?"
What exactly does an airline have to do in that case to comply? Does everyone aboard the flight have to give up their little bag of peanuts? Does the interior of the plane have to be certified nut-free? Does everyone aboard have to comply as well?
Do we arrest the 4 year old child who has a pp&j sandwich in his pocket and takes it out to eat during the flight? Lastly who do the parents sue if that boy takes out his pp&j?
What exactly does an airline have to do in that case to comply? Does everyone aboard the flight have to give up their little bag of peanuts? Does the interior of the plane have to be certified nut-free? Does everyone aboard have to comply as well?
Do we arrest the 4 year old child who has a pp&j sandwich in his pocket and takes it out to eat during the flight? Lastly who do the parents sue if that boy takes out his pp&j?
1
Why is it surprising that an airline would refuse to serve a person who had just announced, "I present a high risk for an inflight emergency?" Seriously, folks, Turks and Cacois is the bomb, but no one needs to visit there. This isn't about hostile air travelers refusing to give up their peanuts, it's about asking people who reportedly have LIFE THREATENING health conditions to arrange their own lives to accommodate their circumstances, rather than asking the rest of us to arrange ours. Maybe these folks need to be wearing masks and gloves and long-sleeves, too. How is it even possible that your child breathing recycled cabin air in 24F going to DIE if my kid eats a peanut butter sandwich in 14B, when on the previous flight, the child in 21A threw 9 Planter's peanuts at her brother in 21B until separated and moved next to dad in 21D where she proceeded to wipe her hands all over the headrest? It just doesn't make any sense: it's the same recycled air. And what about every other allergen - shellfish and cat dander and perfume and soy and every other thing? Do we ban everything? Who enforces all this?
21
The question is, may a person who has an allergy take reasonable precautions and fly knowing the risks, or may an airline arbitrarily deny boarding? May an airline deny boarding to a person who announces that s/he expects compliance with the law? May bordering be denied to a person who asks for the aircraft's tail number (license plate)? What about a person who . . ..
Historically, pilots-in-command (the "captain") have been allowed great discretion to deny boarding for "safety" considerations. But, in fact, most denial of boarding decisions have less to do with safety and more to do with plain old (unlawful) prejudice!
It's time to require airlines to comply with common carrier regulations that go back centuries under English Common Law.
Historically, pilots-in-command (the "captain") have been allowed great discretion to deny boarding for "safety" considerations. But, in fact, most denial of boarding decisions have less to do with safety and more to do with plain old (unlawful) prejudice!
It's time to require airlines to comply with common carrier regulations that go back centuries under English Common Law.
4
I am very sensitive to perfumes, and some deodorants immediately give me a sore throat. But some people smell as though they had bathed in the stuff. Seat exchanges in-flight are an viable option and have worked for me. But it seems that people are going totally overboard with their demands for accomodation of their problems, and thus tyrannize the majority. Sorry, but I cannot sympathize with them in the least.
6
I am greatly concerned that this is only being seen as a nut allergy issue. People have many other anaphylactic allergies that are equally as dangerous as nuts. My two kids are anaphylactic to dairy. All the commercial airlines have peanut allergy policies in place, but nothing for other allergies including tree nuts. JetBlue, which is being touted as the best for food allergies, states clearly on their web site that “ warmed tree nuts will still be available for sale.” I guess as long as it's not peanuts, it's okay.
In the US, we have 8 top allergies that are responsible for for 90% of allergic reactions. . We must realize we need policy and procedures that protect and are fair . Just this week a story came out of the UK about a man having anaphylaxis on a flight due to his tomato allergy. All people with food allergies should be able to wipe down the seats if they feel they need to, but we also need to educate people that ANY food can be dangerous.
I say no to bans, one person's allergy is another person's safe food. Think about that child with a dairy and egg allergy, who is drinking almond milk and can’t eat many items-- are you going to limit them further? Bans are not enforceable and not the answer.
15 million Americans have food allergies, and of those, 3.5 million people have nut allergies. That’s a lot of people that are not being represented in this coverage Anaphylaxis is anaphylaxis, All allergies matter!
In the US, we have 8 top allergies that are responsible for for 90% of allergic reactions. . We must realize we need policy and procedures that protect and are fair . Just this week a story came out of the UK about a man having anaphylaxis on a flight due to his tomato allergy. All people with food allergies should be able to wipe down the seats if they feel they need to, but we also need to educate people that ANY food can be dangerous.
I say no to bans, one person's allergy is another person's safe food. Think about that child with a dairy and egg allergy, who is drinking almond milk and can’t eat many items-- are you going to limit them further? Bans are not enforceable and not the answer.
15 million Americans have food allergies, and of those, 3.5 million people have nut allergies. That’s a lot of people that are not being represented in this coverage Anaphylaxis is anaphylaxis, All allergies matter!
9
Then the anaphylactics should stay off planes. I'm no mathemetician but 200 passengers x 8 possible deadly allergies -- the number of permutations are mindboggling.
you know, due to physical limitations - height, eyesight, strength, sex, etc. -- I'll never be an NBA center, a neursurgeon, a jockey, a snorkler, an alpine skier and many other things. I wouldn't dream of agitating and invoking victim status to force people in those arenas to accept me. Sometimes you have to play the hands you are dealth instead of pointing the finger at innocent bystanders.
you know, due to physical limitations - height, eyesight, strength, sex, etc. -- I'll never be an NBA center, a neursurgeon, a jockey, a snorkler, an alpine skier and many other things. I wouldn't dream of agitating and invoking victim status to force people in those arenas to accept me. Sometimes you have to play the hands you are dealth instead of pointing the finger at innocent bystanders.
17
Simple solution. Sue under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Clear violation.
5
“This is about being allowed to fly like everybody else in the United States,” said Ms. Vargas, the lawyer representing the families.
Um, no, it's about getting special treatment. Pre-boarding. Why do they tell the attendant about nut allergies? If the danger is that extreme, they should not be on a plane that has peanuts on it.
Um, no, it's about getting special treatment. Pre-boarding. Why do they tell the attendant about nut allergies? If the danger is that extreme, they should not be on a plane that has peanuts on it.
13
Exactly. If they really want to fly like everyone else, do what the rest of us do: Line up quietly, lie low, try to be unobtrusive and don't make extra trouble for the ground crew or flight attendants.
11
Since the vast majority of medical emergencies in flight are cardiovascular, it would appear more prudent to deny boarding to anyone with high cholesterol. Or high blood pressure. Or maybe anyone with diabetes. Or how about men over 45 who are overweight, or those with a family history of heart disease? Why not ban all current and former smokers? Better yet, let's deny boarding to anyone over 65, since statistically their chance of an en route medical emergency is far greater than that of the passenger with a nut allergy. As a physician, I've had to administer emergent care to passengers with cardiac conditions on more than one occasion. The self absorbed pettiness of those who would discriminate against those with food allergies is appalling, and American Airlines needs to enter the 21st century and educate its staff.
10
Absurd, Aris.
The people with big guts or high cholesteral aren't asking for special treatment nor are they asking the airline to make the plane safe for them. That's the issue here. Special snowflakehood vs. the rest of us.
The people with big guts or high cholesteral aren't asking for special treatment nor are they asking the airline to make the plane safe for them. That's the issue here. Special snowflakehood vs. the rest of us.
6
@KosherDill, if you read the article, it states that the pilot refused boarding due to the risk of needing to make an emergency medical landing, not because they were requesting special treatment nor asking to make the plane safe for them. Since statistically, the chances of needing to make an emergency landing is FAR greater for cardiac issues, @Aris makes sense -- if the real issue is risk of needing to make an emergency landing, then those at high risk of cardiac failure should be denied boarding as well.
3
Then why did Dr. Bloom make an issue of this if not to receive special treatment?
2
I wonder how the people making fun of children with allergies or their parents who are trying to protect them voted in the last election.
6
I voted for her and I still think this is nonsense. Drive if you are that sick and guess what most gas stations have stores attached that carry peanuts. You can't be fully protected from every possible occurrence but you can be decent and not expect special treatment. Stop this liberal madness. Bill Maher should take this up one Friday night.
5
Stephanie - "I wonder how the people making fun of children with allergies or their parents who..."
I wonder who a person voted for who cannot understand that no one is "MAKING FUN" of the children with allergies or their parents who are trying to protect them? If a parent wants to protect a child from an environment that can kill them, don't take the child on a sealed tube where the same air is circulated for hours at a time. Or don't expect the world to bend to your personal problem.
I wonder who a person voted for who finds politics in every situation?
I wonder who a person voted for who cannot understand that no one is "MAKING FUN" of the children with allergies or their parents who are trying to protect them? If a parent wants to protect a child from an environment that can kill them, don't take the child on a sealed tube where the same air is circulated for hours at a time. Or don't expect the world to bend to your personal problem.
I wonder who a person voted for who finds politics in every situation?
3
And that's the reason I fly Delta....simple courtesy. I've been wondering for years why other airlines continue to serve nuts - I mean, really?
4
I have severe animal allergies that trigger anaphylactic shock. I would love to find an airline that I could safely fly with. My son and his family live in Maine. I had to wait a year and a half to meet my grandson until they could plan to fly here.
Does anyone know if there is an airline that doesn't allow animals on flights? Recycled air on a flight that happens to be animal free, but allows animals on the plane on other flights would pose the same potential for a severe anaphlactic reaction.
Does anyone know if there is an airline that doesn't allow animals on flights? Recycled air on a flight that happens to be animal free, but allows animals on the plane on other flights would pose the same potential for a severe anaphlactic reaction.
3
All airlines must allow service animals on planes, or face suit under the Americans with Disabilities Act. You're out of luck. Why not drive or take the train or both?
My husband and I no longer want to fly due to varying reasons, including how airlines don't act to help those who genuinely need it. Our issues aren't allergy-based, but they're real all the same. So we made sure to have a nice vehicle that is good for roadtripping in; our next one will be even better at that.
Though, as other people have wondered, why not change the default in-flight food to something else, like pretzels? I like pretzels just as much as I like salted peanuts, and these days any food served at all on an airline without ridiculous charges is a miracle in and of itself (another reason why we no longer fly). We can control our own environment, so we feel much better about travelling when we avoid flying.
My husband and I no longer want to fly due to varying reasons, including how airlines don't act to help those who genuinely need it. Our issues aren't allergy-based, but they're real all the same. So we made sure to have a nice vehicle that is good for roadtripping in; our next one will be even better at that.
Though, as other people have wondered, why not change the default in-flight food to something else, like pretzels? I like pretzels just as much as I like salted peanuts, and these days any food served at all on an airline without ridiculous charges is a miracle in and of itself (another reason why we no longer fly). We can control our own environment, so we feel much better about travelling when we avoid flying.
3
Don't disagree about driving instead, except when it takes 15 hours to drive the distance it takes 80 minutes to fly. And I need to share space with dogs and their dander? And almost without fail some owner will open the crate and let Fido out. Same with the cats on a flight. I don't want to fly with animals. Tough enough these days to fly with humans as we are all in close quarters, sitting on dirty seats, using filthy trays and germy magazines. Ack.
Would it be safer if airlines served the more costly cashews or almonds? Nut allergies are often limited to peanuts.
4
My grandsons are allergic to peanuts and walnuts, but not pecans right now for some reason. There's no telling what other nuts will set off a severe reaction. People should be informed of such policies before they book a trip. But really, would it be so hard to serve pretzels or chips instead? I will now avoid American as much as I can. Delta flies out of my area as do some other smaller airlines.
3
Peanuts are cheap. Almonds are expensive. Health concerns are overidden.
3
Peanuts are not, in fact, nuts. They are legumes, like beans, peas, and the like. Cashews, pecans, walnuts, and other nuts are in fact, nuts--sometimes called tree nuts or true nuts.
The allergies are separate and it is possible for someone to be able to tolerate nuts but not peanuts, or peanuts but not nuts. Many of us can tolerate neither; my allergies are such that I cannot tolerate any legumes.
Lately, I've read a lot of nonsense about allergies being caused by "sterile" homes for infants and toddlers. That was not how I grew up. (Get outside. Play in the dirt, in the creeks, wherever.) Some other genius proposed dosing very young children with peanut butter (and presumably nut pastes) to "prevent" allergies. I was fed peanut butter, peanuts, and nuts from the time I was tiny. For years, I thought everyone vomited shortly after getting into bed (and during the day as well). I was never told I had asthma; I had "stop that coughing or I'll give you something to cough about." On bad days, I only fill the top part of my lungs, but I've been doing that all my life. (I don't recommend this technique.)
I can guarantee that my allergies are violent and severe. I don't panic because I've lived my life with them, but I've had others panic for me. I calmly explain that if I can still speak, I'm still breathing. Yes, it's noisy and wheezy, but if the noise stops, that's when panic might be in order.
The allergies are separate and it is possible for someone to be able to tolerate nuts but not peanuts, or peanuts but not nuts. Many of us can tolerate neither; my allergies are such that I cannot tolerate any legumes.
Lately, I've read a lot of nonsense about allergies being caused by "sterile" homes for infants and toddlers. That was not how I grew up. (Get outside. Play in the dirt, in the creeks, wherever.) Some other genius proposed dosing very young children with peanut butter (and presumably nut pastes) to "prevent" allergies. I was fed peanut butter, peanuts, and nuts from the time I was tiny. For years, I thought everyone vomited shortly after getting into bed (and during the day as well). I was never told I had asthma; I had "stop that coughing or I'll give you something to cough about." On bad days, I only fill the top part of my lungs, but I've been doing that all my life. (I don't recommend this technique.)
I can guarantee that my allergies are violent and severe. I don't panic because I've lived my life with them, but I've had others panic for me. I calmly explain that if I can still speak, I'm still breathing. Yes, it's noisy and wheezy, but if the noise stops, that's when panic might be in order.
This isn't about those with peanut allergies trying to inconvenience you, it's about them wanting to stay alive and taking as many precautions as possible. Would you be comfortable being forced to play Russian roulette on the plane? That's the equivalent of a peanut allergy for those who do not have allergies. I'm not trying to be mellow dramatic, but the metaphor conveys the struggle for many effectively. When you open that bag of peanuts on the plane, in recycled air, you may as well be potentially shooting someone. When you open that bag of peanuts on the plane, realize that you're probably delaying your own travel plans because the plane will have to make an emergency landing for the disabled person suffocating to death amongst your fellow passengers. Airlines accommodate other disabilities, so I don't know why they can't accommodate this. And yes, it's a legal disability, look it up. Airlines would be sued mercilessly if they kicked someone off the plane for being wheelchair-bound.
11
What if a passenger opens a bag of nuts bought in the airport?
9
I am not allergic but Delta certainly earned a new client.
12
Nuts are one of my favorite food and they are a daily staple of my diet. You know what I've learned? It is VERY easy to go without nuts for 12 hours. Come on people.
21
The point is that peanuts were on the plane already, and that if it's a serious risk for their kids, they shouldn't be flying.
9
When are people going to be responsible for themselves. Do they really think that wiping down a seat is going to do anything to lessen the allergens. Not hardly. But it does make sure they have space above to stuff their bags before anyone else gets there. I've flown American a lot and cannot remember seeing a peanut served in years. It sounds like just more self centered attention grabbing demands.
17
The purpose is 2-fold: to get the overhead space first and, more importantly, to establish that the airline knew about the allergy and accepted liability when they let the family board.
8
With all due respect to the captain, the airlines' policies are based on lobbyist groups' pressure and then irregularly enforced. Two prepared and thoughtful physician parents who made step-by-step preparations should have a bit more weight. The whole commercial flying experience is out-of-control.
5
So don't fly.
The only reason the parents spoke up about the allergies was to lay groundwork for possible future lawsuits.
The only reason the parents spoke up about the allergies was to lay groundwork for possible future lawsuits.
5
In my airline, we also ask passengers around the one with the allergy not to eat or even open any packaging with nuts or foods containing nuts. We announce on PA that there is someone with an allergy and we won't serve nuts, and to please not eat anything with nuts on board. We dont have special preboarding for people with allergies. We, so far, have not disembarked any passengers for this reason. We are trained for these cases. However, we mostly fly around Europe, short and longer flights, but still, there are possibilities to land within a relatively short period of time. IF someone with a severe allergy travels over the ocean, there are no possibitities to land soon whatsoever. So I feel for them, but in part I understand why these particular people were disembarked. It is very risky and no company wants a dead person on board, because, even though we are trained, there is only that much we can do without proper medical systems and specialists in a tube of recicled air. Even though we take precautions, similar to when pets are transported and someone might have allergies, not all people are so cooperative among passengers, they might not know how much they are endangering others, and even though we say the proper words and explain rules to them, they might act differently and in turn do someone great harm. So this is a very risky situation, and very debatable!
7
Sorry, but here is best another example of the minority attempting to subjugate majority rights to their needs. Airlines often have a tough time providing passenger services and remaining profitable as it is. On long distance flights for which airlines still offer meals service, if pre-ordered they offer special meal options to meet most people's needs or preferences. On shorter distance or domestic flight this has mostly been replaced with snack food of different types either free or sold. What may be worth considering our nut-free flights but my guess is that the demand would be great enough to make it profitable for the airlines. We should always bare in mind that airlines operate mostly as private enterprise and are obliged to be profitable which obliges them to be attractive in order to fly as ear to capacity as possible. The same objections apply to small pets in the cabin, but here again most of the airlines permit this within certain limits and charge handsomely for the right to do so but there again there are passengers who, as long as they are not aware of pets on board, say or feel nothing but the moment when the plane is being seated, immediately and vociferously object to having pet carrying passenger near them. We have to draw the line somewhere and those with special needs that may conflict with those of others should consider alternative modes of transport, especially for domestic travel. Can you ever imagine a cruise ship or all-in resort forbidding peanuts?
12
" the demand would be great enough" is wrong. I meant to write "the demand would not be great enough". I guess the change will please some and disappoint others.
You're right: compassion comes at a price. I, for one, think it's worth it.
1
Airlines are reporting record profits already.
How can NOT serving a few bags of peanuts???
And if you truly do not grasp that a resort with 100s of rooms or a giant ship where passengers stay and eat in different rooms are the same as a cramped plane wherew everyone is in one space breathing same air. . . . Then you are pretty dense.
How can NOT serving a few bags of peanuts???
And if you truly do not grasp that a resort with 100s of rooms or a giant ship where passengers stay and eat in different rooms are the same as a cramped plane wherew everyone is in one space breathing same air. . . . Then you are pretty dense.
1
I can understand the airlines' reluctance to board passengers with life-threatening allergies as an in-flight incident is disruptive, costly and upsetting; however, I don't see why they wouldn't allow people with allergies to board first and wipe down their seating areas. Presumably, people with these allergies know what sensitivities trigger an attack and plan accordingly.
8
If airlines let someone pre-board to wipe things down, the person will say in a lawsuit that the airlines knew about their allergy, let them board anyway, and are now responsible for any problem that happens on or soon after the flight. They will say that by letting them pre-board to wipe down, the airline was accepting liability.
8
I've always suspected this issue has to do with liability. If airlines make anything resembling an "accommodation", they open themselves up to lawsuits. Even if every airline agreed to stop serving all nuts and legumes, that would not stop passengers from bringing and consuming their own. There is no way to guarantee an allergen-free plane.
6
Expecting a plane full of people to modify what they eat is...frankly...nutty.
21
There is no way a public carrier can cater to all sensibilities and eccentricities. If you have a nut allergy and fear contamination, drive your own car or charter your own plane. And to ask other passengers not to eat nuts because your daughter has an allergy, get real. Suppose a passenger has a wool allergy (I do), should you forbid other passengers not to wear cashmere? Or a milk products allergy, should your daughter not be allowed to drink a carton of milk or eat yogurt or a cheese snack because I'm also on the plane? Yegads.
14
You would probably be opposed to the ADA. Fortunately, it passed anyway.
2
If you wear wool, unless you disrobe in your seat and shake wool threads all over someone, the wool affects only you. If someone drinks milk, unless they pour it on someone's face or vomit enthusiastically, it doesn't affect others.
Peanuts and nuts tend to be packaged for airlines in small, sealed bags. When the bag is opened, the "dust," which is in fact finely ground peanut or nut meat, becomes airborne. Inhalation of allergens is one of the fastest ways to induce an allergic reaction. The allergen goes from the nose and lungs directly into the bloodstream. (This works with drugs too. That's why cocaine and other drugs are snorted.)
We don't ask that people never again eat nuts or peanuts. We ask only that they control themselves while we're in a plane together. If you're so selfish that you can't survive without a snack for a couple of hours, your parents did a remarkably poor job of raising you.
We all share this planet. Try to think of someone other than yourself, if only while you fly.
I realize that many people don't believe food allergies are real and think that if we don't know the allergen is included in what we're served, we won't react. That's not just wrong, it's attempted, sometimes successful, murder. (Don't try it. It shows on autopsy.)
Peanuts and nuts tend to be packaged for airlines in small, sealed bags. When the bag is opened, the "dust," which is in fact finely ground peanut or nut meat, becomes airborne. Inhalation of allergens is one of the fastest ways to induce an allergic reaction. The allergen goes from the nose and lungs directly into the bloodstream. (This works with drugs too. That's why cocaine and other drugs are snorted.)
We don't ask that people never again eat nuts or peanuts. We ask only that they control themselves while we're in a plane together. If you're so selfish that you can't survive without a snack for a couple of hours, your parents did a remarkably poor job of raising you.
We all share this planet. Try to think of someone other than yourself, if only while you fly.
I realize that many people don't believe food allergies are real and think that if we don't know the allergen is included in what we're served, we won't react. That's not just wrong, it's attempted, sometimes successful, murder. (Don't try it. It shows on autopsy.)
2
As one of some 15% of the US population allergic to animal dander and 30% of asthmatics with the same problem, I'm amazed at how little interest the airlines show in changing the seat of passengers placed near on-board pets—something once usually doesn't discover until boarding has begun. Surely, even on a full flight, a cabin attendant could broadcast a request for people willing to exchange their seat with the allergy sufferer!
12
It's not "not possible" for them to make an announcement or let a family pre-board. They just won't do it.
4
Flew down to Puerto Rico yesterday am.
2 dogs on the plane. I worried about those with pet dander allergies breathing the contained, recycled airplane air.
Allergies are such a curse!
2 dogs on the plane. I worried about those with pet dander allergies breathing the contained, recycled airplane air.
Allergies are such a curse!
6
If airlines offered a premium "individually cleaned and wrapped seating area" for an extra fee, sounds like there would be a lot of buyers. They could cover the seats and trays in paper and plastic. They would probably use the same seats every time, there might be a few rows like this. Part of that could be not serving those passengers any food at all, let them bring in their own.
9
What about peanuts at ball games? Has anyone looked into that?
Or bars and even restaurants that provide free peanuts, and the floors are awash with peanut shells and husks?
I frequent a vegetable stand in summer where the floors were always dusted with sawdust to absorb any errant drips and drops.
This summer I noticed that the sawdust was gone--to my consternation. I always liked the sawdust. I asked the owner and he told me that he had had complaints recently about sawdust on floors being unsanitary.
God help us when WWIII arrives. We're going down.
Or bars and even restaurants that provide free peanuts, and the floors are awash with peanut shells and husks?
I frequent a vegetable stand in summer where the floors were always dusted with sawdust to absorb any errant drips and drops.
This summer I noticed that the sawdust was gone--to my consternation. I always liked the sawdust. I asked the owner and he told me that he had had complaints recently about sawdust on floors being unsanitary.
God help us when WWIII arrives. We're going down.
11
N, the Yankees have peanut free sections in the stadium. Enough for ya?
Another thought: what about those special medically equipped planes? I know several people who've flown on them due to heart conditions or similar.
Perhaps the parents of children with life-threatening allergies should instead look into such planes, which are fully equipped for all kinds of medical emergencies.
Sure, it would cost the parents extra. But it would eliminate the need to inconvenience an entire fleet of travelers.
Fair enough?
Perhaps the parents of children with life-threatening allergies should instead look into such planes, which are fully equipped for all kinds of medical emergencies.
Sure, it would cost the parents extra. But it would eliminate the need to inconvenience an entire fleet of travelers.
Fair enough?
4
Not eating peanuts for the duration of a flight is an inconvenience? You must be a treat to live or work with.
2
Statistically, there is greater risk to children from un immunized in their school than peanuts in a room to children with peanut allergy. The safest thing would be to sequester the children who have not been
Immunized. It's really the Kardashian effect. If attention is available it must obtained. Emotions = data.
Immunized. It's really the Kardashian effect. If attention is available it must obtained. Emotions = data.
9
No one could be more frightened than a set of parents who find that their infant has allergies... allergies much worse and different from any they'd ever heard of. Allergies provoking a life threatening situation from merely being TOUCHED by something. A potential medical emergency not from eating anything. A potentially life threatening situation requiring an EpiPen and immediate trip to the ER. A child's allergy doesn't come from bad behavior or negligence. It simply presents itself. A family's life becomes on edge with the sudden, new reality that countless packaged and fresh foods are produced with the item that could kill your innocent child. It means the reality that from now on there's a real danger for your child at daycare, or preschool or grade school. Or visiting a friend's home. The real danger that their child might simply touch something that could cause a life-threatening incident. This isn't about choice. It's amazing to see some of the comments here that are so uncaring, cavalier, and hurtful. I guess it's easy to be selfish when the child isn't yours. No one knows why more and more kids have nut allergies. My baby grandson was discovered to be allergic to pistachios, walnuts and cashews. I had never heard of this, but it is now part of our family's reality. And I think about other people when I contemplate what I bring or eat on a plane.
10
Yes, perhaps those who react to breathing one or two proteins need to reconsider their travel options. But, for many, the issue is the macro, not micro, crumbs left by those who rail against inconveniences "imposed" by others including the inconvenience of cleaning up after themselves. It is sensible for a non-allergic member of a travel party to wipe away crumbs instead of having their allergic companions do so. It is an easy way of mitigating risk to an acceptable level.
If this offends, please pledge that you will continue to obstruct any accommodations even when you or your loved ones, and for many this will be inevitable, develop severe allergies.
If this offends, please pledge that you will continue to obstruct any accommodations even when you or your loved ones, and for many this will be inevitable, develop severe allergies.
4
Why do they have to "pre-board" just to wipe off the tray and seat? Do it when you get there. Takes a second. Then don't eat anything if you're worried.
9
It takes a lot more time than one second to thoroughly wipe down seats etc. With passengers lined up behind you and flight attendants prodding "please step out of the aisle and into your seats immediately.".
Delta is really good about this, which I appreciate. I fly on Delta regularly and I never mind if/when they make this announcement and don't serve peanuts. I have young family members with this allergy. How can any reasonable person claim that their wish to serve or eat peanuts instead of another snack outweighs another passenger's potentially severe health issue?
10
What other snack?
1
My brother is allergic to nuts and he's the only one in our family. We all grew up eating peanut butter, but we learned he's extremely allergic to pecans. Nothing could have been done to prevent this. Why are you blaming families for allergies?
8
It's appalling to me as a physician that kids with asthma who are triggered by dander have less protection and rights than a person with a fake or even possibly real support dog on the plane. I've seen them have to suffer the indignity of being told they were the ones who had to move seats or leave the plane rather than the dog owner.
10
The ADA forbids airlines from barring service dogs and from asking what the nature of the disability is or for proof the service animal is real. If the airline does what you're asking them to do, they'll face suit for discriminating against a disabled person.
I'm disabled (but don't need a service or companion animal) and the ADA has allowed me to have a mostly-normal life. Those protections are there for good reason, including enabling those who need to travel the ability to do so.
In another comment, I suggested driving, and that might be an option here, too. I don't like airline behavior any more than anyone else does, so I avoid flying and drive instead. I control my own environment that way. And I certainly don't complain and demand that a business violate the ADA to make me happy.
I'm disabled (but don't need a service or companion animal) and the ADA has allowed me to have a mostly-normal life. Those protections are there for good reason, including enabling those who need to travel the ability to do so.
In another comment, I suggested driving, and that might be an option here, too. I don't like airline behavior any more than anyone else does, so I avoid flying and drive instead. I control my own environment that way. And I certainly don't complain and demand that a business violate the ADA to make me happy.
3
A balanced, well-reasoned and civil comment. I, too, am grateful an ADA has given disabled people a little leverage when the boorish and ignorant try to prevent a person from having a chance at a reasonable life...not perfect, not 'everybody stand back I'm coming through', but also not ignored baselessly either.
Having a little consideration works both ways. And that means I don't try to make my problems someone else's, and that I don't have to not have a life, either. A pretty good tradeoff.
But, honestly, when a lawyer here in town files over 3,000 lawsuits looking for a few thousand from each 'violation' and then hits a neighbor across the street trying to make a 'dog-grooming' business support his wife and new child? That gives a special interest bad name to the whole enterprise.
Having a little consideration works both ways. And that means I don't try to make my problems someone else's, and that I don't have to not have a life, either. A pretty good tradeoff.
But, honestly, when a lawyer here in town files over 3,000 lawsuits looking for a few thousand from each 'violation' and then hits a neighbor across the street trying to make a 'dog-grooming' business support his wife and new child? That gives a special interest bad name to the whole enterprise.
Doesn't anyone else see the broader issue of how airlines are free to treat passengers poorly, with no consideration for medical, physical, or other needs? How they can arbitrarily and punitively deny boarding, or remove passengers who dare to ask for the slightest accommodation? This isn't a referendum on life threatening allergies, it's an example of passengers rights versus the airlines, with little to no mandated consumer protections or standards from the FAA or Congress. Bravo for this group taking action - I hope they prevail.
8
It's a) consumers shopping for rock-bottom airfares and b) legal liability.
If you insist on flying from NYC to LA for $350 you are going to get rock-bottom, lowest-common-denominator service; before deregulation this far was standardized -- non-negotiable -- at around $1,200.
And given their slim or often non-existent profit margins I can't blame airlines for wanting to minimize their legal liability to consumer lawsuits I want them to be there for me when we wish to fly.
If you don't like the service, or the terms and conditions on the back of your contract, or the airlines' policies -- don't fly them. Find another way to get around. Last time I checked there were not too many empty seats so chances are you won't be missed.
In other words, supply and demand, baby.
If you insist on flying from NYC to LA for $350 you are going to get rock-bottom, lowest-common-denominator service; before deregulation this far was standardized -- non-negotiable -- at around $1,200.
And given their slim or often non-existent profit margins I can't blame airlines for wanting to minimize their legal liability to consumer lawsuits I want them to be there for me when we wish to fly.
If you don't like the service, or the terms and conditions on the back of your contract, or the airlines' policies -- don't fly them. Find another way to get around. Last time I checked there were not too many empty seats so chances are you won't be missed.
In other words, supply and demand, baby.
1
Good point. That being crammed into a narrow seat with no room to move for endless hours is known to increase the probability of deep vein thrombosis. That has not stopped the airlines from providing narrow seats with no room to move.
1
Yet they still serve liquor to drunks.
To the commenter named "Here": Please stay off of airplanes. Your ugly attitude would likely be contagious in enclosed spaces, so you shouldn't endanger others by flying.
16
This is awful. My daughter has a severe peanut/tree nut allergy. Usually we fly Southwest and they are always accommodating, even let her preboard and she feels very comfortable. Over Christmas we flew Allegiant and when we mentioned her allergy they informed us that they can't prevent anyone from consuming or purchasing nut containing snacks on the plane. When I asked if they can make a quick announcement kindly requesting that the passengers not consume nuts due to my daughters allergy, they said that that was not possible. They also went as far as to recommend I purchase all the nut containing snacks myself and dispose of them if I didn't want them on the flight. Luckily our surrounding passengers were kind enough to not eat or "purchase " nuts on the plane. To say the least we will never fly Allegiant again.
10
Preboarding for a nut allergy? How does that help, exactly?
7
It seems to me that if the situation is so critical just from a practical sense you would research company policy before thinking of buying tickets for a child to be enclosed in a room at 30,000 feet.
9
A couple of years ago, my cousins, their adult daughter and her 12-year-old nut-allergic son came to spend a week with me. The boy's mother emailed me to request that if I had any nuts in the house, that I keep them out of sight so as not to distress her child.
The family arrived in the grandparents' car. Every day my cousin and her husband prepared lunch and snacks for themselves (the daughter and grandson stayed in a nearby hotel). I was astonished to see that nuts were a considerable part of their sustenance, and remarked upon that, and they told me cheerfully (obliviously?) that the little boy wasn't going to eat their food, and there wasn't anything to worry about.
Well, the kid asked perpetually about the potential presence of nuts in anything I served. When we ordered in Chinese food, his mother didn't ask about the cooking oil until the child spoke up anxiously, and she then called the restaurant to ensure that the food she'd ordered was nut-free.
But, like I said, they traveled everywhere in Grandma's car, full of nuts, and Grandma and Grandpa handled nuts all the time, and there must have been some cross-contamination occurring somewhere, sometime, during their time with me and in that car,, and despite the child's incredible level of anxiety, he was in fact fine.
I was rather perplexed that his mother saw fit to tell me to keep any nuts or nut products well-hidden, but wasn't able to prevail upon her parents to do the same. Who was right? Beats me.
The family arrived in the grandparents' car. Every day my cousin and her husband prepared lunch and snacks for themselves (the daughter and grandson stayed in a nearby hotel). I was astonished to see that nuts were a considerable part of their sustenance, and remarked upon that, and they told me cheerfully (obliviously?) that the little boy wasn't going to eat their food, and there wasn't anything to worry about.
Well, the kid asked perpetually about the potential presence of nuts in anything I served. When we ordered in Chinese food, his mother didn't ask about the cooking oil until the child spoke up anxiously, and she then called the restaurant to ensure that the food she'd ordered was nut-free.
But, like I said, they traveled everywhere in Grandma's car, full of nuts, and Grandma and Grandpa handled nuts all the time, and there must have been some cross-contamination occurring somewhere, sometime, during their time with me and in that car,, and despite the child's incredible level of anxiety, he was in fact fine.
I was rather perplexed that his mother saw fit to tell me to keep any nuts or nut products well-hidden, but wasn't able to prevail upon her parents to do the same. Who was right? Beats me.
14
There's a basic illogic here that's stunning. By the time you get to your airline seat to wipe it and the tray down, you've likely touched an incredible number of surfaces that themselves were touched by a very large number of people. Did you arrive in a taxi? How many places did you sit down in?
To imagine that you and your child arrived on the plane in a pristine, uncontaminated state is pushing reality. How many people touched your documents and luggage before you touched them again?
Yes--the psychological component of feeling that by having your fellow passengers prevented from eating peanuts, you have controlled and rendered safe your immediate environment is a very large part of the issue. How do you handle bathroom use? Is your child forbidden to touch any surface once sitting down? If not, contaminants are being reintroduced no matter how many times you've wiped surfaces down.
To imagine that you and your child arrived on the plane in a pristine, uncontaminated state is pushing reality. How many people touched your documents and luggage before you touched them again?
Yes--the psychological component of feeling that by having your fellow passengers prevented from eating peanuts, you have controlled and rendered safe your immediate environment is a very large part of the issue. How do you handle bathroom use? Is your child forbidden to touch any surface once sitting down? If not, contaminants are being reintroduced no matter how many times you've wiped surfaces down.
26
The biggest problem with an in air reaction is that if anyone needs an epi pen the next step is to go to the emergency room. The reaction can reoccur 15 minutes later or hours later. This is why air travel is such an anxious experience for people that have anaphylactic food allergies. For example, we can't take our son camping because the closest hospital is too far away....
3
I don't mean to be harsh, but this post is rather ignorant. You're basically saying that because you can't prevent ever touching surfaces that might be contaminated you should never take precautions. Obviously you don't know anything about preventing catastrophes. It's all about reducing probabilities of bad things happening, not eliminating the possibility entirely.
And think for a moment here. An airplane seat and tray are very different from, say, riding in a taxi. How many people eat a peanut butter sandwich when riding in a taxi? Guess what people do when in closed quarters for several hours on an airplane? They eat. And guess what those little trays are for? They're meal trays.
And here's the real kicker: what happens if you're in a taxi and you start to have an allergic reaction? The cab drive takes you to the emergency room. What happens if you're in an airplane over the ocean? Oh, nothing to be done. See the difference?
If you can't see that wiping down the seats and trays in an airplane is a sound preventive measure, I don't know what to tell you. But then our society is clearly full of uncaring people who lack attention to careful thought.
And think for a moment here. An airplane seat and tray are very different from, say, riding in a taxi. How many people eat a peanut butter sandwich when riding in a taxi? Guess what people do when in closed quarters for several hours on an airplane? They eat. And guess what those little trays are for? They're meal trays.
And here's the real kicker: what happens if you're in a taxi and you start to have an allergic reaction? The cab drive takes you to the emergency room. What happens if you're in an airplane over the ocean? Oh, nothing to be done. See the difference?
If you can't see that wiping down the seats and trays in an airplane is a sound preventive measure, I don't know what to tell you. But then our society is clearly full of uncaring people who lack attention to careful thought.
11
The interesting part of the comment to me was the cavalier attitude of the family making their own food, after the request to keep nuts 'out of sight' to avoid distress, and even more interesting was the child's, or son's reaction to the food coming from the restaurant....he sounds as if he's in a high state of anxiety, at all times? And as it's written, the post presents the question, "How much of this is induced anxiety in the child, subject as he is to the ever-present warnings from a parent and over-the-top fears of a potential encounter with the dreaded peanut dust?" Has he had a near-fatal experience?
Peanuts, tree nuts, and seeds are a good healthy snack; I often carry my own, since as a vegan I can't eat (and don't want to eat) most airline or even airport food. Cookies and pretzels, in contrast, are not healthy: they are full of refined carbohydrates, sugar, salt, and fat. Maybe the airlines could serve fruit or vegetables instead? Or nothing?
10
I'd take some nice cold carrot sticks. A little impractical to tote around though.
7
Peanuts are a legume, and many people who are allergic to peanuts can safely eat, or at least be around, tree nuts and seeds (sunflower, pumpkin, etc.). I think it's silly that airlines don't just substitute those things for the peanuts. When my kids were in a class with a severely peanut-allergic child, all the other families just used almond butter or sunflower butter instead of peanut butter. Problem solved. The substitutes were probably healthier, too.
3
My daughter is allergic to pineapple we found that out in Pre-3 when she was served it. Her lips swelled and developed a rash. Pineapples and fruitcocktail of the canned variety are a staple of the public school lunch program. I have been rudely treated and dismissed when I politely asked her elementary school to stop serving pineapple. It was not just that my daughter could decline pineapple and any fruit punch drink in a box, but those cafeteria or cafe workers spash that pineapple juice across all the other food as they serve the food on the trays. I can not count how many times my daughter would come home with swollen lips and a rash on her face. I would ask did they serve pineapple at lunch? Mommy, I did not eat it. I said but the had it didn't they yes. I would go in and ask please stop serving it like you do with peanuts and peanut butter. I would show them my child's face. I would say can you please not think of what you are doing. We can not do that we have to have X amount of this in our menu. PInaapple and Dole must have fit the budget.
Last week at 22 my daughter went to an allergist and immunologist to try to get answers to why she has never recovered from swine flu 8 years ago. When he read on the form that she was allergic to pineapple he said that is a very rare and dangerous allergy. He also said she needs to bring some in and they need to retest her formally in the office. She may need to carry any Epi pen. Her ? How do I carry the pineapple. I said mommy.
Last week at 22 my daughter went to an allergist and immunologist to try to get answers to why she has never recovered from swine flu 8 years ago. When he read on the form that she was allergic to pineapple he said that is a very rare and dangerous allergy. He also said she needs to bring some in and they need to retest her formally in the office. She may need to carry any Epi pen. Her ? How do I carry the pineapple. I said mommy.
In an unopened can that you buy off a shelf in the grocery store.
1
Nut allergies are preventable by exposing children to nuts early on. Hopefully parents will heed this advice and spare the rest of us the annoyance in the future!!
8
You're buying too much into the hype about desensitization therapy. It's new, and not effective in every case. So, spare us the simplistic thinking already.
25
An unproven therapy works on every child in the U.S. and should be used by all parents. Hopefully parents will heed this advice and let the rest of us gorge ourselves on peanuts without needing to be considerate about their worthless children.
1
Don't believe the hype. I was exposed to peanut butter at a young age. I am now 53. I've been hospitalized three times after being exposed to peanuts despite taking every precaution to ask about ingredients and wipe down surfaces. I carry an Epi-pen religiously. I've never had a problem on a flight by politely explaining my allergy and asking my fellow passengers to not eat peanuts. When asked what would happen I tell them.."well, you'll never forget this flight because the flight will be diverted and I might die if it takes too long to get me to a hospital" Dramatic I know but truthful and effective.
1
From reading this thread, it's pretty clear that the peanut-allergy crowd are utterly intolerant of the idea that anyone else's allergy is equal to theirs in severity. So much for their loud cries of how wretched the rest of us are for not understanding...
What are you doing to mitigate the tendency of your or your child's immune system to play such havoc in your life, and from encroaching on the normal lives of others? Anything, other than complaining, and carrying your rescue medications?
While anaphylaxis is real, so are the effects of stress on immune-system response. My adult-onset asthma, triggered solely by cats, began during an exceptionally stressful time in my life, and I nearly died several times despite having the appropriate medications. Now, in a much less stressful time in my life, I am almost impervious to cat allergy and have not used any medication for many years now. But when I know I might encounter cats, I ensure that I've taken extra vitamin C ahead of time (a natural antihistamine, look it up) and know that a strong cup of black tea contains theophylline, the same substance used in asthma medication, and will drink that if I even suspect I may be starting to feel unwell.
I don't suggest these measures will work for you or your children. But what lifestyle changes have you made, other than avoiding nuts? Or do you live in a heightened state of perpetual stress-response which only exacerbates the likelihood of an adverse event?
What are you doing to mitigate the tendency of your or your child's immune system to play such havoc in your life, and from encroaching on the normal lives of others? Anything, other than complaining, and carrying your rescue medications?
While anaphylaxis is real, so are the effects of stress on immune-system response. My adult-onset asthma, triggered solely by cats, began during an exceptionally stressful time in my life, and I nearly died several times despite having the appropriate medications. Now, in a much less stressful time in my life, I am almost impervious to cat allergy and have not used any medication for many years now. But when I know I might encounter cats, I ensure that I've taken extra vitamin C ahead of time (a natural antihistamine, look it up) and know that a strong cup of black tea contains theophylline, the same substance used in asthma medication, and will drink that if I even suspect I may be starting to feel unwell.
I don't suggest these measures will work for you or your children. But what lifestyle changes have you made, other than avoiding nuts? Or do you live in a heightened state of perpetual stress-response which only exacerbates the likelihood of an adverse event?
12
You cannot "will" yourself to not react to a food allergen. It's a well-known fact that asthma has a stress component to it, but this is not the case with food allergies.
2
I'm happy that you "cured" your cat allergy by drinking tea and taking vitamin C. I suggest you probably know nothing about the daily lives of any of us dealing with anaphylactic food allergies in our families, and I further suggest that your condescending tone is a product of your ignorance. Thanks for your suggestions about "lifestyle changes," but the fact that my son's severe food allergies first manifested themselves when he was one month old and exclusively breast fed should probably signal to you that there was probably nothing else at that point I could have done, "lifestyle wise," that would have helped him. Upon the advice of my physician and pediatrician, I eliminated virtually everything from my diet other than some lean white poultry, vegetables, and select non-citrus fruits, while breastfeeding him for a YEAR in order to give him the best chance at health and to outgrowing his food allergies. He doesn't live in a perpetual state of heightened stress response because I have taught him to eat healthfully and we cook from scratch. We exercise. We enjoy life. He still has multiple anaphylactic allergies and I think, if you can hold your condescending attitude in check long enough, we'll discover these food allergies had nothing to do with anything I personally did or didn't do.....just as your miraculous curing of your own alleged cat allergy was probably not due to any of your own brilliance.
2
theophylline IS a bronchodilator, and may be helpful as a maintenance drug (it's available in prescription extended-release pill form for that use) or *added to* using a proper rescue inhaler, but it is NOT a good choice for a primary rescue medicine during attacks. for that nearly all prescriptions are inhaled albuterol (aka salbuteramol in Europe), and nothing you can get over the counter is as effective. albuterol is also what you'll get if you end up in the ER.
if you don't have an albuterol inhaler, or it doesn't fully stop an attack, theophylline and it's close relatives caffeine and theobromine (found in chocolate) are probably better than doing nothing - certainly if it helps you not panic to do something, that right there is very important. I've used the trick myself when I'm feeling just a little tight, because of the side effects I get from albuterol. and for asthmatics, I definitely wouldn't recommend trying to break a caffeine addiction in the name of clean eating or some such, because it's actually likely to be helping! but, **anyone with asthma should ask their doctor to prescribe a proper rescue inhaler**, rather than relying on OTC meds or foods with these compounds for an acute attack.
if you don't have an albuterol inhaler, or it doesn't fully stop an attack, theophylline and it's close relatives caffeine and theobromine (found in chocolate) are probably better than doing nothing - certainly if it helps you not panic to do something, that right there is very important. I've used the trick myself when I'm feeling just a little tight, because of the side effects I get from albuterol. and for asthmatics, I definitely wouldn't recommend trying to break a caffeine addiction in the name of clean eating or some such, because it's actually likely to be helping! but, **anyone with asthma should ask their doctor to prescribe a proper rescue inhaler**, rather than relying on OTC meds or foods with these compounds for an acute attack.
While I sympathize with the .6% or so of people who suffer from peanut allergies to various degrees, it is impractical -- really impossible -- to ban anyone from bringing peanuts or other allergens onto a flight. An airline is just setting itself up if it promises peanut-free flights or zones.
19
There's a big difference between a flight during which snack packs of peanuts have been handed out to nearly everyone on board, and a flight during which one or two people have opened up bags of nuts.
22
More like 5% of people. Get your facts straight.
4
Allergy-free parent of an allergy-free child here. My son is 3 years old and I have taught him that we ask if people around us have nut allergies before he eats his snacks in a closed space. He has embraced this since it is part of the overall education my husband and I provide to him as his parents. We teach him to think about the needs of others. Fact: There are people in the world who have life-threatening allergies. Fact: If I can do my part to make sure that I don't accidentally kill them, I will. Why? Eating nuts is a privilege, not a necessity. To the comment authors who put their taste buds ahead of the needs of others, I urge you to learn from my 3 year old son. There's a lot he can teach you.
29
Michelle: Thanks for the virtue signaling.
13
My toes curl at the vision of a sanctimonious toddler polling people about their medical issues.
28
Michelle – –
Thank you so much for your comment. It's good to know that there are still positive community members out there teaching kids positive lessons.
My family is not allergic either, but I am stunned at the anger and selfishness reflected in some of the comments on this article.
As to the comment regarding "virtue signaling" – – I dispute that characterization, but I would certainly prefer that over "anger and paranoia signaling."
Thank you so much for your comment. It's good to know that there are still positive community members out there teaching kids positive lessons.
My family is not allergic either, but I am stunned at the anger and selfishness reflected in some of the comments on this article.
As to the comment regarding "virtue signaling" – – I dispute that characterization, but I would certainly prefer that over "anger and paranoia signaling."
17
The unraveling is almost complete. For the outraged, would you ever consider forgoing a favorite steakhouse in order that a vegetarian friend has more choices? Would you never make a virgin cocktail for your pregnant sister? Would you serve Thanksgiving dinner earlier so that your young nephew could join the table? I bet many of you would accommodate the tastes and needs of friends/family. But we are close to having completely unraveled as a nation. Fellow citizens who are strangers are no longer seen as part of the tribe. We are suspicious. Dare I say, paranoid.
Whoa, who are you calling paranoid?
Americans are paranoid, not just of the world, of science, even each other. My proof? The attitudes expressed in this comments section and...
Guns. When so many citizens are armed to the teeth with high capacity, rapid fire weapons, who are they arming themselves against? a)zombies
b)space aliens c)Chinese paratroopers d)each other
We are loaded for bear against each other. That's right, American citizens buy AR-15s to defend against other Americans.
The unraveling is almost complete.
Whoa, who are you calling paranoid?
Americans are paranoid, not just of the world, of science, even each other. My proof? The attitudes expressed in this comments section and...
Guns. When so many citizens are armed to the teeth with high capacity, rapid fire weapons, who are they arming themselves against? a)zombies
b)space aliens c)Chinese paratroopers d)each other
We are loaded for bear against each other. That's right, American citizens buy AR-15s to defend against other Americans.
The unraveling is almost complete.
22
The proper analogy is the parents bringing sweetums into a steakhouse and demanding everyone not eat meat.
5
When I traveled abroad last year, I had a supply of individually-wrapped nut-and-fruit snack bars with me to ensure I'd have something nourishing and non-messy ready to hand in case of need. I didn't, in fact, need to eat them, but they were convenient, keep fresh for ages and can be easily packed. I doubt that my consuming them--using the wrapper as a napkin since the little devils are sticky--would harm someone.
Please someone show us the scientific documentation that my consumption of a snack like that--not placing it on a tray, or seat, or anywhere other than in my mouth--will endanger someone, and I'll listen. Otherwise--
Please someone show us the scientific documentation that my consumption of a snack like that--not placing it on a tray, or seat, or anywhere other than in my mouth--will endanger someone, and I'll listen. Otherwise--
12
Would you know to not let your peanut snack touch the seat or tray if they didn't make an announcement? I wouldn't have known this before my son was diagnosed. People can react to 0.5% of a peanut. So if your hand touches tray with peanut on it.... They are just asking to pre board to wipe seats and trays. You know...so their kids can travel without worrying about going into anaphylactic shock in the air.
10
Kids can also mimic he extreme and inappropriate modeling of misplaced anxiety of their parents.
3
I think Colleen's reply to your post is accurate and useful, but please bear in mind that what we are broadly asking the airlines for is simply a) allow us to board early so that we can wipe down the seat area where we are sitting so as to minimize the chance of my son touching the exact spot where you left a crumb or wrapper or whatever; b) for the airline to make an announcement *asking* people to voluntarily refrain from consuming nuts; c) for the airlines to consider--even agree--not to serve nuts as plane-wide snacks on flights with peanut or nut allergic passengers. That's what we're asking. We're not telling you that you can't eat your bar. We're simply saying we want the airlines to make certain small accommodations to give people an opportunity to make the flight safer. That's all.
2
The article should have included a couple of paragraphs on the seriousness of peanut allergy versus other allergies and intolerances. Obviously many commenters and members of the general public have no idea of the seriousness of peanut allergy. Many are comparing it to dog dander allergy or gluten intolerance.
17
My son has 15 severe food allergies and believe me, each one is just as deadly as the next. The US has 8 top food allergies. Each are equally dangerous to the people who are allergic
8
Jessica --
That is simply not true as a demographic/public health matter. We are talking about populations, not individuals one by one.
That is simply not true as a demographic/public health matter. We are talking about populations, not individuals one by one.
7
So many people posting are furious that people with nut allergies are "demanding that everyone else accommodate them." Did you read the article? This is not about families asking airlines to stop serving nuts. They just want to be allowed on the plane a few minutes early (with other pre-boarders) to wipe the seats clean-- or, at least, not to be denied the right to board at all just for asking. How does that inconvenience you, and why does it outrage you so much?
31
Why do they need to pre-board?
No perfect answers, but perhaps common sense will at least help.
Flying is often more than a convenience, it is sometimes close to a necessity. Airlines should not be afraid to let passengers with nut allergies on planes, if they or their parents sign waivers. The waivers should be legally binding, which will require Federal regulation to keep the lawyers under control.
Airlines should make reasonable accommodation, like not serving peanuts, but should not have to delay their flights by hyper-cleaning the cabins.
Legitimate service animals must be accommodated, but not “emotional support” animals – that is going too far, and inconveniences many, including those with true allergies to animal dander.
It is surprising how many commenters have so little sympathy towards those with serious allergies, it may be an understandable reaction to unreasonable demands by those with real or perceived allergies. Both sides may need to behave with, you’ll pardon me, maturity.
Why are there so many people with peanut and other allergies nowadays? This may be because well-intentioned but misguided parents overprotected their very young infants from common allergens in the past, so the children did not develop immunologic tolerance. The medical advice given in years past was likely exactly wrong. There are lessons here, too.
Finally, companies that have raised the price of epipens, which are probably inexpensive to manufacture, to exorbitant levels need to be sanctioned.
Flying is often more than a convenience, it is sometimes close to a necessity. Airlines should not be afraid to let passengers with nut allergies on planes, if they or their parents sign waivers. The waivers should be legally binding, which will require Federal regulation to keep the lawyers under control.
Airlines should make reasonable accommodation, like not serving peanuts, but should not have to delay their flights by hyper-cleaning the cabins.
Legitimate service animals must be accommodated, but not “emotional support” animals – that is going too far, and inconveniences many, including those with true allergies to animal dander.
It is surprising how many commenters have so little sympathy towards those with serious allergies, it may be an understandable reaction to unreasonable demands by those with real or perceived allergies. Both sides may need to behave with, you’ll pardon me, maturity.
Why are there so many people with peanut and other allergies nowadays? This may be because well-intentioned but misguided parents overprotected their very young infants from common allergens in the past, so the children did not develop immunologic tolerance. The medical advice given in years past was likely exactly wrong. There are lessons here, too.
Finally, companies that have raised the price of epipens, which are probably inexpensive to manufacture, to exorbitant levels need to be sanctioned.
18
Thank you for your sensible comments.
3
It is much easier to put on slippers, than it is to carpet the world.
Airlines need to tell those passengers to bring their slippers, because... you know.
Airlines need to tell those passengers to bring their slippers, because... you know.
11
You mean like a "boy in the bubble" suit and a respirator?
It's probably better to keep the world's number one serious food allergen out of tightly populated no-exit spaces like airplanes.
The people who think this issue is about "snowflake millennials" have no knowledge of or experience with peanut allergy.
It's probably better to keep the world's number one serious food allergen out of tightly populated no-exit spaces like airplanes.
The people who think this issue is about "snowflake millennials" have no knowledge of or experience with peanut allergy.
22
No doubt Lisa, you will loudly inform them of their ignorance should they pull out a Snickers bar. That will show them.
6
Here --
I read through most of the comments because I have a professional interest in this issue. It's impossible to miss your many contributions because of the degree of obsession and negativity reflected. It would be interesting to know how a person becomes this angry about something like this. Did something traumatic happen to you in your life that involved being inconvenienced by the allergy of another?
I read through most of the comments because I have a professional interest in this issue. It's impossible to miss your many contributions because of the degree of obsession and negativity reflected. It would be interesting to know how a person becomes this angry about something like this. Did something traumatic happen to you in your life that involved being inconvenienced by the allergy of another?
21
How can people be so insensitive, selfish and frankly uninformed? Obviously many of these people don't take food allergies seriously. I hope none of you are ever my server in a restaurant and give me food I am allergic to as recently happened. I am not allergic to nuts but I don't understand why airlines keep serving them. Nut allergies are uniquely severe and banning them on planes shouldn't start a cascade of food bans. I even try to bring alternate snacks to peanuts when I fly because I don't want to go hungry if someone asks me not to eat them. Allergies are not in your head or the result of helicopter parenting. They are real. Read the science or don't we believe in science anymore?
13
So it seems like the better choice for those with allergies, then, is not to say anything to the airline, travel with their medicine, and if something happens, then the flight will need to be diverted to attend to the medical emergency - which is necessary in most cases even if there is an EpiPen. That seems a lot more inconvenient than refraining from eating nuts for the duration of a flight.
17
Look--we have neither the immune systems nor the food staples of yesteryear, and when you try to fool Mother Nature, you're gonna get some unforeseen outcomes.
Our kids don't routinely die of rampaging disease outbreaks and we have abundant food, and in the course of achieving those triumphs we've changed how our bodies respond to this new environment.
Re gluten intolerance--sure there are likely lots of people latching onto the diagnosis du jour. But it's also true that we are growing different varieties of wheat than what the staff of life was baked from for millennia. We are stimulating our children's immune systems in ways that are likely causing some of them to go haywire. We have plenty of genetically altered foodstuffs, and there's no way to tell how any individual's digestive system will handle what it encounters, and how it develops bad reactions to all sorts of new protein combinations.
As others have noted, it's not just about peanuts. People are or can become allergic to almost anything, with no prior warning of their sensitivity until a catastrophic reaction, and the legume and nut-allergic crowd here are remarkably intolerant themselves to the idea that others can have an equally deadly allergy--to animals, for example--and have no way of avoiding them in a plane cabin. You're not uniquely at risk, so why are you insisting that you are?
Our kids don't routinely die of rampaging disease outbreaks and we have abundant food, and in the course of achieving those triumphs we've changed how our bodies respond to this new environment.
Re gluten intolerance--sure there are likely lots of people latching onto the diagnosis du jour. But it's also true that we are growing different varieties of wheat than what the staff of life was baked from for millennia. We are stimulating our children's immune systems in ways that are likely causing some of them to go haywire. We have plenty of genetically altered foodstuffs, and there's no way to tell how any individual's digestive system will handle what it encounters, and how it develops bad reactions to all sorts of new protein combinations.
As others have noted, it's not just about peanuts. People are or can become allergic to almost anything, with no prior warning of their sensitivity until a catastrophic reaction, and the legume and nut-allergic crowd here are remarkably intolerant themselves to the idea that others can have an equally deadly allergy--to animals, for example--and have no way of avoiding them in a plane cabin. You're not uniquely at risk, so why are you insisting that you are?
3
Please do some research on peanut allergy before you opine. It is not comparable to the other far lower level risks you enumerate.
13
Lisa: As someone who has nearly died several times because of cat-triggered adult onset asthma, I continue to be bemused at how the legume-allergy crowd insists theirs is the only perilous one.
It's not. Any allergic reaction can go into overdrive. An asthma attack can end in cardiac arrest, and death. This newspaper printed a most poignant letter by a young widower to the doctors of a now-deceased young woman who went into an irreversible coma and died after a catastrophic asthma attack.
People who have had little or no prior close exposure to any of the stunning number of animals now allowed into airline cabins may not know until they're unable to breathe that they are, in fact, allergic to Jonny's comfort hamster. The same goes for almost any food product. Now that airlines try to serve "gourmet" meals, hidden allergens can be everywhere.
You're not exclusive.
It's not. Any allergic reaction can go into overdrive. An asthma attack can end in cardiac arrest, and death. This newspaper printed a most poignant letter by a young widower to the doctors of a now-deceased young woman who went into an irreversible coma and died after a catastrophic asthma attack.
People who have had little or no prior close exposure to any of the stunning number of animals now allowed into airline cabins may not know until they're unable to breathe that they are, in fact, allergic to Jonny's comfort hamster. The same goes for almost any food product. Now that airlines try to serve "gourmet" meals, hidden allergens can be everywhere.
You're not exclusive.
19
I get the cat allergy issue, because I have been admitted to the hospital many times for my cat-triggered asthma. However, as the parent of a son with anaphylactic food allergies to peanuts, tree nuts, eggs, and milk, I'd like to suggest that the difference between the peanut allergy and the cat allergy is as follows: on a plane, even if there is one cat, you can ask to be moved and you can and surely would have your rescue medications at hand. By contrast, if an airline is serving peanuts, that is the equivalent of everybody on your airplane holding a cat. And brushing it. And rubbing the cat into the carpet, and seat upholstery, and armrests. So, if airlines served cats, how would you feel about flying? Wouldn't it seem crazy that the airlines would voluntarily give out the very thing that caused a relatively large part of the population, including you, to almost die? Luckily, the airlines don't serve cats. But they do serve peanuts. So, here we are.
2
I can't eat airport food (junk), and I can't bring anything in liquid form past security: a bag of nuts, seeds, and dried fruit are my go-to snacks for long flights. I don't want to deny anyone reasonable accomodation, but--really? Where does this stop?
A kid who flies into anaphylactic shock at the least contact with a very common substance is too sick to be walking around, and I remain unsure why the parents of a child with such severe allergic reactions would be willing to put their child's life in the hands of strangers. Even if we refrain from bringing nuts on the flight, there is no guarantee that another kid hasn't got peanut butter in her hair from her breakfast at home. It's an unfortunate situation, but the airlines are right not to offer these people a false sense of security and leave themselves open to liability.
A kid who flies into anaphylactic shock at the least contact with a very common substance is too sick to be walking around, and I remain unsure why the parents of a child with such severe allergic reactions would be willing to put their child's life in the hands of strangers. Even if we refrain from bringing nuts on the flight, there is no guarantee that another kid hasn't got peanut butter in her hair from her breakfast at home. It's an unfortunate situation, but the airlines are right not to offer these people a false sense of security and leave themselves open to liability.
19
This comment reflects deep ignorance of peanut allergy. It is very different from other types of allergies or intolerances. Please do a few quick Google searches if you are actually interested in the topic.
7
Lisa, when you face this situation in real life, are you as dismissive of other people as you have been on this thread?
8
I would pose the same question to you, "Here"! You're acting as though yours is the only valid point of view, and posting it ad nauseum, to boot.
7
Here is a strategy for a parent traveling with a peanut allergic child:
Don't raise anything before the flight is in the air. As we see in the article, the likely result of that will be that you and your child don't get to fly.
Simply casually wipe down your seating area after you get to it in the normal course of boarding. I do this with antibacterial wipes every single time I fly (just for cleanliness, not to avoid allergens – – after I read a disturbing article about how much E. coli from diaper changes is on the average tray table!). There is no need to pre-board to wipe down your seating area. Just do it once you get to the seat.
Make sure your child is wearing clothing that covers maximum skin.
Obviously, like any parent with an allergic child, you will have EpiPens with you.
If, once the plane is aloft, they announce that peanuts will be part of the snack, that is the time to ring the flight attendant to tell him or her about the allergy. At this point, the pilot will sensibly decide not to serve the peanuts rather than diverting a flight already in the air.
Why do peanuts have to be served on airplanes anyway? There are plenty of other inexpensive individually packaged snacks airlines can serve. Given the dramatic increase in the incidence of very serious peanut allergy in recent decades, it's obviously time to retire the peanut from tight communal dining quarters such as airplanes.
Don't raise anything before the flight is in the air. As we see in the article, the likely result of that will be that you and your child don't get to fly.
Simply casually wipe down your seating area after you get to it in the normal course of boarding. I do this with antibacterial wipes every single time I fly (just for cleanliness, not to avoid allergens – – after I read a disturbing article about how much E. coli from diaper changes is on the average tray table!). There is no need to pre-board to wipe down your seating area. Just do it once you get to the seat.
Make sure your child is wearing clothing that covers maximum skin.
Obviously, like any parent with an allergic child, you will have EpiPens with you.
If, once the plane is aloft, they announce that peanuts will be part of the snack, that is the time to ring the flight attendant to tell him or her about the allergy. At this point, the pilot will sensibly decide not to serve the peanuts rather than diverting a flight already in the air.
Why do peanuts have to be served on airplanes anyway? There are plenty of other inexpensive individually packaged snacks airlines can serve. Given the dramatic increase in the incidence of very serious peanut allergy in recent decades, it's obviously time to retire the peanut from tight communal dining quarters such as airplanes.
15
They may not turn back the plane, but you may get the "banned for life" letter a few days later for deceiving them.
9
That's exactly what most of us do except that we have to inform the airline ahead of time if we want any chance of actually getting into the air and the flight attendants not serving peanuts. We were bumped from an allergy-friendly airline (which we selected with great care and at great expense) onto a non-allergy friendly flight as a result of a snowstorm, and the non-allergy friendly flight captain told the flight attendants he was going to insist on serving peanuts even though the kind flight attendants took a poll of every single passenger and they all agreed to forego peanuts (our son was 3 at the time and we were just trying to get to grammy and pop-pop's for Christmas). Passengers were kind, attendants were kind, pilot was an a-hole and thus we got off the plane, with the flight attendant fighting back tears and apologizing, and we waited for 13 hours in Atlanta for a flight that was willing to take us. True story. The airline was Delta, which has since changed its policies and is now the ONLY airline we will fly.
1
What about animal allergies and airlines now allowing everyone's pet (I'm sorry emotional support animal) on board?
13
I would be in favor of limiting them. I have asthma and allergies (including not being able to eat nuts, though not reacting when someone eats them around me), and while we have a cat at home, I think it's silly how so many make up reasons in order to keep their dogs and cats in the cabin of an airplane. Animals can be a safety hazard, in addition to triggering allergies. It's one thing if someone on board needs his/her seeing eye dog; it's quite another if someone wants his/her untrained animal on board for "emotional support."
It's time to limit which animals may travel in the main cabin of airplanes!
It's time to limit which animals may travel in the main cabin of airplanes!
7
After reading some of these comments, I understand how Trump became president..
22
It is fascinating to read all the comments and to see how some people are respectful in tone, even if disagreeing, and others are not; and how some people have empathy and others do not; and how some people accept facts and others seem to disregard them, either unintentionally or deliberately. A world through a grain of sand, or perhaps a peanut, indeed.
4
Found a peanut, found a peanut, found a peanut last night ...
2
Why are you such a jerk?
1
Just as a tangential question - why are so many Americans allergic to so many foods? By a huge margin, we have the highest allergy rates in the world. We do treat food as the enemy and we're constantly looking for the next big thing to eliminate from our diets, whereas other countries embrace food as a life giving force. Also, as a social force. And they use mealtime as a quality of life time of day. I'm not doubting that these allergies exist but I'm wondering why this is the case. Despite the fact that there are so many celebrity chefs in the US and so much attention being paid to organic and locally grown food, most people still buy highly processed food and cram it down their throats while they're running around doing errands. What is the research on this?
7
The reasons we have so many allergies today is that our living conditions are too clean. Our bodies evolved for much dirtier living conditions and our immune system is not challenged enough. So it turns on us and people develop allergies.
6
Nobody knows for certain yet--despite all of the theories people have published here in the comments.
Awareness of allergies has risen, so we hear more about them than we used to. And children that might have died of their severe allergies decades ago, are now surviving in spite of them.
If it were just a simple matter of cleanliness causing the problem, then I wouldn't have any allergies! I grew up around a lot of dust bunnies and cats, and I have pretty severe allergies and asthma.
Awareness of allergies has risen, so we hear more about them than we used to. And children that might have died of their severe allergies decades ago, are now surviving in spite of them.
If it were just a simple matter of cleanliness causing the problem, then I wouldn't have any allergies! I grew up around a lot of dust bunnies and cats, and I have pretty severe allergies and asthma.
2
Hygiene hypothesis is not really where the research is going. A doctor at Stanford has done some interesting research in the area of pollution and its effect on mice genes with a two-generation delay in onset of symptoms. Dr. Kari Nadeau. Check it out.
“I said, ‘We have our medicine. We brought our own food, and we’re comfortable staying on the plane.’ I offered to sign a waiver,” said Dr. Bloom, an orthodontist from Clarksville, Md.
-----------------
If you've got your medicine and your own food and you're comfortable staying on the flight why did you even mention it in the first place ??? Some people just love to hear themselves talk (too much) - just another case of a TYPICAL whiner wanting attention for her family (and probably to tout the fact she is a doctor), etc. Oh the poor Blooms, how will they ever cope with flying and peanuts on their way to the Turks and Caicos to spend their millions.
-----------------
If you've got your medicine and your own food and you're comfortable staying on the flight why did you even mention it in the first place ??? Some people just love to hear themselves talk (too much) - just another case of a TYPICAL whiner wanting attention for her family (and probably to tout the fact she is a doctor), etc. Oh the poor Blooms, how will they ever cope with flying and peanuts on their way to the Turks and Caicos to spend their millions.
17
First, I understand both points of view here, but if the accommodation (within reason) of a person with a severe nut allergy is easy, why not make it? This is a kind, considerate thing to do.
Secondly, I have a fairly severe allergic reaction to cats (asthma attacks) which has landed me in an ER on various occasions. An inhaler doesn't always suffice. Proximity to the cat and length of exposure make a difference. But I ask, why should one passenger's "right" to fly with his cat outweigh my "right" to fly without cats on board? I would argue my health risks are of greater concern than the loss of a service cat. (Though I don't know enough about the benefits they provide.)
Secondly, I have a fairly severe allergic reaction to cats (asthma attacks) which has landed me in an ER on various occasions. An inhaler doesn't always suffice. Proximity to the cat and length of exposure make a difference. But I ask, why should one passenger's "right" to fly with his cat outweigh my "right" to fly without cats on board? I would argue my health risks are of greater concern than the loss of a service cat. (Though I don't know enough about the benefits they provide.)
11
Good point. Maybe the second American Revolution will be fought over peanuts and emotional support animals on airplanes. Why not?
2
If you have your own food and medicine, why did you even mention the nut allergy in the first place? Max and Jacob have once again been shielded from the big bad world while their parents have to find more ways to protect them. Soon they will run out of safe places. No wonder we have a society of litigious whiners who constantly need attention, everyone else doesn't matter.
16
Something tells me the teachers and executives from their schools would have some interesting anecdotes to tell after a drink or two.
11
>“American Airlines’ action was clearly discriminatory,” said FARE’s chief executive officer and chief medical officer, Dr. James Baker Jr.<
Yeah, everything is clearly discriminatory, isn't it?
Yeah, everything is clearly discriminatory, isn't it?
10
Simple solution: airlines stop serving peanuts and ask passengers when they buy their tickets not bring any along. What is it with the peanuts that some people can't live without them when they fly. Sheesh. I can see it being part of the experience at a baseball game, but what the heck does it have to do with flying? And those nuts they serve are oily and super salty, probably one of the unhealthiest snacks you can serve anyone. So let's just cut them out and stop the madness.
6
Feel free to cut out what has no value to you, but don't dictate and sneer to the rest of us.
Perhaps what you are reading in these comments is the result of a couple of decades of sanctimonious, unilateral demands by entitled parents that the way be paved for them and their offspring, everyone else's desires be darned. We've had it.
Perhaps what you are reading in these comments is the result of a couple of decades of sanctimonious, unilateral demands by entitled parents that the way be paved for them and their offspring, everyone else's desires be darned. We've had it.
14
Sad to see so many ignorant, hateful comments about allergy sufferers. On a Delta flight I took recently, an announcement was made that because a passenger was allergic to peanuts, none would be served.
Nobody minded.
Nobody minded.
15
How in the world did you know what everyone was thinking?
11
Some perspective: The fatality rate from confirmed anaphylaxis is well under 1 per million per year, in the USA. (see https://www.aaaai.org/global/latest-research-summaries/Current-JACI-Rese...
This is not for peanut allergies, or even all food allergies, but for ALL ALLERGIES combined.
That's right, allergies to milk, cats, bee stings, peanuts, math homework, and everything else kills fewer than 1 in a million people each year.
So it's pretty safe to assume that the chances of dying from sitting next to a peanut on a commercial flight are approximately zero.
It's a far more reasonable explanation that these people were kicked off the flight for being nuts, rather than being allergic to them.
This is not for peanut allergies, or even all food allergies, but for ALL ALLERGIES combined.
That's right, allergies to milk, cats, bee stings, peanuts, math homework, and everything else kills fewer than 1 in a million people each year.
So it's pretty safe to assume that the chances of dying from sitting next to a peanut on a commercial flight are approximately zero.
It's a far more reasonable explanation that these people were kicked off the flight for being nuts, rather than being allergic to them.
13
Deaths from anaphylaxis might be rare but the actual incidence of anaphylaxis is more common than you think. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency and the person has to go to ER even after Epi pen administration. So people are trying to avoid having anaphylaxis as much as possible.
12
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control reported that food allergies result in more than 300,000 ambulatory-care visits a year among children under the age of 18. Food allergy is the leading cause of anaphylaxis outside the hospital setting.
So, maybe not a lot are dying because they're being saved by going to the hospital.
That said, how many dead people meet your threshold of "enough" to care about?
So, maybe not a lot are dying because they're being saved by going to the hospital.
That said, how many dead people meet your threshold of "enough" to care about?
Dear reporter: Please go to FoodAllergy.org and download their most recent IRS Form 990. Look on page 1, line 22: Net Assets. $57.1M That's what the whole thing is worth. Now look on Schedule D Page 3 (pg 31 in the pdf) under Investments. Their one and only investment is $47.5M worth of AIMT stock!
So what does AIMT make? "desensitization treatments for peanut and other food allergies" (yahoo fiance profile)
The "nonprofit" that is hyping this food allergy hysteria has a direct financial interest in it. They are out to convince people their precious kids have a terrible illness so the company they own can sell snake oil cures for it.
You are being played. Please be less gullible.
Some suggested background questions for your next article:
How many children actually die each year from verified case of one of these "life threatening" food allergies? How many cases of Emergency Room Verified cases of anaphylactic shock are there from food allergies?
Please compare this with known actual problems such as pediatric fatalities from cancers, sports injuries, fire arms, ordinary choking and automobile accidents.
If it's a real medical thing, it should be easy to prove with the numbers.
But if you find there are 10 million hysterical parents and almost zero dead kids, then there is an entirely different kind of epidemic going on.
So what does AIMT make? "desensitization treatments for peanut and other food allergies" (yahoo fiance profile)
The "nonprofit" that is hyping this food allergy hysteria has a direct financial interest in it. They are out to convince people their precious kids have a terrible illness so the company they own can sell snake oil cures for it.
You are being played. Please be less gullible.
Some suggested background questions for your next article:
How many children actually die each year from verified case of one of these "life threatening" food allergies? How many cases of Emergency Room Verified cases of anaphylactic shock are there from food allergies?
Please compare this with known actual problems such as pediatric fatalities from cancers, sports injuries, fire arms, ordinary choking and automobile accidents.
If it's a real medical thing, it should be easy to prove with the numbers.
But if you find there are 10 million hysterical parents and almost zero dead kids, then there is an entirely different kind of epidemic going on.
12
If you sneeze every time you hear Trump speak, does that count as a nut allergy?
31
I'm sick and tired of people's real or imagines allergies. People have all kids of medical issues and they are expected to look after themselves without burdening everyone around them. I've travelled next to people with COPD and their oxygen tanks and were not complaining about anything or demanding anything. I have an autistic child but don't expect everyone else around me to pitch in to parent him during the flight. Enough already.
17
What if the airline told you that you couldn't bring your son on board because they couldn't guarantee other passengers would be ok with having him possibly make noise or be disruptive? What if your son needed to get settled in his seat before everyone else but the airline wouldn't let you because it was unfair to the other passengers? Wouldn't you then yearn to understand why the other passengers weren't willing to allow you a small accommodation for your son's comfort? What if the accommodation meant your son might avoid a catastrophic medical event? What if the airline and the other passengers told you, really, you should just drive everywhere....?
I am sick to death of people whining about allergies. If you are allergic to some common thing like perfume or peanuts, do NOT inflict your problem on me. Stay away from me. In the case of airline travel, take a train. I like peanuts and perfume. I am not responsible for every problem of every person who come into contact with me.
9
Take a train across an ocean? Really? One of the families mentioned in this article is military and they were in Turkey. How are they supposed to get home?
7
How did they get there to begin with?
7
With all the snack foods available, why do the airlines continue to hand out nuts as snacks?
10
Why bother even handing out any of their pathetic snacks in the first place?
7
I will happily never eat a peanut or anything peanut-related within 1000 feet of an airplane ever again if you keep your stupid fake therapy/comfort pets off the planes. Legitimate service animals for the disabled or impaired are one thing — they're trained, they're smart, they're quiet and they're working, and people need them. But I am disgusted by privileged, selfish people who get fake certificates and demand that we all accommodate their special princess pet. Leave it at home or drive.
34
The food allergy business is booming and a multi-million dollar one at that. As I am almost half a century old, I guess I should be amazed that any children made it out of childhood in the last dozen decades or so considering peanuts are so lethal. People have to manage their illness or issues - it is not the public's responsibility to make accommodations for food allergies. I cannot buy peanuts by the pound in my local market any longer. Some neurotic parent complained and I am now forced to pay more for packaged peanuts. Why didn't she just keep her kid out of the store or the area where the peanuts are ? I mean where does it stop - neighborhoods can no longer have trees because little Johnny is alllergic to sap, no one can wear cotton clothing in a classroom because little Jane will break out in hives, shoe departments can no longer sell leather shoes because they cause Suzie to sneeze.....I understand there are rare instances where someone can suffer a life-threatening allergy attack. But as a child, I was very allergic to many things. I underwent a few years of shoots until I built up resistance.... case closed. And my mother would NEVER expect my allergies to inconvenience anyone ....I think these neurotic demanding parents need a reality check.
17
Looks like 50% of the Times readers are allergic.
And about 0.000000001% of the rest of the US.
Coincidence?
And about 0.000000001% of the rest of the US.
Coincidence?
9
Actually, it's about 8% of kids in the U.S. who have food allergies (https://www.foodallergy.org/facts-and-stats). But hey, facts don't matter, right?
8
So these people don't go anywhere because there might be peanut dust.
They don't go into a food market, or a movie theater, or a bar or restaurant? What if they sit next to someone on a bus or subway who has peanut dust on his clothes? How come it's almost always affluent white people who have peanut allergies and need special handling? I never see a news story about any other demographic whining about peanut allergies
They don't go into a food market, or a movie theater, or a bar or restaurant? What if they sit next to someone on a bus or subway who has peanut dust on his clothes? How come it's almost always affluent white people who have peanut allergies and need special handling? I never see a news story about any other demographic whining about peanut allergies
10
It's because you need to go to the hospital after needing an epi pen -not possible in the air
2
The reason you seem to think it's only "affluent white people" who have peanut allergies is that people with no or poor health insurance can't go to an allergist or competent doctor to explain to them why Johnny gets hives and throws up and has throat swelling every time he goes over to grandma's house for a snack. My friend who is a pediatrician in a largely impoverished county has many patients whose parents reject the notion that their child has a food allergy and refuse to pay for or carry Epi-pens. Not only do they reject the diagnosis, in doing so they are self-selecting out of the conversation about food allergies and are therefore not going to be the ones advocating on the topic. It's hard to tell a mother who can barely put food on the table that she has to start reading labels, making food from scratch, and paying hundreds of dollars out of pocket for life saving medication. It's easier to be in denial.
1
Dear Parents of Children with Severe Nut Allergies:
I know you love your children and want to protect them.
Please consider having them desensitized so that this risk is largely ameliorated.
Doesn't it make more sense than expecting the rest of the world to change?
Your kids will thank you. Your fellow travelers will too.
I know you love your children and want to protect them.
Please consider having them desensitized so that this risk is largely ameliorated.
Doesn't it make more sense than expecting the rest of the world to change?
Your kids will thank you. Your fellow travelers will too.
6
Not everyone is eligible for desensitization and it could take years to complete the therapy. Not to mention it is not FDA approved yet. So it is not as simple as you think.
10
Actually, it doesn't take years, just months (4-12 per allergen) and it is actually more available than you think; see www.oit101.org for a list of 80 (and growing) allergists doing OIT in private practice right now. It does not need FDA approval; the FDA does not approve protocols just drugs. It uses foods (peanut flour, nut flour etc) so does not require an FDA approved drug. That's not stopping Aimmune from making a drug, which will cost $5,500, seeking FDA approval. But OIT that costs just, well, peanuts, is available now.
3
Just flew on Delta, and was surprised when the pilot announced that "no nuts would be served due to passenger with nut allergy was on board"... Then my wife told me "NO dinner for you".... But I was pleased they took the effort to accommodate the person. As a retired firefighter/EMT I know what the result could be, I have seen it and it is scary for all concerned.
23
Some of us are boycotting Delta because of the way they treated a supporter of our President, President Trump.
1
Are peanuts really necessary...why not just switch to pretzels? I've never heard of a pretzel allergy.
7
It's known as celiac disease.
1
What about wheat allergies? There are lots of people with wheat allergies.
1
the gluten people.
1
Delta does a good job with peanut-allergic-people (PAP), a least on my flight over Christmas to SLC from PDX. We were told we had PAPs on board and were asked to refrain from eating peanuts. A reasonable request. Now, an incontinent pot-belly pig "service animal?" as carry-on?
8
Yet to see anyone with a severe nut allergy that wasn't an upper class white person.
13
There was a young African American girl who died at a Virginia elementary school a few years ago when she ingested peanuts. You are ill-informed.
15
I travel pretty often by Greyhound bus. The chances of exposure to a food allergen on a long-distance bus should be very high (very long travel times and lots of food brought on board, plus minimal cleaning.) Drivers sometimes request that passengers refrain from spraying perfumes because of asthma, etc, but I've never heard anything said about food allergies. I did some googling and could not find any reported instances of a food allergy reaction occurring on a long-distance bus, nor of bus companies instituting policies about restricting foods. Reports of such issues on airplanes abound. What's the difference? Passenger demographics.
10
Nope - it's just less of a problem because it is possible to get someone on a Greyhound bus to a hospital much more quickly than it is to get someone on a transatlantic flight.
13
Take a look at that picture of the Bloom family. The husband and kids are in shirtsleeves, even shorts. But mom is wearing a long down parka, hat & gloves.
Maybe this has less to do with peanut allergies than it does with an over-protective mother who doesn't like to let go.
Maybe this has less to do with peanut allergies than it does with an over-protective mother who doesn't like to let go.
16
That would fit your preferred narrative, sure. But helicopter parenting does not cause allergies (though allergies can lead to helicopter parenting, in some cases--especially when other people in the allergic child's life don't take his/her allergies seriously).
8
Bad science should not be allowed to overrule common sense. This is paranoia by a handful of lunatics.
5
I always thought that preboarding elderly, disabled, families with kids was a great idea. But pre-boarding so that an allergic person can decontaminate their seat/armrest/table. How does that slow the boarding process for everyone else? It doesn't. I spent 2 years on an immune suppressing drug. I flew. I got out my sanitizing wipes after I sat down, and did my thing. No big deal. Nope...I think folks making a big deal out of this are just being whiny. At least maybe the airline can offer them some cheese with the whine.
9
It's part of the same syndrome. They want recognition for their special snowflake trophy children. Preboard, right this way. Control the food intake of 200 other people, shows how special their sweetums is. Were I sweetums' teacher, I'd cc the district lawyer on all correspondence from the helicopter parents.
13
I don't want special recognition. I am embarrassed about asking for special treatment and embarrassed for my son that people look at him and think there's something wrong with him. If I could slink on and off an airplane without mentioning his peanut allergy to anyone, I would. I just want to get him to visit his grandparents 3,000 miles away without taking a week to drive there. Believe me, if I could give my right arm to get rid of my child's anaphylaxis, I would do it in a split second. I think you are misinformed about this issue. In fact, I would give literally anything to rid my son of his food allergies. Thanks for listening.
1
So let's inconvenience 200 ppl because someone has a nut issue.
Doesn't add up. That person should change plans, not force others to.
Not perfect, but pretty clear?
Doesn't add up. That person should change plans, not force others to.
Not perfect, but pretty clear?
17
Talk about selfish... Someone's life, vs. your inconvenience. Think about that.
7
I find it unbelievable that people seem to fidn it normal that airlines and restaurants have to cater to their extremely specific needs. There are many allergies of all kinds that humans are susceptible to - peas, peanuts, gluten, beans, tofu, milk, nuts, dust, cat hair - whatever. Where is the limit to what others have to account for?
Is it really so much trouble to bring your own (nut free) snacks on board?
Heck, I often even bring my own sandwiches these days made with organic bread when I have time, becuase I preferit. Is carrying a bag of pretzels gonna
kill you?
YOU are respnsible for what you eat and your own health conditons, not the airline or the restaurant owners.
Is it really so much trouble to bring your own (nut free) snacks on board?
Heck, I often even bring my own sandwiches these days made with organic bread when I have time, becuase I preferit. Is carrying a bag of pretzels gonna
kill you?
YOU are respnsible for what you eat and your own health conditons, not the airline or the restaurant owners.
9
You don't understand about peanut allergies -- for some people, simply smelling the peanuts may trigger an attack that could be fatal. The passenger with the allergy could do everything right and take all the necessary precautions but if peanuts are consumed in front or behind or several rows away, the passenger could still be affected. It's up to the airlines to ensure this doesn't happen. But this new policy suggests the airlines couldn't care less.
8
Look, if we REALLY want to shake things up, we need to concoct a HFCS (High Fructose Corn Syrup) allergy problem related to celiac and nut poison. Now, that will really get the attention of the despicable people who load nearly everything with corn syrup.
5
Regarding pre-boarding, I didn't see this in the article but these families could pay a bit more to pre-board with some airlines and with others, if you fly often enough, you get it as a perk of your frequent flyer miles or credit card.
2
Air travel is a privilege not a right. If you choose to ride you take it as it comes. Sorry, it's like going to a baseball game. If you get hit by a batted ball you have no recourse. It even says that on the ticket.
10
More hysteria crafted to draw attention to pitiful narcissists. Why should everyone have to sacrifice even such a small amenity as nuts to accommodate such nonsense? This time nuts, next time something else. Next time, stay home or drive to Disneyworld.
11
This has nothing to do with "pitiful narcissists"! This is a matter of basic health and science: people with nut allergies can be affected by someone else's perfectly normal behavior of eating peanuts several rows away in a plane. The mere smell of peanuts can trigger a fatal attack. All we are asking is that airlines substitute another non-allergy snack and allow passengers to take basic health precautions.
10
Those basic health precautions would include staying out of sealed tubes at 38,000 feet, it seems to me (and most commenters here.)
Problem solved without imposing on anyone else.
Problem solved without imposing on anyone else.
10
David, seems to me that carries a big risk to the kid. The parents are betting their kid's life that the guy in 13F with his headphones who speaks only Spanish doesn't pull out a bag of peanuts and start munching.
8
No one with that severe an allergy to a common substance should put themselves in jeopardy -- or expect the world to stop and accommodate them.
13
Do these people never attend a sporting event, movie, or theater?
5
Yes - but if I'm at a stadium, I can be in an ambulance in minutes and at a hospital fast enough that I won't die (and this is after I use an Epi-Pen or 2). Much harder to get medical help at 50,000 feet.
10
Wow, just, wow. All I can say is that Karma, well, she has a way of catching up with you. So with the incidence of food allergies doubling every 5 years and still no cure, I'd say that the majority of the "haters" will be eating their words in the not so distant future. Just Sayin'. Pun intended.
8
And then choking on them, I hope! *grins*
Does anyone read the articles attached so cleverly to the headline?
Geez, get a clue.
The family had their own food and medications. They weren't going to go into allergic shock.
But apparently some of the commenters here have.
Geez, get a clue.
The family had their own food and medications. They weren't going to go into allergic shock.
But apparently some of the commenters here have.
5
This is absurd. There is absolutely no right to peanuts on an airplane, and with the number of folks who are allergic these days I think all airlines should just find something else cheap to serve. I am not allergic, but I do bring my own snacks.
24
There is also no "right" to dictate what everyone else around you is allowed to eat or carry.
12
That's hardly the point, Susan. The point is that they are trying to shift the responsibility and consequences for a personal issue to the airlines and the public at large. And as you can see, most of us aren't interested in taking on that burden. Especially at 38,000 feet.
Find alternative transportation.
Find alternative transportation.
12
Um, the TSA already compels us to leave many things out of our bags that we'd like to take with us.
5
What if the passenger with the peanut allergy is unknowingly also allergic to the ferret, a comfort animal, in the lap of a passenger 2 rows away? Have we reached the limit of peccadilloes demanded by the 'me' generation?
21
The food allergy is life threatening. That is the difference. Your ignorance and lack of empathy is showing.
11
I assume that you are referring to yourself as the "me" generation? How selfish of you to be unwilling to not be served nuts because a child on your flight has a life-threatening allergy to nuts. What is the matter with you!
8
So is it fair that one person's allergy problems trumps the welfare and conveyance of several hundred other passengers? Makes no sense to me.
26
Some people have limited options to fly long distances for things like death of a family member, etc. Why should they be severely inconvenienced from arriving at their destination because someone wanted to eat peanuts or doesn't want to allow passengers to board first. We're not talking about starving passengers because there are no other foods other than peanuts. This is petty and selfish. If someone had a heart attack and your flights was delayed because it had to be diverted, would you complain? They are both life threatening medical conditions that people have no control over.
2
I like peanuts fine, but I don't NEED them on any given flight. It doesn't hurt my welfare if nuts aren't served.
12
"Trump and the welfare and conveyance of several hundred other passengers"?
Do you mean by not serving nuts or by allowing an affected family to pre-board to wipe down their seat area?
Is that asking too big an accommodation in your view?
Do you mean by not serving nuts or by allowing an affected family to pre-board to wipe down their seat area?
Is that asking too big an accommodation in your view?
10
It's time to take these kinds of decisions away from pilots. In my own experience and anecdotally from news reports and numerous flight attendants who see them everyday pilots seem to be kinda nutty people in greater percentages than you would want flying airplanes.
10
Airline employees seem to take all of the stress of their jobs out on passengers who don't do as they're commanded, nowadays. I try not to fly at all, because it's such an unpleasant experience.
6
How did so many people all of a sudden become allergic to nuts? As a child and young adult in school, I never once encountered any person with a nut allergy. Actually, I am almost 70 and it wasn't until 15 or so years ago that even heard that there were children with nut allergies. I don't understand how a phenomenon like that develops so quickly.
18
It is obviously real, as severe anaphalyctic shock is difficult to fake.
As to why? Excessive hygiene (we no longer come into contact with small amounts of micro-organisms and bacteria) and changed food habits (we eat a lot of processed foods) have been discussed.
Given how much we have changed our lives generation to generation I don't get why people are surprised.
As to why? Excessive hygiene (we no longer come into contact with small amounts of micro-organisms and bacteria) and changed food habits (we eat a lot of processed foods) have been discussed.
Given how much we have changed our lives generation to generation I don't get why people are surprised.
6
Social media and TV....
1
My daughter developed a peanut allergy when she was 20, and I can assure you she ate a varied diet from early childhood and I an not obsessively neat or a germaphobe. My mother in law developed a potentially lethal shellfish allergy in her late 50s. I developed a penicillin allergy at 34.
Anaphylaxis is not psychogenic. Get over yourself, it could happen to you or someone you know.
Anaphylaxis is not psychogenic. Get over yourself, it could happen to you or someone you know.
9
Second comment since the first seemed to offend some sensibility of the monitors.
What about those odious perfumes that stink, cause allergic reactions. Why does anyone have to be subjected to them?
What about those odious perfumes that stink, cause allergic reactions. Why does anyone have to be subjected to them?
18
Oh, come on. Why not just put on a Hazmat suit and live odor free, free of "inconvenience" touch-free and interactive-free? You're out with people who also live in the world. Part of the deal is that there will be inconveniences and things/people you don't like. It's called humanity and humanity is not there to serve your particular likes or dislikes. This reminds me of when I took a tour of Mexico City with a busful of Americans. We stopped for some delicious Mexican food which was highly spiced, deliciously prepared and served with pride. Two women next to us said, "This isn't anything like Chicago!" They were miserable. That was the predominant attitude on the bus, "I want it my way!!!!!!" Maybe you should think about the purpose of perfume and enjoy indulging your senses in this most unsensual culture. It's called graciousness.
2
Perfume won't kill you. Irritation is different than death. Seems obvious
2
I have yet to smell anyone else's cologne on an airplane, and I invariably am stationed in the sardine can to the rear of the plane.
Maybe you have had particularly bad luck in that area. Either that, or you are a "super sniffer."
If I had your problem, I would bring along a high-grade surgical mask. People give you lots of room on a flight if you are wearing a surgical mask I have noticed. If you combine the mask with an eye shade and noise-canceling headphones, you're home free.
Maybe you have had particularly bad luck in that area. Either that, or you are a "super sniffer."
If I had your problem, I would bring along a high-grade surgical mask. People give you lots of room on a flight if you are wearing a surgical mask I have noticed. If you combine the mask with an eye shade and noise-canceling headphones, you're home free.
4
I remember a time when flying in the u.s. want a god unlawful experience. We weren't forced into long lines to get photographed nude and then forced into a sardine can.
Break up the airline companies to bring back some competition. Force the major airports to not have more than 20℅ of their gates for any single airline. Etc...
Back when it wasn't painful to fly, I didn't mind people getting privileges. That kid flying with their parent was cute. Now I look at the kid as a loud crying snot who I'm subsidizing with my full fare. That obese dude who would have fit in a seat unfussed a few years ago I look at and think, oh go buy 2 seats.
Comments in this article just represent the above situation. Cattle class is forced into a 0 sum game where one person's gain is everybody else's lost. I assure you the outcome of any regulation wont be early boarding. It will be no food or water on board. People with allergies must wear plastic body bags and inhalers etc...
Break up the airline companies to bring back some competition. Force the major airports to not have more than 20℅ of their gates for any single airline. Etc...
Back when it wasn't painful to fly, I didn't mind people getting privileges. That kid flying with their parent was cute. Now I look at the kid as a loud crying snot who I'm subsidizing with my full fare. That obese dude who would have fit in a seat unfussed a few years ago I look at and think, oh go buy 2 seats.
Comments in this article just represent the above situation. Cattle class is forced into a 0 sum game where one person's gain is everybody else's lost. I assure you the outcome of any regulation wont be early boarding. It will be no food or water on board. People with allergies must wear plastic body bags and inhalers etc...
14
Flying was much more expensive in the good old days.
4
Inhalers don't do anything for food allergy reactions, FYI. Just a minor point to respond to your incoherent diatribe.
I am sorry, but reading some of these comments saddens and angers me. It really is not much of a sacrifice to NOT serve or eat nuts for a few hours. For some of these individuals and families, they have to deal with these life threatening allergies daily. It is no treat. And the solution is NOT to stay home as some of you suggest. Our world needs more compassion and not less. I applaud those airlines who are willing to make accommodations.
66
The solution IS to stay at home, as I suggest.
Or make alternative plans, such as driving in a personal vehicle.
Or make alternative plans, such as driving in a personal vehicle.
4
Do you find yourself wondering if all of these people actually eat peanuts every day? I don't, and I'm not allergic to them. I just don't eat them every day...so I'm hardly going to miss them terribly if they aren't on an airplane one day.
1
I have a cat allergy and was ordered to leave a Southwest flight when I mentioned it to the flight attendant after noticing a woman boarding the plane with a cat. I offered to sit in a different area of the plane but the crew ordered both me and my handicapped husband off the plane. This was at a connection so we had to spend the night in Denver waiting for another flight. We continued on another Southwest flight the next morning. For all I know, the second plane contained a dozen cats.
Later after I wrote a letter, I received an apology and a free flight. I know now never to complain about anything--at least until the flight is well underway.
Later after I wrote a letter, I received an apology and a free flight. I know now never to complain about anything--at least until the flight is well underway.
16
The airline cannot control what other passengers do. Any of the other 100-300 passengers could come aboard with peanut contamination. Contact could occur walking down the isle, visiting the toilet, handling a magazine or blanket.
The simple fact is the person has a medical condition that when crammed in a metal tube with 100s of other strangers becomes a liability.
The simple fact is the person has a medical condition that when crammed in a metal tube with 100s of other strangers becomes a liability.
13
I often bring food on airplanes, including nuts since I have low blood sugar at times and my doctor has recommended carrying nuts. And they are good, healthful snacks. I do not care to be threatened, "buffer zoned", or otherwise because families think little sweetums takes priority over everyone else.
20
What a dismissive view you take of people with genuine life-threatening allergies! I work at a small school where twice last year an ambulance was called because a child was going into anaphylactic shock from exposure to an allergen. You are not threatened; they are--by selfish, thoughtless souls like yourself.
2
Actually a life threatening reaction would take precedent over non-medical hypoglycemia. The only really dangerous hypoglycemia would occur in a diabetic taking prescription medications, in which case, the treatment would be glucose, not nuts. You are the one who feels your convenience is more important than the health of others.
4
to accuse families "think little sweetums takes priority over everyone else" is extremely judgmental. That's like me saying that because you are diabetic/hypoglycemic, you must be an obese smoker who drinks a little too much and most likely a burden to the health care system....
4
I have a horrible, albeit not life threatening, allergy to dogs. I have literally sat in airplane seats and had a reaction to what was probably a comfort animal on a previous flight. Had to have a coat express dry cleaned once to be able to wear it on a vacation. Didn't sue anyone. Peanut allergies seem to vary widely in intensity, meaning it is lose lose for the airlines. Your kid might die? Take the damn bus.
27
People eat peanuts on the bus too. Even worse on Greyhound.
1
Having a bad experience as you did often makes people more compassionate and accommodating.
I always wonder why demands for nut-free areas so often are made of airlines and school cafeterias. Why don't people with nut allergies demand routine sweeps of city buses, subways, and other forms of public transportation to make sure someone isn't indiscriminately putting others at danger with an errant Reese's Peanut Butter Cup? Or how about hotel lobbies, mall food courts, and restaurants for crying out loud? Maybe because airlines and public school officials are much more easily pushed around? Although I imagine if people with nut allergies could figure out ways to eradicate nuts from the entirety of the public sphere they would. Let the rest of us eat nut-free cake.
18
It's about the tightness of certain types of communal dining quarters. Obviously.
3
Um... In a restaurant or bus, the ambulance is there in 4 minutes. In a plane, the ambulance cannot fly.
The article states that American does not serve peanuts, but they have served a mixed nuts snack in Business and First for years.
No wonder the pilot bounced the people who alerted him to a nut allergy off his airplane. If he diverts due to a medical emergency, the airline lists the charges for the extra jet fuel consumed on that pilot's record. Conflict of interest? Sad!
A couple years ago I was flying back from Tokyo on American, in Business. They served a plain white dinner roll as part of the meal...the same kind of plain you've had in restaurants a thousand times. Except that this roll was full of cashews on its inside.
I had inadvertently packed my epic-pen in my checked bag. As usual, the cabin crew was clueless as to what was in the food. They had an epinephrine kit on board but were nor permitted to administer. They called on the PA in case a doctor or nurse was aboard. Nobody responded.
Just by luck, I had taken a lot of benadryl as a sleeping aid before a long flight. The benadryl shut down my rapidly accelerating anaphylactic reaction. Were it not for that stroke of fortune, I wouldn't be sitting here writing this comment now.
It's time for American and the other airlines step up and solve this problem on behalf of their many customers with life-threatening nut allergies.
No wonder the pilot bounced the people who alerted him to a nut allergy off his airplane. If he diverts due to a medical emergency, the airline lists the charges for the extra jet fuel consumed on that pilot's record. Conflict of interest? Sad!
A couple years ago I was flying back from Tokyo on American, in Business. They served a plain white dinner roll as part of the meal...the same kind of plain you've had in restaurants a thousand times. Except that this roll was full of cashews on its inside.
I had inadvertently packed my epic-pen in my checked bag. As usual, the cabin crew was clueless as to what was in the food. They had an epinephrine kit on board but were nor permitted to administer. They called on the PA in case a doctor or nurse was aboard. Nobody responded.
Just by luck, I had taken a lot of benadryl as a sleeping aid before a long flight. The benadryl shut down my rapidly accelerating anaphylactic reaction. Were it not for that stroke of fortune, I wouldn't be sitting here writing this comment now.
It's time for American and the other airlines step up and solve this problem on behalf of their many customers with life-threatening nut allergies.
20
Or maybe time for you to be more careful with your epipen & to inspect food before you bite into it.
10
Everyone is allergic to something. Can perfume be banned from flights? Maybe senior citizens should be banned- they have a higher risk of medical emergencies.
Allergy sufferers are responsible for their own health and need to stop expecting the world to cater to them.
Allergy sufferers are responsible for their own health and need to stop expecting the world to cater to them.
16
I repeat for those that don't get it - a food allergy can be life threatening. An allergy to cats or perfume is generally not.
7
so you would be ok with smoking on planes then? and in public places? what if I told you that you should stop expecting the world to cater to you and you should be responsible for your own health and prevent exposure to carcinogens rather than restrict my right to smoke anywhere and everywhere I want?
2
Same thing with people who get measles or mumps! Why should I have to get a shot just to protect you and your kids?
Sink or swim, folks. It's every man for himself.
Sink or swim, folks. It's every man for himself.
2
I don't know why my child was born with numerous and lethal food allergies. I'd like to blame myself because at least I'd have a reason for her lifelong struggle. I do know it's becoming more common and we try to make her feel "normal." I don't tell the airlines (only restaurants when I order) but I watch like a hawk. I don't have an answer except I come prepared with meds and food. I do know that we have been denied service at numerous restaurants and this has restricted travel and made some days very long (and my child very sad). I appreciate the empathy (not sympathy) of others and the efforts to welcome her. I hope that the airlines and restaurants can get past the fear of being sued and come up with a plan. We are not making this up. This isn't a "sensitivity" or "food choice." This is real. We have learned the hard way that this is life threatening.
23
Don't fly with your kid. Her life does not depend on it and you cannot control the behavior or food intake of 200 other people nor should you.
6
And many of us wonder why on earth you would insist on putting your child in a life-threatening situation.
Surely there are plenty of ways to lead a rich and fulfilling life without restaurants and planes.
Surely there are plenty of ways to lead a rich and fulfilling life without restaurants and planes.
9
Oh - like riding in a car? It's the most common way that kids in the US die, but people do it every day because they have to.
7
So why mention it or why risk traveling if the allergy is so dangerous (and I would never doubt that it is). But no one can guarantee that each plane is a sterile environment or that other passengers haven't been contaminated before they boarded.
15
Can you imagine if a kid died on a AA flight because she came into contact with stray nuts dropped by another passenger? The public and the media would have a field day with it, and there's a good chance AA would get sued for millions of dollars, even if they weren't at fault. It's no surprise they would rather just have that kid not get in the plane. Who wants to take on that kind of liability.
It would be nice to live in a world where reasonable people can do reasonable things, and maybe even make reasonable mistakes, without getting their pants sued off.
www.outlookzen.com
It would be nice to live in a world where reasonable people can do reasonable things, and maybe even make reasonable mistakes, without getting their pants sued off.
www.outlookzen.com
18
The vast majority of places can be reached by ground transportation, especially personal vehicles. They could and should be utilized by allergy sufferers. It's not up to strangers to make their lives more convenient, or for these strangers to be inconvenienced by airline policies and practices.
12
What about someone who has to fly due to a family emergency or flying to another country like the serviceman's family? We used to live in a society where people wanted to help other people. Now it's just, me, me, me. I'm inconvenienced by not having access to peanuts or that someone gets to board ahead of time. I hope someone has more compassion for you when your in a vulnerable medical condition.
3
right...and i should be able to blow cigarette smoke into your face just because we are in a public place and you- a total stranger to me- should not in anyway inconvenience me...
5
Spot on, Matt.
Very few people "need" to fly.
Very few people "need" to fly.
2
On the one hand, banning a family that is willing to sign a waiver and who brought their own food seems draconian. On the other hand, if the children really did have severe nut allergies and there was a high probability that one of them could go into anaphylactic shock and cause the plane to be diverted, well, that is an incredible liability not just for the airline but for every single passenger on the plane--not to mention countless other passengers affected by the messed up schedule. There is no way to guarantee a peanut-free plane, so the danger is there. It would be good if the airlines tried to be as accommodating as they can be by allowing these families to wipe down their space and not offer them peanuts, but on the other hand, let's hope that people with severe peanut allergies stay mindful of how likely they are to have a severe attack if they come in contact with a peanut, and be mindful about how that might affect other people, too.
11
It appears that you believe that being inconvenienced just a bit trumps another person's right to perhaps saving their child's life. They should think about you?
6
Kathleen's logic is of the sort that has today's parents literally push old people out of their way so they can retain eye contact with sweetums.
3
Who are these fellow citizens of mine, for whom enjoying a snack is with someone else's life?
The denial that peanut allergy is real, or the belief that it represents oversesitivity on the part of the allergic person, creates a danger to those already dealing with a potentially life threatening problem. Politicizing or diminishing the threat may cause some people to behave more thoughtlessly or carelessly than they otherwise might.
It greatly saddens me that so many of my fellow citizens cannot forgo one particular snack out of regard for another person's life. I would never put another person's life in peril because I wanted a particular food on an airplane. Could any meal be worth sending someone to the hospital? Please. Talk about selfish disregard for others.
When I sit in traffic at a car accident, I do not curse the driver for causing me inconvenience. I think, boy, am I lucky. If you do not have a life-threatening allergy, be thankful. If you do, please sit beside me on the plane. I will happily do what I can to make your journey safer.
The denial that peanut allergy is real, or the belief that it represents oversesitivity on the part of the allergic person, creates a danger to those already dealing with a potentially life threatening problem. Politicizing or diminishing the threat may cause some people to behave more thoughtlessly or carelessly than they otherwise might.
It greatly saddens me that so many of my fellow citizens cannot forgo one particular snack out of regard for another person's life. I would never put another person's life in peril because I wanted a particular food on an airplane. Could any meal be worth sending someone to the hospital? Please. Talk about selfish disregard for others.
When I sit in traffic at a car accident, I do not curse the driver for causing me inconvenience. I think, boy, am I lucky. If you do not have a life-threatening allergy, be thankful. If you do, please sit beside me on the plane. I will happily do what I can to make your journey safer.
28
Possibly one solution is for the parents to buy snacks for everyone on the airplane who bought peanuts. But I think it's really about control and forcing people to recognize and bow and scrape before their little sweetums.
1
Really? I do resent the careless fools who cause accidents and inconvenience the rest of us. The vast majority are due to in attention and negligence.
1
I think the point here is that a "nut ban" gives the illusion of safety, without actually making it safer. An airplane is a public conveyance, and no one can be certain that thousands of passengers don't have something peanut-related that can cause someone to go into shock.
Even if all passengers were compliant and willing to forego nuts on the plane, the airline can't police the crumbs in their pockets. Ultimately the airline will be liable, but more importantly, is it worth someone's life?
Even if all passengers were compliant and willing to forego nuts on the plane, the airline can't police the crumbs in their pockets. Ultimately the airline will be liable, but more importantly, is it worth someone's life?
3
Clearly the airlines are fearful of lawsuits. They don't want to be held responsible, and at 30,000 feet, when a passenger accidentally comes into contact with another passenger's peanuts, whether those peanuts were provided by the airline itself, or were from another passenger's own carryon bag. Blame the lawyers.
Life ain't perfect. People, sadly, die from infections, illnesses, allergies, trips and falls, etc., on a daily basis. Every death cannot and should not result in a lawsuit. Some common sense please. But far too many lawyers have planted the idea in people's minds that everything is a potential 'lawsuit'.
Life ain't perfect. People, sadly, die from infections, illnesses, allergies, trips and falls, etc., on a daily basis. Every death cannot and should not result in a lawsuit. Some common sense please. But far too many lawyers have planted the idea in people's minds that everything is a potential 'lawsuit'.
9
Reasonable precautions are all those who are allergic to peanuts, shellfish, penicillin, insect venom, etc., can take. But even seemingly innocuous foods can be dangerous.
A dear friend was birding on St. Kilda some years ago and opened a tin of corned beef to make sandwiches for lunch. Immediately after the first bite she began to go into anaphylactic shock. Prepared as always, she had a syringe & a vial of epinephrine in her purse.
Nowhere on the label were peanuts mentioned. Only after contacting the packer did we learn that the cattle had been fattened on peanuts.
It's good that airlines are looking out for those with nut allergies. But all of us are ultimately responsible for our well-being and must take the necessary precautions to avoid hypoglycaemia, anaphylaxis, or other life-threatening conditions when we fly. That's one reason never to pack your meds in checked luggage and to carry on your person an easily located list of your allergies or other serious medical conditions. Such a list is vital when travelling by car.
A dear friend was birding on St. Kilda some years ago and opened a tin of corned beef to make sandwiches for lunch. Immediately after the first bite she began to go into anaphylactic shock. Prepared as always, she had a syringe & a vial of epinephrine in her purse.
Nowhere on the label were peanuts mentioned. Only after contacting the packer did we learn that the cattle had been fattened on peanuts.
It's good that airlines are looking out for those with nut allergies. But all of us are ultimately responsible for our well-being and must take the necessary precautions to avoid hypoglycaemia, anaphylaxis, or other life-threatening conditions when we fly. That's one reason never to pack your meds in checked luggage and to carry on your person an easily located list of your allergies or other serious medical conditions. Such a list is vital when travelling by car.
12
How come people with other food allergies don't get anaphylaxis if they touch a surface that touched an allergen, or get anaphylaxis from sitting near someone eating the food they are allergic to? Strawberries, bananas, seafood, eggs, milk, soy, wheat are some other food allergies.
In fact, peanuts are not even in the running for top foods causing 90% of allergic food reactions. Yet I'm constantly on planes being asked not to eat a peanut butter sandwich or a bag of peanuts. How come nobody asks me not to eat any strawberries or almonds because someone many feet away from me is allergic? How come nobody asks me to not give my son nutella because someone somewhere has a hazelnut allergy?
It makes people mighty suspicious of these claims of severe allergies. It sounds more like a control thing.
In fact, peanuts are not even in the running for top foods causing 90% of allergic food reactions. Yet I'm constantly on planes being asked not to eat a peanut butter sandwich or a bag of peanuts. How come nobody asks me not to eat any strawberries or almonds because someone many feet away from me is allergic? How come nobody asks me to not give my son nutella because someone somewhere has a hazelnut allergy?
It makes people mighty suspicious of these claims of severe allergies. It sounds more like a control thing.
16
Actually they do. If I speak to a person who has eaten shellfish in the last couple of hours I will get an anaphylactic shock. Cross-contamination in a restaurant kitchens is common - same cutting board and/or knife is used for shellfish and meat, same pan used to cook crab and chicken, same oil used to fry shellfish and meat. I don't eat out much - and those $600 epipens are with me wherever I go.
1
Actually plenty of other people do. I have an anaphylactic reaction if I touch something with trace amounts of pepper on it. However since carrying around peppers is not a popular snack like peanuts are, the only peppers I have to worry about on board are what is served on the in-flight meals. I do wipe down my seat and wear a sweater so I limit what I actually touché
1
wow all your pb sandwiches, bags of peanuts, strawberries, almonds, and nutella consumption on planes makes me suspicious that you and your family are obese and sounds more like a lack of control thing.
1
The pilot is legally and morally responsible for the safety of everyone on the aircraft. Asking her to face criminal charges because you want to be stuffed in an aluminum tube while facing an allergy that can kill you, even with an epi pen, inside the time it takes to descend is just unreasonable. The cabin crew can't get the smug, arrogant millennials to turn off their phones, how are they going to get them to not open anything with peanuts in it.
Also add in that regardless of real allergies or science, there is a certain category of parents who present a severe risk of civil liability suits no matter what the victim has, or could do about a situation, real or imagined.
Also add in that regardless of real allergies or science, there is a certain category of parents who present a severe risk of civil liability suits no matter what the victim has, or could do about a situation, real or imagined.
10
This family does strike me as the sort that has their lawyer on speed dial. How did this story get shopped to the NY times, may I ask?
8
Generalized anger isn't helpful in coming up with workable approaches to the problem of major allergens in tightly shared communal spaces such as airplanes.
Peanuts and tree nuts are two of the eight FDA-recognized "major allergens." In the case of peanuts, it is medical fact that reactions to even low exposures can be especially severe. And peanut allergy has become far more common in recent decades, possibly because of misguided but well-intentioned medical advice to limit peanut exposure in infancy(See recent NYT Health column on this).
It just makes sense to make a reasonable effort to keep peanuts out of a public conveyance that is, in its essence, a sealed metal tube in which dozens or even hundreds of strangers are crammed together.
Peanuts and tree nuts are two of the eight FDA-recognized "major allergens." In the case of peanuts, it is medical fact that reactions to even low exposures can be especially severe. And peanut allergy has become far more common in recent decades, possibly because of misguided but well-intentioned medical advice to limit peanut exposure in infancy(See recent NYT Health column on this).
It just makes sense to make a reasonable effort to keep peanuts out of a public conveyance that is, in its essence, a sealed metal tube in which dozens or even hundreds of strangers are crammed together.
1
Far fewer people will be inconvenienced if the persons with allergies stay ouf of sealed metal tubes where hundreds of strangers and their luggage are crammed together.
The rest of us simply do not owe these people the right to fly.
The rest of us simply do not owe these people the right to fly.
6
The rules governing allergies on airplanes are arbitrary. I have severe cat allergies and have seen therapy cats board the plane. I have on two occasions asked to be reseated to provide a buffer. The airline has been understanding and responsive. I think the airlines need to have a consistent policy so that customers know what to expect and can plan accordingly to manage allergies to pets and food. The departure gate is not the time to figure this out.
12
Articles about allergies draw a particularly large and divided opinion among Americans. This continues to be a onerous and divisive conviction. One side sights science and studies, while the other holds dear to emotion, convictions and mistrust of countless generations of experience. One opinion sides with the responsibility of the individual(s) to accept a necessary responsibility with regards to a condition. Others see their burden as something that should be an shared cause.
This is political correctness out of control Have these allergic people inform the airline personnel in advance so their their seat and tray table can be wiped to remove any peanut residue. Peanut allergic reactions are extremely rare unless one atctually eats peanuts. So don't eat the free peanuts.
11
"Research has shown that taking steps like creating buffer zones, in which nearby passengers are asked to refrain from eating nut products, and wiping down seats and trays may reduce the risk of an allergic reaction in flight."
The link provided to support this assertion says no such thing. It says more study is needed.
The link provided to support this assertion says no such thing. It says more study is needed.
12
The airlines are between a rock and a hard place, just like those with severe food allergies themselves. On the one hand, everyone should be able to enjoy the benefits of air travel. On the other, a severe allergic reaction while in the air can be lethal, even with epinephrine nearby.
My sympathy is with the airlines, whose legal liability would likely be great should something happen, signed waiver or not. The carriers can certainly refrain from serving nuts; there are many alternatives. But practically speaking they can't control what every other passenger might eat, and they can't clean the passenger's seat with assurance that they've gotten every speck.
Are the airlines overdoing it, and should passengers be allowed to take their own chances? Probably, but there would have to be changes in the law to clarify the liability issues, as the plane flies over many states and/or countries, each with different laws.
Until then, passengers who have been denied boarding can thank their local trial lawyers. Overall, there's little doubt but that our out-of-control system of legal liability often does much more harm than good.
My sympathy is with the airlines, whose legal liability would likely be great should something happen, signed waiver or not. The carriers can certainly refrain from serving nuts; there are many alternatives. But practically speaking they can't control what every other passenger might eat, and they can't clean the passenger's seat with assurance that they've gotten every speck.
Are the airlines overdoing it, and should passengers be allowed to take their own chances? Probably, but there would have to be changes in the law to clarify the liability issues, as the plane flies over many states and/or countries, each with different laws.
Until then, passengers who have been denied boarding can thank their local trial lawyers. Overall, there's little doubt but that our out-of-control system of legal liability often does much more harm than good.
8
My teenage daughter has life-threatening nut allergies. It's hard to read some of these cruel and misinformed comments. We aren't helicopter parents. She did play in the dirt. Her first severe reaction was a contact reaction. The idea of feeding an infant nuts to prevent allergy was just announced recently.
Do you have any idea how much we hate this allergy?? What I wouldn't give for her not to have to live with it?? Having a severe allergy has taught my daughter to be kind and compassionate, to live carefully, to ask questions, and to take nothing for granted. She faces challenges every day of her life. I don't think she deserves to be banned from air travel, too.
Do you have any idea how much we hate this allergy?? What I wouldn't give for her not to have to live with it?? Having a severe allergy has taught my daughter to be kind and compassionate, to live carefully, to ask questions, and to take nothing for granted. She faces challenges every day of her life. I don't think she deserves to be banned from air travel, too.
36
Not at all. Drive. Just don't risk her life on the behavior of passengers you cannot control.
7
Many claims in this article about reactions to "mild exposure" are inaccurate, based on an extensive literature on the topic. Exposure to peanut dust is not a thing, and surfaces are easily cleaned of allergens.
I am not dismissive of the horrible consequences of allergic people who ingest peanuts, but people are safe from a serious systemic reaction unless they eat peanuts. Skin irritation is possible from contact with allergens, but very easily avoidable.
Relevance of casual contact with peanut butter in children with peanut allergy☆ . Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology , Volume 112 , Issue 1 , Pages 180 - 182
Distribution of peanut allergen in the environment . 2004.Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology , Volume 113 , Issue 5 , Pages 973 - 976
I am not dismissive of the horrible consequences of allergic people who ingest peanuts, but people are safe from a serious systemic reaction unless they eat peanuts. Skin irritation is possible from contact with allergens, but very easily avoidable.
Relevance of casual contact with peanut butter in children with peanut allergy☆ . Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology , Volume 112 , Issue 1 , Pages 180 - 182
Distribution of peanut allergen in the environment . 2004.Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology , Volume 113 , Issue 5 , Pages 973 - 976
30
Somewhat misleading though likely unintentional on your part. The first paper you cited only studied reaction to peanut butter in extremely small quantity and they specifically excluded peanuts either in roasted form or flour. They further comment in the paper that they cannot exclude a reaction if a kid is exposed to airborne peanut protein or large amount of peanut protein. In an airplane, not only is there is risk of PB from co-passengers but also peanuts served by the airlines which were not studied int the paper
6
You are so wrong. My nephew had an anaphylactic reaction after passing a plate with peanut containing cookies. His allergist believed he probably rubbed his eye with peanut oil on his finger. He ended up at the hospital. Seriously, you can't forgo your peanuts on a flight? Really? For whom is a snack worth someone else's life?
7
Obviously, the airlines have their own nut allergies.
27
What would happen if these same families were allowed to board the flights and the family member suffered a reaction? A multi-million dollar lawsuit claiming the airline caused the injury
34
A reasonable jury would throw it out and make the plaintiffs pay legal fees.
2
I honestly don't mind if airlines stopped serving peanuts completely. I don't need plane food since I'll bring my own. But parents shouldn't be able to forbid other people from eating whatever they want, on planes or wherever. We should just stop serving food or drinks on plane and expect to be accomodated everything for free. If your allergy is so severe they have any chance of wasting everyone's time, money, and plane fuel, you should be willing to accomodate others as much as you want them to accomodate you.
30
How did everyone fly for 85 years, until now, with allergies of one type or another?
73
There weren't as many allergies. The rate of increase since the 1950's is staggering. One in thirteen kids has some form of food allergy now. If this rate of increase continues it will be a public health crisis very soon. Check out fare.org for more information, like how this actually is a first world problem.
5
Agreed; similarly, why has it become so fashionable to have a gluten intolerance these days? The numbers just don't make any sense.
All of a sudden, bread, the staff of life for thousands of years in many countires has become a 'poison' in the eyes of so many patients of health quacks or doctors who don't know how to diagnose bacterial imbalances in the gut properly - and just call it 'gluten intolerance' instead.
All of a sudden, bread, the staff of life for thousands of years in many countires has become a 'poison' in the eyes of so many patients of health quacks or doctors who don't know how to diagnose bacterial imbalances in the gut properly - and just call it 'gluten intolerance' instead.
8
Well as I recall, back in the old days, there would be at least three deaths per flight. Everyone just accepted it as the inevitable cost of flying.
2
I'm really appalled by the contempt and complete lack of empathy in so many of these comments. These people are doing the best they can to stay alive and to minimize what is surely a stressful experience. If not eating peanuts for a couple hours is a problem for you, maybe you should stay home instead.
93
Right. Those of us who want to eat nuts on public transportation of any kind, eating establishments, lodging facilities, schools and universities, office building lobbies and break rooms, retail establishments, food courts, sporting events, entertainment venues, should just stay home. Is it reasonable to make such demands? Public spaces would be much safer places if the rest of us were simply confined to our homes. Really?
13
ck, there is no contempt or lack of empathy, just scientific evidence that being near peanuts does not cause allergic reactions.
9
You're so evolved and sensitive, CK. Your virtue signaling impresses everyone.
4
Check reliable sources, like the CDC and medical journals. There is NO credible evidence that skin contact or sitting next to someone eating peanuts can cause an allergic reaction, much less one that is severe and life threatening.
53
Not quite right. Skin contact can cause hives. There is no credible evidence that it has caused anaphylaxis. That lurid tale of the girl who died from kissing her boyfriend after he had just eaten peanuts has been debunked.
6
You are welcome to come with me to the doctors office to see otherwise.
1
What are you talking about? Skin contact with peanut oil as well as airborne peanut particles can absolutely cause severe allergic reaction. Ask any reputable allergist. Maybe your medical journal reading skills need some brushing up?
1
If that's how it is, then the airlines must also prohibit anyone over age 70 from flying - after all, age-related cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events are by far the major causes of in-flight medical emergencies that could require diversion of the flight, much more so than any food allergy - and they should probably also require a physician-attested medical history from every passenger to screen out those at risk for in-flught medical emergencies, whether child or adult.
22
False equivalency. The families of elderly people who have heart disease do not tell the airlines to clear out all fatty foods or grandma might shoot an embolism.
They also don't sue for millions of dollars when grandma has a heart attack at 30,000 feet. But the peanut families will sue if little Caden or Jaden breaks out in spots because some kid somewhere on a plane was eating a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.
They also don't sue for millions of dollars when grandma has a heart attack at 30,000 feet. But the peanut families will sue if little Caden or Jaden breaks out in spots because some kid somewhere on a plane was eating a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.
8
Let's just ban airline travel because some of the flights crash and people die. Even better, get rid of all docs because it is reported (by nut cases) that docs kill people. No medical care would reduce the cost of health care.
2
True, but we are prohibited from discriminating on the basis of age.
Enough of everyone and their special needs in schools restaurants and on planes. Stay home!
55
That doesn't seem like a very nice thought. If you love to cook - i doubt you can be that mean.
11
I hope Lovestocook will never come down with a food allergy, or that anyone in her family comes down with an allergy. I believe that the severe increase in food allergies are due to the large dose of chemicals in our food. Have some compassion.
3
So the right to a free K-12 education shouldn't be extended to kids with disabilities? Are you volunteering to support these unemployable, illiterate children in adulthood?
1
I'm eating a quick PB on toast for lunch as I read this. I'm rushing to get to a meeting, and in the purse which I'll grab in a minute is a bag of peanuts. Nuts, and peanuts in particular, are a unique nutrition source - high in protein, portable, long shelf life - for those of us with low blood sugar issues. I've carried a bag of nuts with me for decades, and they are especially useful during travel. Of course, we cannot jeopardize children who could die when exposed to peanuts or tree nuts, but policies need to recognize that there are more than one group of stakeholders here.
37
If peanuts are solving your low blood sugar issues then you don't have low blood sugar, you are just hungry, just saying. But yes nuts are great source of fuel on the go.
4
Only ingesting peanuts has been shown to cause allergic reactions. For some people, being alive causes them to be allergic.
Good to know your enjoying your snack of choice is worth risking someone else's life.
3
I wish parents would just feed their babies peanut butter... It has been shown to decrease this allergy by 80 percent.
37
Danish researchers have proven beyond any doubt after years of research that exposure to all kinds of foods and bacteria during childhood ensure that no allergies develop later in life.
All these citified parents who turn their children into 'bubble patients' with continuous bateria wipes, keeping them away from dirt and bateria in nature and surroundings and specific foods are only ruining their children's health.
All these citified parents who turn their children into 'bubble patients' with continuous bateria wipes, keeping them away from dirt and bateria in nature and surroundings and specific foods are only ruining their children's health.
7
That's a recent recommendation. Prior, it was to avoid peanuts until 3 years of age if there's a family history of nut allergy.
7
Those folks with the nut allergies should bring their own food on the plane, not eat any of the snacks, wipe their face, and hands with hand sanitizer and wear a face mask -- problem solved. Informing the captain or flight attendant of a nut allergy, or any allergy, is ridiculous. its not up to the whole world to shift and make way for a food allergy only effects a small minority who are allergic.
51
oh my heavens. Would you really not want to know that the peanuts you covet may accidentally kill the child in the next row? I would rather know than think something i so easily could have done without might hurt another person.
These parents ARE bringing their own snacks, and wiping trays down. They can't filter the air around them without your help. It seems like a really nice thing to do just help a parent keep their child safe!!
These parents ARE bringing their own snacks, and wiping trays down. They can't filter the air around them without your help. It seems like a really nice thing to do just help a parent keep their child safe!!
34
Again, misinformation. Hand sanitizer DOES NOT remove peanut allergens. Wet wipes do. NYT, this is seriously irresponsible, if you can't responsibly screen comments for medical accuracy, don't print them!
20
The point is that the allergic reaction could be life threatening. I would gladly accommodate fellow passengers with allergies. It would be nice to see some more empathy and compassion from you and other commentators. There are many other types of snacks the airlines could serve, why does it have to be peanuts or tree nuts? I was disappointed by the treatment of allergic passengers by the airlines. It does look discriminatory, considering that other passengers with serious health conditions (e.g., heart conditions) are allowed to fly without any fear of being kicked off the airplane.
13
I am a very frequent flyer -- over 250K miles a year. I was on a flight on AA about a year ago when they announced "np peanuts due to allergy on the flight" and I must admit i was taken aback. First, by the audacity of someone to announce this issue on entering a highly public space (all ye within the sound of my voice yield to my allergy!) and second, by the inconsistency of the airlines on this and other allergy issues. I am glad that the airlines are putting the burden on the allergy-sufferer to manage this. Clearly someone with this severe an allergy needs to take care not just with planes, but any public transportation or hospitality scenario, and it is unrealistic to have the entire public have to change due to individuals who have clearly unique issues. If their immune systems are so fragile, they should refrain from travel without taking the appropriate precautions -- its not the airlines (or bus, or train, or whatever) problem. The airlines however, have to come to some reconciliation on the inconsistencies in their policy. Pets are the most obvious example. It is a rare day that I do not see a dog or cat on my flights -- and I know FAR more people who have pet allergies than nut allergies. If nuts are off, then pets are off, and vice versa.
63
Pet allergies don't kill people. Peanut allergies do.
18
You obviously do not understand allergies. ANY allergy that causes a severe respiratory reaction can cause anaphylactic shock and death. I have been hospitalized for allergic reaction to cats and dogs. I don't expect every cat- and dog-owner in the world - including those who bring their animals on airplanes - to manage my allergies for me. I am responsible for doing that myself. Those with peanut allergies seem to have a special sense of entitlement.
8
In rare instances, pet dander can also cause anaphylactic shock, which is why I was horrified when another customer brought his pet (not service animal) dog into a pharmacy and didn't stop it when it started to snuffle among the bottles on the open shelves. It's a serious enough situation that the local health department sent out an inspector almost immediately.
8
I have a severe peanut allergy, characterized by my allergist as the "worst he'd ever seen." Yet I have never given a second thought to breathing "peanut air" or similar concerns. I routinely ate lunch as a child among other kids eating PB&Js.
Are there any medically documented instances of an anaphylactic reaction from merely being near someone eating peanuts, such as on a plane? I am skeptical.
Are there any medically documented instances of an anaphylactic reaction from merely being near someone eating peanuts, such as on a plane? I am skeptical.
84
There have been studies with a few cases of reactions upon the simultaneous opening of all the bags of peanuts given out--but it's also always possible some of those reactions were anxiety attacks. But there have been studies, and I have also heard many detailed accounts of airborne reactions to peanut dust so it is certainly within the realm of possibility.
2
That makes more than two of us!!
1
with your "i'm skeptical" attitude, I think it is only a matter of time you will find yourself six feet under. A "severe" peanut allergy is not to be taken lightly.
2
I can only imagine what a nightmare it was growing up in this household.
25
My daughter has a peanut allergy. We called ahead and Delta made the flight peanut free. They announced that there were passengers with peanut allergies and asked travelers to refrain form eating peanut based products that they brought on board.
They gave out pretzels and those mighty tasty Biscoff cookies. I don't think anyone's lives were ruined by not eating peanuts for a few hours.
It is really common courtesy and a little empathy, which appears to sorely lacking these days.
They gave out pretzels and those mighty tasty Biscoff cookies. I don't think anyone's lives were ruined by not eating peanuts for a few hours.
It is really common courtesy and a little empathy, which appears to sorely lacking these days.
110
And if I was on that flight and did not hear it and ate a peanut would you sue me or the airline?
This is why they don't want to take on the burden. I have allergies to nuts as well so I am not saying this to be cruel - but I can get why they do what they do. The world is law suit happy.
This is why they don't want to take on the burden. I have allergies to nuts as well so I am not saying this to be cruel - but I can get why they do what they do. The world is law suit happy.
2
Why did they wait until people were on the plane? If they'd made gates announcements people could have purchased alternative food.
3
So your peanut-allergic daughter is in 31A and I, in 55F, eat my bag of salted peanuts that I brought on board our transAtlantic flight. And the woman in 11C eats her peanut oil-fried spring roll. And your daughter has a seizure? I dont have a solution to this predicament. I am slightly skeptical that lawyers will converge on a common-sense solution.
3
If I thought my child could die because of an allergic reaction to allergens on a plane, I would not put them on a plane.
80
But your child could die in a car crash driving to the airport or daycare or a playdate. Would you not put them in a car? Realistically you put them in a safe car in a car seat with a sober alert driver.
Isn't that all anaphylactic allergy parents are asking for a safer vehicle to travel in.
Isn't that all anaphylactic allergy parents are asking for a safer vehicle to travel in.
4
I totally agree! If the parents REALLY thought the child could die due to some minuscule exposure to peanuts (or anything else), they simply would NOT take the risk. Actually, if the child is THAT allergic, putting him in such a risky environment should be grounds for child endangerment charges.
4
Kids have a higher change of dying in an car accident than of a nut allergy (if basic precautions are taken). But people put kids in cars every day.
4
This article states that if some of these allergy sufferers were allowed to preboard and wipe down their areas, they would be okay. Even for parents with babies most airlines have dropped the practice. I traveled with my 6 month old a couple of months ago and the other passengers were shocked I couldn't preboard. Why have airlines cut down in preboarding? Is it a time issue?
16
That's interesting. I frequently travel Delta with my pet dog ($125 each way to substitute for my one allowed carry on). As the last of the pre-boarders are filtering through the gate, I've never been denied pre-boarding when I ask, since it usually takes me a couple of minutes to get her situated in her carrier under the seat in front of mine. I will make a mental note not to say she has a nut allergy.
2
Lisa: because people have abused the privilege, and overhead space is limited.
5
Interesting reactions from the legume and nut allergy crowd--all of them telling those of us with dander-triggered allergic responses that it's no more than an inconvenience.
Sorry--but a sudden asthma attack can be fatal. I've had a couple of instances of needing to be rushed to the emergency room. As with other allergies, I'm not triggered all the time--but can't predict when I will be.
And--like your Epi-Pens--a rescue inhaler doesn't always rescue.
Sorry--but a sudden asthma attack can be fatal. I've had a couple of instances of needing to be rushed to the emergency room. As with other allergies, I'm not triggered all the time--but can't predict when I will be.
And--like your Epi-Pens--a rescue inhaler doesn't always rescue.
30
I support your desire to travel in a dander free environment for your disability. Do you intern empathise and support those with anaphylactic allergies.
1
So you have risk factors, accept and deal with them.
Airlines have made flying more and more difficult as they raise prices and nickel and dime passengers. Really, they make billions in profits each year and act like putting your suitcase in the cargo hold is now an inconvenience that will cost 25$ minimum each bag.
I have been on flights with a peanut allergy sufferer and heard the announcement that no peanuts would be served because of that. No big deal. You really have to carry your own food now anyway.
For those who are contemptuous of peanut allergies--I knew a girl in the 1970s who discovered her peanut allergy as a toddler when she put her hand in a jar of peanutbutter and her hand and arm swelled up like a balloon and she couldn't breathe. She was lucky to get to the hospital on time. So yes, allergies can be severe and life threatening to just touch the food allergen.
I have been on flights with a peanut allergy sufferer and heard the announcement that no peanuts would be served because of that. No big deal. You really have to carry your own food now anyway.
For those who are contemptuous of peanut allergies--I knew a girl in the 1970s who discovered her peanut allergy as a toddler when she put her hand in a jar of peanutbutter and her hand and arm swelled up like a balloon and she couldn't breathe. She was lucky to get to the hospital on time. So yes, allergies can be severe and life threatening to just touch the food allergen.
18
You need to brush up on airline economics and historiccal airline prices, Ms. Flower. it costs about 1/3 what it used to and airlines seldom in the past 100 years have posted annual profits.
9
Want to fly 3,000 miles for $300? Well, this is how it's done.
4
Don't worry, soon the airlines won't even distribute peanuts and other snacks. Problem solved.
3
I am allergic to small seats, smelly passengers, and people who try to fit things like steamer trunks and portable generators into the overhead bins.
What about my rights?
What about my rights?
83
This is not a laughing matter. This is a potential deadly matter.
17
@GMooG
You're confused about the word "allergic." You seem to think the meaning is "strongly dislike." This article is about a medical condition, often severe and life-threatening.
You're confused about the word "allergic." You seem to think the meaning is "strongly dislike." This article is about a medical condition, often severe and life-threatening.
16
Do these allergies cause difficulty breathing, heart palpitations, acute myocardial infarction, swelling of the airway, and potential death within 30minutes?
5
“This is about being allowed to fly like everybody else in the United States,” said Ms. Vargas, the lawyer representing the families. No, it isn't. It's about being allowed to fly while making everyone else on board accommodate your needs. I can't wait till a peanut-allergic, comfort dog-accompanied person who weighs 400 lbs. and cannot watch TV because it doing so may give him or her a seizure demands to sit in first-class because there's not enough seat room in economy for him/her and the dog.
66
As serious as nut allergies can be, I sense a degree of manipulation here similar to passengers and tenants claiming exemptions in pet free situations for so called service animals. There is no way to be sure that every last molecule of allergen can be avoided except by living in a protective bubble. And, is there science to support the need for this degree of special treatment?
21
What's the incentive to pretend you're allergic to peanuts even though you arn't? The chance to preboard? You really think anyone is going to do that?
The abuse potential with service animals is obvious because it's a way to take your dog with you when you wouldn't otherwise be allowed to.
I'm not sure the abuse potential of people claiming to have peanut allergies when they don't is really all that high.
The abuse potential with service animals is obvious because it's a way to take your dog with you when you wouldn't otherwise be allowed to.
I'm not sure the abuse potential of people claiming to have peanut allergies when they don't is really all that high.
15
What if I am allergic to dogs - the "service" and "companion " animals?
3
I am an adult with multiple severe/anaphylactic food allergies and struggle with this every time I fly. While I have never been denied boarding, I have had to deal with bad attitudes from flight attendants, and fellow travelers as well. Most FAs however will do try to find something safe for me to eat. unfortunately, fellow passengers get snide about "special attention" whilst they are eating their meals. Go figure
A few examples of the not-so-nice experiences: 17 hours to Johannesburg: only thing safe was a few bread rolls, business class flight to Germany in Lufthansa: American-based customer service rep told me to stop at McDonald's on my way to the airport. I must say this, however: The only airline that has ever TRIED to provide me with a hot meal is Qantas -- the purser actually contacted HQ in Sydney to get the ingredients lists.
I do not think that it is too much to ask that if I am spending the equivalent of a month's mortgage payment on an overseas flight that I can eat SOMETHING. All I ask is there be an option that is not drowned in some mystery sauce or loaded with wine &/or mushrooms. How about everything be labeled with every ingredient? These suggestions have to be a better option than risking a diversion for the airlines.
A few examples of the not-so-nice experiences: 17 hours to Johannesburg: only thing safe was a few bread rolls, business class flight to Germany in Lufthansa: American-based customer service rep told me to stop at McDonald's on my way to the airport. I must say this, however: The only airline that has ever TRIED to provide me with a hot meal is Qantas -- the purser actually contacted HQ in Sydney to get the ingredients lists.
I do not think that it is too much to ask that if I am spending the equivalent of a month's mortgage payment on an overseas flight that I can eat SOMETHING. All I ask is there be an option that is not drowned in some mystery sauce or loaded with wine &/or mushrooms. How about everything be labeled with every ingredient? These suggestions have to be a better option than risking a diversion for the airlines.
14
How about, since you are allergic to so many things, that you bring your own food.
50
I am sort of baffled. Delta has permitted passengers to notify the airline in advance of specific meal requests. Is this no longer the case? They used to have a list from kosher, vegetarian etc. this seems like an easy fix.
1
I'm astonished that you feel airlines should offer you a hot meal with labels on every ingredient, etc. Do you know nothing of economics?
Anyone with such particular and broad food limitations needs to be responsible for bringing their own food. Isn't that what most people do these days anyway?
Anyone with such particular and broad food limitations needs to be responsible for bringing their own food. Isn't that what most people do these days anyway?
3
As Freud would say, "this is really not about nuts". The "hate" being expressed towards those with allergies is astonishing. Just wow. This really seems to strike some nerve. Let's be clear, we are talking about people who are taking responsibility in order to keep themselves safe. People who are bringing their own food. People who are going to wipe down the tray tables so that their kids don't end up eating somebody else's peanut crumbs. But that is not good enough. Obviously those who can't be exposed to any trace have to take special measures but, really, letting somebody wipe down a table is too much to bear? The idea that they are allowed to board 5 min earlier than you is too much? Someone even suggested that allergies represented Munchausen's by Proxy ie caregivers inflicting symptoms on a kid in order to mislead doctors into making a false diagnosis. Really? No, those kids are not really dead, right? May you all reap what you sow.
44
Is there a civil right to fly on a plane?
If I were on a plane and was asked not to eat nuts, I'd comply. We live in a litigious society, however, and it's not the world's greatest idea to create some new right. I was glad when smoking was banned. I would not like to see a new rule that TSA is going to be evaluating any food I'm carrying for things someone might be allergic to. The airlines can stop serving peanuts, but they cannot realistically control the behavior of their passengers. I've been seated next to people eating smelly food. Tough luck. I avoid bringing smelly food myself out of politeness.
If you tell the airline you or your child has a life-threatening allergy, why wouldn't they take you off the plane. Would it be better to let the child be exposed to unnecessary risk?
If I were on a plane and was asked not to eat nuts, I'd comply. We live in a litigious society, however, and it's not the world's greatest idea to create some new right. I was glad when smoking was banned. I would not like to see a new rule that TSA is going to be evaluating any food I'm carrying for things someone might be allergic to. The airlines can stop serving peanuts, but they cannot realistically control the behavior of their passengers. I've been seated next to people eating smelly food. Tough luck. I avoid bringing smelly food myself out of politeness.
If you tell the airline you or your child has a life-threatening allergy, why wouldn't they take you off the plane. Would it be better to let the child be exposed to unnecessary risk?
2
I flew Delta over Thanksgiving. They made an announcement that due to a peanut allergy, peanuts would not be served on the flight. It was handled in a considerate and professional manner.
22
I was traveling back to NYC recently and had 2 segments on United The first was a small commuter plane. I had a layover in Chicago before coming back to NYC. I packed Kind Bars with me which have nuts in it. We packed in the commuter jet like sardines and were told that someone had a nut allergy and we were asked to refrain from eating anything with peanuts. I was not pleased but agreed to abstain. I got into O'Hare airport and navigated the long terminals to make my connection. I got to my seat and opened my Kind Bar. I start eating when the very same passenger with the allergy asked me to stop eating because she has nut allergies. I finished it because It was all I had with me and I was not going to wait another 2 1/2 hours this time to eat my food. She was not pleasant and I must admit I loathed her attitude. Well, she was sitting 5 feet from me and that nut odor was airborne already. Guess what? Nothing happened! She didn't ask to be moved up from me with what most allergic people would consider contaminated air. It had no ill effect on her. I was shocked when the pilot made another nut announcement this time to a large jet with 200 people aboard.
For the record I have a nephew with a severe allergic reaction to shellfish. My sister carries benadryl and epipens. They fly 1st class often and have never asked for shellfish to not be served. So, my feeling is suck it up buttercup. Sorry, but the world can not stop every time for you. Be safe, but don't be demanding.
For the record I have a nephew with a severe allergic reaction to shellfish. My sister carries benadryl and epipens. They fly 1st class often and have never asked for shellfish to not be served. So, my feeling is suck it up buttercup. Sorry, but the world can not stop every time for you. Be safe, but don't be demanding.
62
Peanuts and tree nuts do float in the air. My 34 yr old son can be in a movie theater and someone a few rows over is eating nuts and his throat begins to swell shut. just from breathing the same air. Shellfish don't travel through the air when you consume them! He has gone into anaphylactic shock 7 times since he was 3 yrs old. And it hasn't been his fault. So "Buttercup suck it it up if it's a nut free flight"!
15
I ask, not to offend, but just out of curiosity, does he still go to movie theaters?
24
My throat begins to swell when I am sitting a couple seats away from someone with a dog. So do I have a right to demand a dog-free flight? It had never occurred to me until now since, although my throat swells frequently from a variety of substances, this swelling has never been cause for a hospital visit.
1
Hopefully with new guidelines on early introduction of peanut products into the diet of babies, peanut allergy will become much less common.
14
Here's hoping this will come to pass. But what about the "lack of empathy for others" epidemic?
1
Kid with peanut allergy? He might have an allergic reaction. GET EM OFF MY PLANE!!!
Kid with diabetes? She might pass out from low blood sugar. GET EM OFF MY PLANE!!!
Make-a-Wish kid with bandage on head? He might have a seizure. GET EM OFF MY PLANE!!!
I'm going to Disney World!!!!
Kid with diabetes? She might pass out from low blood sugar. GET EM OFF MY PLANE!!!
Make-a-Wish kid with bandage on head? He might have a seizure. GET EM OFF MY PLANE!!!
I'm going to Disney World!!!!
10
How ironic, Disney is one of the most allergy-aware companies in the world. Probably because their primary customer base is families with school-aged children.
Perhaps you should meet with one of the Disney chefs who come to your table, take notes of all of your child's allergens, and do their best to prepare an excellent meal. Or perhaps you would like to tour one of the dedicated kitchens to guest with food allergies on one of their cruise lines. Or take their training course they developed for commercial kitchens that highlights appropriate precautions to keep these kids alive.
Disney takes it very seriously. I suggest you do too.
Perhaps you should meet with one of the Disney chefs who come to your table, take notes of all of your child's allergens, and do their best to prepare an excellent meal. Or perhaps you would like to tour one of the dedicated kitchens to guest with food allergies on one of their cruise lines. Or take their training course they developed for commercial kitchens that highlights appropriate precautions to keep these kids alive.
Disney takes it very seriously. I suggest you do too.
3
There are some ignorant posts here. My grandson cannot bring peanut treats to class. Get with the times people. My other grandson went into anaphylactic shock over one cashew (a throat swelling shut and volatile vomiting) and even after using an Epi Junior he still had to go the ER for 24 hours for additional treatment.
Some posters here think children should take a boat to Europe because they don't feel they should be inconvenienced. Really? Children's tickets are the same price that the idiots here paid for theirs -- let the peanut lovers take a boat.
Some posters here think children should take a boat to Europe because they don't feel they should be inconvenienced. Really? Children's tickets are the same price that the idiots here paid for theirs -- let the peanut lovers take a boat.
24
I've travelled extensively on cruise ships (thank you, NYtimes for having that deal with Holland America for free access via internet) and if parents tried to get the dining room to refrain from a food to accommodate sweetums, they'd be keelhauled.
2
How about travelers with pet allergies? Is there any accommodation being made for them? This seems like a bigger issue as peanuts cannot fly through the air as pet dander does.
19
Yes peanuts can fly through the air . My son has gone into from anaphylactic shock this way!
8
"Yes peanuts can fly through the air"
Those darn wings ...
Those darn wings ...
2
I wish George Washington Carver was still with us; he would surely have an answer to this problem.
2
The medical professionals have several treatments to address.
People who have nut allergies should be allowed to fly, but at same time they should bear responsibility of their illness. Don't let them pre-board early for free because you know that is just asking for everyone to develop an "allergy" to peanuts. If they feel strongly about the allergy, pay the extra $20 to get on early to wipe things down.
I went all through school and never met a classmate with a peanut allergy (or maybe they just were smart enough to know how to deal with it). Nowadays it seems like it is fashionable for every little Johny and Jane to have some sort of allergy.
I went all through school and never met a classmate with a peanut allergy (or maybe they just were smart enough to know how to deal with it). Nowadays it seems like it is fashionable for every little Johny and Jane to have some sort of allergy.
25
Fashionable?! Having a food allergy is far from glamorous, nor is it remotely desirable! No one would choose to live with a food allergy, or choose to worry about keeping their child safe from a life threatening allergy, just as you would never choose to have a potentially life threatening condition. It is unclear why allergy rates have increased, but certainly better recognition and heightened awareness of allergies means that we are seeing more of them now than when, say, you were growing up. By the way, pre-boarding to clean one's area, bringing your own food onto the plane, and informing airline staff of your allergy IS taking responsibility. There is a lot of misunderstanding about food allergies, and I myself was clueless about them until my child was diagnosed. So please, be open to learning, and refrain from passing judgment on this very serious topic. Having a food allergy isn't a choice or a statement.
9
The problem is this doesn't work in practice. When you let the person board and then she goes into shock, you don't get to say "too bad, suck it up and die, we're not diverting the plane." You have to divert the plane anyway.
This actually isn't primarily about the airline being afraid it's going to get sued by someone who has an allergic reaction - it is about the cost of diverting a plane to get treatment for someone, which is huge.
This actually isn't primarily about the airline being afraid it's going to get sued by someone who has an allergic reaction - it is about the cost of diverting a plane to get treatment for someone, which is huge.
2
OK - any anyone with a heart condition - flights are 500x more likely to be diverted because of heart attack - should also bear all of the responsibility. Got it!
1
It is the type of rhetoric I find on these comment boards that explains why Trump was elected President.
Apparently more than a few comments here explain how people are absolute aghast at the lack of compassion by their fellow citizens. They are outraged that the peanut lobby is winning, that there isn't enough government regulation, and that the rest of humanity is downright appalling for not forgoing peanuts.
Yes, it's precisely this train of thought that will win Trump reelection.
I don't like peanuts, either at home or on the plane. But it I am not going to demand government regulation to force a private business (airlines) to accommodate every variable of human sickness.
If plane travelers make the VOLUNTARY choice to travel on airplanes, then airlines are entitled to make the VOLUNTARY choice remove passengers that burden their business.
Apparently more than a few comments here explain how people are absolute aghast at the lack of compassion by their fellow citizens. They are outraged that the peanut lobby is winning, that there isn't enough government regulation, and that the rest of humanity is downright appalling for not forgoing peanuts.
Yes, it's precisely this train of thought that will win Trump reelection.
I don't like peanuts, either at home or on the plane. But it I am not going to demand government regulation to force a private business (airlines) to accommodate every variable of human sickness.
If plane travelers make the VOLUNTARY choice to travel on airplanes, then airlines are entitled to make the VOLUNTARY choice remove passengers that burden their business.
26
You are correct. This is why you voted for Trump. The rights of the individual and of business always win over the rights of others.
This is also why more people voted for Clinton than Trump. More Americans value the social good than this righteous individualism.
But then I didn't bring up politics. We were telling about peanuts.
This is also why more people voted for Clinton than Trump. More Americans value the social good than this righteous individualism.
But then I didn't bring up politics. We were telling about peanuts.
19
Social good? You have it mixed up.
The vast majority of people are NOT allergic.
The vast majority of people are NOT allergic.
4
I bet peanuts would win the popular vote.
1
The airlines should be made to watch movies of children going through anaphylaxis. Also a nightmare for us is the slackening policy regarding pets on the plane. My daughter is deadly allergic to cats. Animal dander on seats and in the aircon recently triggered a violent asthma attack.
I think we should sue. Sue for negligence. Sue for the inconvenience. Sue for health care costs.
I think we should sue. Sue for negligence. Sue for the inconvenience. Sue for health care costs.
5
This is why we can't have nice things.
Just stay in your house forever and you will be okay.
4
Maybe someones who eats a Snickers should be waterboarded, by your logic. That would show them.
1
I was amazed at how some parents actually manage to make the evil airlines look sympathetic.
11
Anaphylactic shock is no joke.
Not all people on an airplane are flying for vacation.
It's impossible to control what people pack for themselves to consume on a flight. Peanut butter is one of the easiest things to make and take.
If you can't come in contact with a surface that's been previously touched by a person who has eaten peanuts ... well gloves and a mask would certainly help.
Having said that, it's discrimination to bar a particular class of people from flying because of their disability. Getting rid of peanuts in flight seems like a simple solution but of course it isn't. Nothing is simple.
Not all people on an airplane are flying for vacation.
It's impossible to control what people pack for themselves to consume on a flight. Peanut butter is one of the easiest things to make and take.
If you can't come in contact with a surface that's been previously touched by a person who has eaten peanuts ... well gloves and a mask would certainly help.
Having said that, it's discrimination to bar a particular class of people from flying because of their disability. Getting rid of peanuts in flight seems like a simple solution but of course it isn't. Nothing is simple.
7
It is no Joke. Which is why anyone who is that allergic or has a child that allergic should not be flying on a plane. Why would you risk the life of your child that way?
25
I fly for business every other week. I am not allergic to peanuts. I have little tolerance for kids on planes, loud talkers, seat recliners, arm rest hoggers, obese who complain about the size of the seat, and just about any other decent human who purchased the right to sit on the plane as I did.
But as low as my tolerance is, I find this problem easy to mitigate (but not solve completely). You can't control exactly what other passengers bring onto the plane food-wise, but you can easily stop serving nuts. Airlines instantly reduce their liability and temporarily placate the deathly allergic. The benefits to the airlines outweigh the risk, and out of pure ignorance, I don't know why they haven't gone in the non-nut direction sooner.
And, there will always be a few nuts on planes, especially the drunk ones.
But as low as my tolerance is, I find this problem easy to mitigate (but not solve completely). You can't control exactly what other passengers bring onto the plane food-wise, but you can easily stop serving nuts. Airlines instantly reduce their liability and temporarily placate the deathly allergic. The benefits to the airlines outweigh the risk, and out of pure ignorance, I don't know why they haven't gone in the non-nut direction sooner.
And, there will always be a few nuts on planes, especially the drunk ones.
43
I like your attitude. I bet you're a pleasant person to sit next to during flights.
2
I don't think most people would miss their nuts on a given flight if a fellow passenger might be endangered by them.
However, signing a waiver (as Dr, Bloom offered to do) would likely be meaningless. Did she really think the pilot would continue on to T&C if her sons were in extremis with an attack?
However, signing a waiver (as Dr, Bloom offered to do) would likely be meaningless. Did she really think the pilot would continue on to T&C if her sons were in extremis with an attack?
15
Dr. Bloom cannot sign a waiver for a child. An adult can sign a waiver for himself. The kid experiences anaphylaxis and winds up with brain damage? The kid still has legal rights to redress against the airline.
1
If you can't even be on a plane where someone might eat peanuts then you shouldn't be flying on that plane.
51
I suspect the pilot figured that Dr. Bloom and her family were
trouble, and he/she just wasn't in the mood to deal with them.
The pilot always has the last word, and that was that.
trouble, and he/she just wasn't in the mood to deal with them.
The pilot always has the last word, and that was that.
37
I am shocked by the anger in many of these comments. I have a daughter who has a nut allergy. She is no so sensitive that she will have problems if others around her eat nuts - she just can't eat them herself. When I fly, I ask the airlines what they will be serving and inform them of her allergy so that I make sure she doesn't eat anything she shouldn't. I am doing it for the safety of my daughter - I am not asking for others to change their behavior. This article and the comments are maddening because there is nothing more important to us than our kids. If we didn't think it was safe to fly, we wouldn't. I don't need an airline afraid of litigation or self-righteous commenters to tell me what is safe for my daughter or when I can or cannot fly.
Lastly, a nut allergy is a disability. How would you feel if airlines started banning blind travelers because they might not move quickly enough to exits in an emergency, or banned overweight passengers because they are more likely to have a heart-attack in flight?
Lastly, a nut allergy is a disability. How would you feel if airlines started banning blind travelers because they might not move quickly enough to exits in an emergency, or banned overweight passengers because they are more likely to have a heart-attack in flight?
20
They DO ban the blind from exit row seating, as a practical matter, and require exceptionally obese people to buy two seats. Just sayin'.
15
If you are not affecting other airline passengers than it is your business and that of the airline. The objections are coming because the parents are trying to control other people.
2
Most airlines I use have pretzels not nuts. Kinda simple really.
15
But are they gluten free?
1
The pesticides in peanuts (and the mold potentials) is enough of a reason to ban them on planes or in life.
6
Try organic.
4
RJS: yes of course organic, but calling attention to this issue (and not everyone can afford organic and still some issues with organic). Thank you.
3
I am allergic to cats, but they are allowed on planes with the passengers. If you are allergic to nuts, just don't eat any that are being served. I never heard of anyone being allergic by touch or smell. If you have children allergic to nuts, how about this suggestion, WATCH THEM.
13
I'm sorry but you're misinformed. Nut allergies, unlike cat allergies, can be immediately life threatening. People die every year from exposure. Secondly touching something touched by someone who ate nuts can absolutely cause a life threatening reaction. You're lucky you haven't had to deal with this in your own life.
10
Don't sit by a cat. Anaphylactic shock kills. I am not aware of cat allergies being lethal.
2
Cat allergies can trigger fatal asthma.
2
American Airlines seems to be focused on money extraction ie pay for overhead space. Now this issue for nut allergy sufferers - time to BOYCOTT American Airlines, they have lousy service anyway !!
10
Food allergic passengers are at risk every time they fly.
To date, there are no federal guidelines to protect food allergic passengers on airplanes. Decisions to assist food allergic passengers are inconsistent amongst the airlines and often are made on a case-by-case basis by individual flight crews. I ask how can a child’s safety be dependent on the mood of a flight crew? As founder of the No Nut Traveler, I collect the testimonials of food allergic passengers traveling on commercial airlines. Shockingly, many food allergic passengers are being ridiculed, spoken to rudely by the airline staff and most egregiously, sometimes asked to leave the airplane when disclosing a food allergy. To those who say just don't fly or choose another airline, let me remind you that sometimes the airline with the least accommodating policy is the only one that can get you to your destination on time. I ask you to put yourselves in the shoes of someone who needs to attend a funeral, say goodbye to a sick or ailing relative, participate in a sports competition, attend a work or school event or even report to a military base. Food allergies are unique, as they require the help of those around us to keep us safe. There is no ER in the air and that is why, as allergic passengers, we ask for reasonable accommodations such as pre-boarding the aircraft to make flying safer.
To date, there are no federal guidelines to protect food allergic passengers on airplanes. Decisions to assist food allergic passengers are inconsistent amongst the airlines and often are made on a case-by-case basis by individual flight crews. I ask how can a child’s safety be dependent on the mood of a flight crew? As founder of the No Nut Traveler, I collect the testimonials of food allergic passengers traveling on commercial airlines. Shockingly, many food allergic passengers are being ridiculed, spoken to rudely by the airline staff and most egregiously, sometimes asked to leave the airplane when disclosing a food allergy. To those who say just don't fly or choose another airline, let me remind you that sometimes the airline with the least accommodating policy is the only one that can get you to your destination on time. I ask you to put yourselves in the shoes of someone who needs to attend a funeral, say goodbye to a sick or ailing relative, participate in a sports competition, attend a work or school event or even report to a military base. Food allergies are unique, as they require the help of those around us to keep us safe. There is no ER in the air and that is why, as allergic passengers, we ask for reasonable accommodations such as pre-boarding the aircraft to make flying safer.
30
Thank you so much for this. A key word here is "reasonable". Nobody is asking for a remarkably heavy lift on the part of passengers. I believe Air Canada manages to be nut free and profitable.
12
The ADA defines a person with a disability as a person who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activity. This includes people who have a record of such an impairment, even if they do not currently have a disability. It also includes individuals who do not have a disability but are regarded as having a disability. The ADA also makes it unlawful to discriminate against a person based on that person’s association with a person with a disability.
Flying on a plane is not a major life activity.
Flying on a plane is not a major life activity.
1
They're actually not nut-free - I am a senior with anaphylaxis allergic reactions to nuts and seeds and a whole host of other foods. This all came on in my 50s. It may be karma as I used to think, what, whatever, peanut allergies... But occasionally I have to fly and when I do, I'm now terrified. Air Canada is really the only choice for me, given where I live and my experience with them has been terrific. They ask the passengers around me to refrain from eating nuts and seeds, and they do allow me to pre board. So - no, not nut-free, but they work with me and to boot, assuage my fears.
6
Whatever action comes along, it will hopefully extend to those of us with animal allergies. Cats on flights make me ill.
14
Here's the thing with severe allergies-there is a huge spectrum of severity. There undoubtedly people with allergies to peanut protein so severe that they should never get on an airplane, they know who they are, and they are not in this article. I have a tree nut allergy severe enough that I carry an Epi-Pen, but I know that as long as there are no tree nuts in the product I am eating, I can safely have it. Cashew protein on the tray from a previous passenger would not present a risk to me with my particular allergy, even though eating a single cashew would send me to the ER. I do always identify my allergy when purchasing food, but after reading this article I will no longer do so on flights for fear of being kicked off or banned from my return flight. I'll just brown bag it. Increased awareness of allergies is a good thing, but I have recently been turned away from a couple of restaurants after identifying my allergy instead of being provided with the information I need to make my own decision about whether I can safely eat there, which is frustrating. It should be up to the adult, or the parent of an allergic child, to obtain the information they need to be safe and then to make a decision about how to proceed. If airlines want to request a doctor's note to cover their bases, that is probably valid as long as they make the policy known in advance.
7
This has only peripheral relevance to the nut allergy story.
Roni Caryn Rabin writes "...only a fraction of the estimated 3.6 billion passengers who fly each year."
Now, a fraction of 3.6 billion could be as high as 3,559,999,999. What writers and editors need to learn is how to be specific. A "fraction of" doesn't tell us anything. Saying a fraction of something is just laziness.
Roni Caryn Rabin writes "...only a fraction of the estimated 3.6 billion passengers who fly each year."
Now, a fraction of 3.6 billion could be as high as 3,559,999,999. What writers and editors need to learn is how to be specific. A "fraction of" doesn't tell us anything. Saying a fraction of something is just laziness.
4
The sentence begins "Although nobody tracks medical emergencies, studies show that in-flight emergencies are relatively uncommon..." This is still not numerically precise, but the meaning is unambiguous. Moreover, offering an unsupported number for the fraction in question would reflect dishonesty, which is a lot worse than laziness.
3
The writer is not giving you the actual statistic because it would diminish sympathy for the subject of the article.
1
some times you feel like a nut, sometimes you don't.
15
This is a hard one. I used to work at a children's hospital and food allergies can be very serious. But here's the problem:
What if you have peanut and wheat allergies on the same flight? All three options are gone. Can you ask fliers to note eat any wheat products? Wheat doesn't tend to be as deadly, but egg allergies are and now you ban the cookies at least. And asking patrons to not eat any egg products? What if they don't know whether their bagel has an egg wash on it?
If we stick to just peanut bans it is still a problem. If you are diabetic and need to eat at certain intervals and you brought a peanut butter sandwich, what then? Will the airline buy you a replacement? Should the family buy replacement food for the other patron?
Lastly, studies have shown that you can wipe a surface down every day for a week and it will still leave peanut protein on the surface. You just can't make an airplane seat "safe", by wiping down. If an airline takes it upon themselves to protect you and they fail in that task, can they be sued for negligence?
I understand why airlines feel trapped. Perhaps we just need a waiver for ticket purchase that they are not libel for allergens. passengers can make a polite request in the seats around them to not eat peanuts. They get flights without harassment, but must be responsible for managing their disease.
What if you have peanut and wheat allergies on the same flight? All three options are gone. Can you ask fliers to note eat any wheat products? Wheat doesn't tend to be as deadly, but egg allergies are and now you ban the cookies at least. And asking patrons to not eat any egg products? What if they don't know whether their bagel has an egg wash on it?
If we stick to just peanut bans it is still a problem. If you are diabetic and need to eat at certain intervals and you brought a peanut butter sandwich, what then? Will the airline buy you a replacement? Should the family buy replacement food for the other patron?
Lastly, studies have shown that you can wipe a surface down every day for a week and it will still leave peanut protein on the surface. You just can't make an airplane seat "safe", by wiping down. If an airline takes it upon themselves to protect you and they fail in that task, can they be sued for negligence?
I understand why airlines feel trapped. Perhaps we just need a waiver for ticket purchase that they are not libel for allergens. passengers can make a polite request in the seats around them to not eat peanuts. They get flights without harassment, but must be responsible for managing their disease.
50
The liability issue isn't really the big one here, actually. It's that whether you are liable or not, the plane has to be diverted if you have a reaction. The airline isn't going to say "well you signed a waiver so we'll just let you die."
The cost of diverting a plane is what is motivating this, and that cost is massive.
The cost of diverting a plane is what is motivating this, and that cost is massive.
2
Southwest Airlines allows travelers to identify a peanut allergy via their website at time of ticket purchase. They do not serve peanuts on flights when a passenger has identified an allergy. Passengers with the peanut allergy identified in the reservation can receive a pass to pre-board. They have always allowed me to pre-board with my daughter so I can clean her seat and they have taken extra good care of my kids when they traveled alone. Southwest has my loyalty for life! Why is this so hard for the other airlines?
18
Good to know about Southwest,Thank you! My 14 yo has never been on a plane due to her peanut/nut allergies. I'm too frightened
1
The ignorance and hate are both astounding and sad. First, peanut desensitization is not widely available and not an official recommendation and not all children are candidates for this therapy. Second,it is not a CURE-these children still have to carry an Epipen for the rest of their lives. Second, to compare an aircraft situation to a grocery store or a bus is beyond ridiculous. I am sure, you recognize that air is recirculated in a plane and immediate access to healthcare is not available at 30,000 feet.
To the guy who said "have an Epipen and shut up" , Epipen is the only hope but it does not work everytime. Third, food allergies are on the rise and no one knows why. To ascribe it as phenomenon of the rich and children who "didn't play in the dirt" is oversimplifying a complex immune etiology. To people on this forum who are happy to condemn other parents and children because they are not affected let me apprise you of a new phenomenon. There are now cases of children who could perfectly tolerate nuts earlier and now have suddenly developed deathly nut allergy. So pause before you write disparaging comments and educate yourselves. Nut allergy is not a fad-it is a deadly medical condition-have some compassion and respect. Would you mock people with other disabilities? To the parents of children with allergies, I feel for you and your children but rest assured we in the medical field will conquer this deathly scourge and soon.
To the guy who said "have an Epipen and shut up" , Epipen is the only hope but it does not work everytime. Third, food allergies are on the rise and no one knows why. To ascribe it as phenomenon of the rich and children who "didn't play in the dirt" is oversimplifying a complex immune etiology. To people on this forum who are happy to condemn other parents and children because they are not affected let me apprise you of a new phenomenon. There are now cases of children who could perfectly tolerate nuts earlier and now have suddenly developed deathly nut allergy. So pause before you write disparaging comments and educate yourselves. Nut allergy is not a fad-it is a deadly medical condition-have some compassion and respect. Would you mock people with other disabilities? To the parents of children with allergies, I feel for you and your children but rest assured we in the medical field will conquer this deathly scourge and soon.
33
Thank you for writing a reasoned and compassionate reply. What is wrong with people? There is such a smug and sanctimonious attitude of it can't happen to me -- go pound rock salt. Why? What has happened?
8
The thing is, when you start out yelling at ignorance and hate, most of us see where you are going and you lose a lot of your audience.
2
Thank you-I wholeheartedly agree with the sentiments you expressed in your note.
2
I am only allergic to one nut. However, he never flies coach, and has his own plane.
80
Brilliant!
The volume of false equivalence in these comments is astounding.
Peanut Allergies often result in Anaphylaxis. In case you are not sure what that is a definition is below. Cats, Dogs, Grass, even Celiac do not result in Anaphlaxis. Ask YouTube for a video of someone experiencing peanut anaphlaxis and compare that to your experiences with cats and grass.
Anaphylaxis (an-a-fi-LAK-sis) is a serious, life-threatening allergic reaction. ... Anaphylaxis requires immediate medical treatment, including an injection of epinephrine and a trip to a hospital emergency room.
Peanut Allergies often result in Anaphylaxis. In case you are not sure what that is a definition is below. Cats, Dogs, Grass, even Celiac do not result in Anaphlaxis. Ask YouTube for a video of someone experiencing peanut anaphlaxis and compare that to your experiences with cats and grass.
Anaphylaxis (an-a-fi-LAK-sis) is a serious, life-threatening allergic reaction. ... Anaphylaxis requires immediate medical treatment, including an injection of epinephrine and a trip to a hospital emergency room.
16
If I had a condition like that I would organize my life so that using commercial aircraft was not necessary. I wouldn't expect the world to revolve around me.
3
Anaphylaxis occurs after INGESTION of a peanut, even a small amount. You can't get it if someone else eats the peanut.
11
In fact, for people who have a severe allergy to cats, exposure to cat dander, urine or saliva CAN cause anaphylaxis (it happened to my mother). For MANY people, close exposure to certain pollens and seeds can do the same. So it's not a false equivalency. A number of allergens can cause anaphylaxis in susceptible people.
10
I am looking forward to the day a savvy airline realizes that most of us don't want to travel with children or pets and bans both.
21
Willing to pay $300 more a flight?
Somehow I flew for 20 years before hearing about nut allergies and never saw one problem on a flight.
By the way what's to stop anyone on a plane from buying nuts at a shop before they board and eating them on the plane?
By the way what's to stop anyone on a plane from buying nuts at a shop before they board and eating them on the plane?
33
If a "no nuts" policy is enacted, the gluten-free crowd will be next up at the plate.
No bread for you!
No bread for you!
20
The gluten has to travel to the gut, not the airway / lungs. More idiot sarcasm on this comments section.
YouTube anaphylactic peanut allergy and the same for gluten and get back to me.
YouTube anaphylactic peanut allergy and the same for gluten and get back to me.
4
The airlines are only trying to minimize risk of lawsuits if little jimmy or joannie gets sick on a plane, the plan has to land elsewhere, and 100+ airline travelers miss other flights/or have to get on another plane.Plus mommy/daddy will probably sue the airline as well. If you or your kids are that allergic, you should look into alternative transportation.
21
I am allergic to tree nuts and fruits. In a restaurant, I will ask whether the food I am interested in having has any. I don't eat home made food that was not prepared at my home.
I never have seen the need to inform an airline of my allergies.
I never have seen the need to inform an airline of my allergies.
6
The technical term for the 'swelling" is cardio edema. It's one form of anaphylaxis, that can be quickly fatal if the breathing passages are closed off. The medical protocol whenever an EpiPen is used is to follow up with an ER visit immediately in case intubation may be required.
In my case, which is typical, the allergen was not known, and the anaphylaxis never happened again. But it did happen on a US domestic flight, and the flight was diverted at the pilot's discretion; even though the cardio edema was starting to improve after an Epi injection from the aircraft's medical kit.
This was before Mylan priced it's auto-injector to stratospheric levels.
The fuel cost alone for the diversion was $25,000, and many passengers missed connections for their flights to Asia from San Francisco (our flight's destination). So a passenger with known allegries is putting others at risk, mainly financial, not just themselves.
Whether you have a doctor's note, or a signed release of liability, if anaphylaxis develops in the air, that flight will have to divert. From a legal standpoint the the issue is not about peanuts. It's about anaphylaxis which is unpredictable in its progression,, and potentially fatal.
There is no "predictable outcome" in this situation. Even Doctor's cannot quantify the risk. There is no "peanuts policy" that is going to make legal sense, other than barring passengers with allergies to known substances found on planes.
In my case, which is typical, the allergen was not known, and the anaphylaxis never happened again. But it did happen on a US domestic flight, and the flight was diverted at the pilot's discretion; even though the cardio edema was starting to improve after an Epi injection from the aircraft's medical kit.
This was before Mylan priced it's auto-injector to stratospheric levels.
The fuel cost alone for the diversion was $25,000, and many passengers missed connections for their flights to Asia from San Francisco (our flight's destination). So a passenger with known allegries is putting others at risk, mainly financial, not just themselves.
Whether you have a doctor's note, or a signed release of liability, if anaphylaxis develops in the air, that flight will have to divert. From a legal standpoint the the issue is not about peanuts. It's about anaphylaxis which is unpredictable in its progression,, and potentially fatal.
There is no "predictable outcome" in this situation. Even Doctor's cannot quantify the risk. There is no "peanuts policy" that is going to make legal sense, other than barring passengers with allergies to known substances found on planes.
17
“This is about being allowed to fly like everybody else in the United States”.
No, it's about having special treatment. If you wanted to fly just like everybody else, you wouldn't mention your allergies, or expect special treatment, you'd just fly.
If you can't, like everybody else, boohoo for you, don't fly. It's not a right, it's a convenience.
No, it's about having special treatment. If you wanted to fly just like everybody else, you wouldn't mention your allergies, or expect special treatment, you'd just fly.
If you can't, like everybody else, boohoo for you, don't fly. It's not a right, it's a convenience.
23
The increasing number of pets - supposedly service animals - creates a serious situation for people with pet allergies. Airlines need to monitor this!
11
Not flying isn't always an option. For people without nut allergies, refraining from simply eating nuts is just an inconvenience for a few hours. So Get over it!! For people with severe allergies, not being exposed to nuts isn't a preference -it's a matter of life and death!! As someone without any allergies, I'm thankful I don't have to deal with such hateful, entitled persons that are supremely lacking in compassion like many of the commenters here. No wonder our country is going down the tubes.
15
"Not flying isn't always an option."
Flying wasn't an option for all of human history up until a hundred years ago.
Flying wasn't an option for all of human history up until a hundred years ago.
17
Why would a traveler inform an airline of a nut allergy, or other condition, unless the traveler is putting the responsibility on the airline to prevent a reaction to nuts? If the traveler is equipped to deal with any problems that could arise, there should be no reason to inform the airline. To remove a passenger who informs the airline of a possible medical emergency developing in flight seems like a reasonable precaution.
34
Exactly. Post of the day, Joe Kerr.
8
Help me on this one - Peanuts are not a nut, and certainly NOT a "tree-nut". They are legumes - related to lentils. So, why do people have peanut allergies but not lentil allergies, and why are they also allergic to nuts?
4
They often are not.
1
Our daughter has a peanut allergy, not a tree nut allergy, but we avoid tree nuts too because they are often processed on the same equipment with peanuts.
2
The current situation is untenable; a uniform rule from the FAA would go a long way to resolving this for everyone.
This isn't an allergic reaction like one might have to pollen or cats. This is anaphylactic shock, which, untreated, will cause the allergic person next to you to die of suffocation. This will ruin your whole flight.
Pilots have absolute say over who flies on their planes and what constitutes a threat to the safety of their passengers. They need this authority. But a uniform rule on this particular issue would resolve many of the tensions described in the article and acted out in the comments.
Currently, we're asking pilots to decide whether their passengers truly risk anaphylaxis, which is about as sensible as asking your doctor when to deploy the flaps.
I'd suggest a rule something like this: if a passenger produces an Epi-Pen, don't serve peanuts on the flight. A passenger with an Epi-Pen (a) almost certainly has a "real" allergy and (b) has the tools in place to deal with it effectively.
This isn't an allergic reaction like one might have to pollen or cats. This is anaphylactic shock, which, untreated, will cause the allergic person next to you to die of suffocation. This will ruin your whole flight.
Pilots have absolute say over who flies on their planes and what constitutes a threat to the safety of their passengers. They need this authority. But a uniform rule on this particular issue would resolve many of the tensions described in the article and acted out in the comments.
Currently, we're asking pilots to decide whether their passengers truly risk anaphylaxis, which is about as sensible as asking your doctor when to deploy the flaps.
I'd suggest a rule something like this: if a passenger produces an Epi-Pen, don't serve peanuts on the flight. A passenger with an Epi-Pen (a) almost certainly has a "real" allergy and (b) has the tools in place to deal with it effectively.
16
Jesus, just don't serve nut on planes. Why is that so hard for airlines? There are lot of other snacks folks like! If kids could vote, we would have banned nuts on flights a long time ago. So selfish. 5% of all Americans are allergic, many fatally. That means, like may daughter, they can die pretty much on the spot. What would it take to not have nuts on a plane? A little common sense, some caring and listening to parents (consumers), certainly. Airlines, get your collective heads out of the sand.
39
Next schools, next stores, next all public places.
Yep, how hard is it?
Yep, how hard is it?
1
Well and good. But what if a fellow passenger, packing his own snacks, opens a bag of peanuts while seated next to someone with a severe nut allergy?
I don't see how nuts on board can be avoided, other than frisking all passengers and checking their carry-on luggage to ensure no nuts are present anywhere.
We already have strenuous checks for weapons and explosives. Somehow, I don't think checking every passenger for nuts is going to "fly."
And what if a traveler stops at the airport bar before boarding, brushes his jacket sleeve on peanut debris on the barroom counter, then brushes that sleeve on an airline lunch tray?
And what about perfume allergies?
I sympathize with those with severe allergies, but honestly, isn't this getting beyond the beyond? Talk about Nanny State. If you have such a life-threatening allergy, maybe you're expecting way too much to have the entire air transportation system watching out for your personal welfare.
I don't see how nuts on board can be avoided, other than frisking all passengers and checking their carry-on luggage to ensure no nuts are present anywhere.
We already have strenuous checks for weapons and explosives. Somehow, I don't think checking every passenger for nuts is going to "fly."
And what if a traveler stops at the airport bar before boarding, brushes his jacket sleeve on peanut debris on the barroom counter, then brushes that sleeve on an airline lunch tray?
And what about perfume allergies?
I sympathize with those with severe allergies, but honestly, isn't this getting beyond the beyond? Talk about Nanny State. If you have such a life-threatening allergy, maybe you're expecting way too much to have the entire air transportation system watching out for your personal welfare.
30
Every person for themselves, eh? Dog eat dog, only the strong survive, kick the weaklings to the curb, thin the the herd, sanitize the gene pool one by one, keep up or die by the trail.
When you build your time machine, go back to the dark ages and see how you like it. We are not there anymore, we have an enlightened civilization, the most resources in the history of humankind, and we can spare some energy and compassion to take care of others who are not as fortunate.
For shame.
When you build your time machine, go back to the dark ages and see how you like it. We are not there anymore, we have an enlightened civilization, the most resources in the history of humankind, and we can spare some energy and compassion to take care of others who are not as fortunate.
For shame.
15
Shame, nothing. Even if we have "the most resources in the history of humankind," you still haven't answered the question: how can the airlines possibly screen out the possibility of a random coat sleeve brushing against loose peanuts at an airport bar, and then transferring said peanuts to the food tray of a nut-allergic passenger? What's next: nut-detectors?
2
These hostile comments are truly saddening. As a physician, I've taken care of a young person who died from anaphylaxis due to a peanut allergy. I have a bee sting allergy and went into anaphylaxis and was saved by prompt treatment in an ER (inspiring me to go into medicine).
As a parent, I gave my child peanuts early (per the new recommendations) to avoid development of an allergy. This resulted in anaphylaxis and a trip to the ER. No person who saw their child in that situation would ever intentionally expose their child to that allergen again. There is no standardized protocol to desensitize children to peanuts (as there is with bee stings, which I of course undertook).
I know there's no way to force every passenger to not bring peanuts on board. But anaphylaxis is a real thing, and is life threatening. It is not a "peculiarity" or some aspect of my child's or my personality.
When I fly I will take common sense precautions with my child. Is pre-boarding necessary? I'm not sure it matters. Is this lawsuit justified or helpful? I'm not sure. Can we give up peanuts on flights to try to protect our fellow citizens? I'm sure we can. If I or my baby was just "tough enough" could we give up our epi pens? I'm pretty sure not.
Some of these comments are just so cruel towards those that have life-threatening allergies. If you ever saw or experienced anaphylaxis I doubt you would be so flippant about this issue.
As a parent, I gave my child peanuts early (per the new recommendations) to avoid development of an allergy. This resulted in anaphylaxis and a trip to the ER. No person who saw their child in that situation would ever intentionally expose their child to that allergen again. There is no standardized protocol to desensitize children to peanuts (as there is with bee stings, which I of course undertook).
I know there's no way to force every passenger to not bring peanuts on board. But anaphylaxis is a real thing, and is life threatening. It is not a "peculiarity" or some aspect of my child's or my personality.
When I fly I will take common sense precautions with my child. Is pre-boarding necessary? I'm not sure it matters. Is this lawsuit justified or helpful? I'm not sure. Can we give up peanuts on flights to try to protect our fellow citizens? I'm sure we can. If I or my baby was just "tough enough" could we give up our epi pens? I'm pretty sure not.
Some of these comments are just so cruel towards those that have life-threatening allergies. If you ever saw or experienced anaphylaxis I doubt you would be so flippant about this issue.
104
Don't fly. Don't risk your child's life or health because of people you cannot control and should not be able to control. Because the bottom line is, all 200 people will not comply.
1
Hear, hear. I'm not allergic to peanuts but I do have a more rare, and luckily more controllable food allergy, to a vegetable I had eaten my whole life -- until I went into anaphylactic shock after eating it as an adult. It is pretty terrifying to experience and I'm sure it's terrifying to watch it happen to someone else, especially if "someone else" is your own child. Picture a person who is gasping for air while the throat closes, the face swells dramatically and most of the body (arms, legs, ears) bursts out in red hives. Still gotta have those peanuts on your flight? Have the biscotti. They're delicious.
1
The comments section here is shocking. People actually calling peanut allergies "hypochondria"?! Because they don't believe in them?? Are they really so desperate to eat a peanut on a plane that they would endanger another person's life?
Before we knew my nephew had a peanut allergy I had him over at my house while I was baking peanut butter cookies. He had to go outside and vomit, and wouldn't come back in. We had no idea what was going on. We all ate peanut foods all the time. My nephew once had an anaphylactic attack after passing a plate of cookies in his dorm. Not eating a cookie, or touching a cookie. Just passing a plate. He ended up in the hospital. Going into shock. You can't "fake" that. It isn't hypochondria, any more than a heart attack or stroke. It is a life threatening medical condition, measurable by doctors.
This is why the doomsday clock moved closer to midnight today. Because too many of us don't believe in science, or allergies, or even simply facts, if it suits us. We call each other "delicate" or "snowflakes", to excuse our cruelty. We are now such a mean culture we won't forgo our free dozen peanuts even if someone's life is at stake. Or we're such lazy thinkers, so wantonly ignorant we don't understand anaphylactic allergies are real. Scientific and medical facts are not about "belief". Science isn't like religion. They didn't move the doomsday hand far enough. Mean and ignorant is a bad combination.
Before we knew my nephew had a peanut allergy I had him over at my house while I was baking peanut butter cookies. He had to go outside and vomit, and wouldn't come back in. We had no idea what was going on. We all ate peanut foods all the time. My nephew once had an anaphylactic attack after passing a plate of cookies in his dorm. Not eating a cookie, or touching a cookie. Just passing a plate. He ended up in the hospital. Going into shock. You can't "fake" that. It isn't hypochondria, any more than a heart attack or stroke. It is a life threatening medical condition, measurable by doctors.
This is why the doomsday clock moved closer to midnight today. Because too many of us don't believe in science, or allergies, or even simply facts, if it suits us. We call each other "delicate" or "snowflakes", to excuse our cruelty. We are now such a mean culture we won't forgo our free dozen peanuts even if someone's life is at stake. Or we're such lazy thinkers, so wantonly ignorant we don't understand anaphylactic allergies are real. Scientific and medical facts are not about "belief". Science isn't like religion. They didn't move the doomsday hand far enough. Mean and ignorant is a bad combination.
46
"My nephew once had an anaphylactic attack after passing a plate of cookies in his dorm."
This is why airlines don't want persons with peanut allergies on board. There is no way they can or should be held resonsible for what is in every nook or cranny of a modern aircraft + 150 or more passengers + hundreds of carryons.
Sorry but sometimes our personal desires have to take a backseat to reality.
This is why airlines don't want persons with peanut allergies on board. There is no way they can or should be held resonsible for what is in every nook or cranny of a modern aircraft + 150 or more passengers + hundreds of carryons.
Sorry but sometimes our personal desires have to take a backseat to reality.
28
And those same people who 'don't believe it' elected an Alternate Facts President whose lies, and the lies of his mouthpieces are now repeated ad nauseum.
Just because you don't believe in something doesn't make it untrue! The earth is 'round' and revolves around the Sun. Get over it.
Mean and ignorant. You said a mouthful. And now they are in power.
Just because you don't believe in something doesn't make it untrue! The earth is 'round' and revolves around the Sun. Get over it.
Mean and ignorant. You said a mouthful. And now they are in power.
8
Brilliant post.
1
The science behind desensitizing babies (and adults) with small amounts of allergen is still developing. Hopefully, this will prove to be a workable approach for many.
As the mother of a child with a peanut allergy, and as a scientist, I am interested in the increase in the rates of diagnosed severe peanut allergy. One theory is that modern peanut storage and processing methods have resulted in fungal contaminants in peanut products, and that these contaminants are in fact the allergen. Some people with peanut allergies can injest highly purified peanut oil, which suggests this idea might have merit.
Finally, we don't ban people from flying if we can help it; the elderly fly. People with heart conditions and high blood pressure fly. I like to think we want to make life as safe and pleasant as possible for other people. Are peanuts on planes really so essential for happiness? How much will you go out of your way for the welfare of others? Apparently many draw the line at the sacrifice of not eating a peanut butter sandwich on an airplane flight.
As the mother of a child with a peanut allergy, and as a scientist, I am interested in the increase in the rates of diagnosed severe peanut allergy. One theory is that modern peanut storage and processing methods have resulted in fungal contaminants in peanut products, and that these contaminants are in fact the allergen. Some people with peanut allergies can injest highly purified peanut oil, which suggests this idea might have merit.
Finally, we don't ban people from flying if we can help it; the elderly fly. People with heart conditions and high blood pressure fly. I like to think we want to make life as safe and pleasant as possible for other people. Are peanuts on planes really so essential for happiness? How much will you go out of your way for the welfare of others? Apparently many draw the line at the sacrifice of not eating a peanut butter sandwich on an airplane flight.
24
For those of us with low blood sugar issues, tree nuts and peanuts are a unique nutritional source. They are high in protein. Nuts have a long shelf life, and a Ziploc bag of them is very portable. I have carried a bag of nuts with me everywhere I go for decades. They are especially useful during travel with unpredictable delays, lack of access to food, etc. Many, many times nuts have prevented dizziness, disorientation, fainting. We cannot risk children dying of nut allergy consequences. However, in this discussion, please keep in mind there is more than one group of stakeholders.
6
You couldn't carry a candy bar with you, Wavedance? That's what my uncle with type 2 diabetes would do.
The worst experiences I ever had in many years of flying was not due to nuts but with the odors emanating from innumerable women who think that an over abundance of perfume is somehow and enhancement to their persona. News, not only do I react badly into a fit of sneezing, most of these odors are not pleasant in the first place. And the worst was the time when a woman in the seat in front of me decided to refresh herself mid-air. Well she missed and I bore the full brunt of some really odious concoction. So if one wishes airplane bans ....
27
Thank you, Richard Frauenglass, that is my beef as well. Just today, I got very ill from some woman who had a stinky perfume on the bus. I simply cannot control what other people spritz on themselves, but I have no choice to take the city bus as my health does not permit me to drive, and I do need to get to doctor appointments, grocery shopping, etc..
I get very bad headaches, nausea, rashes (yes, just from sitting next to some perfume laden individual), dizzyness, weakness, and heart palpitations, so, yes, it is a serious matter for me, and, no, when the bus is crowded (usually it is) I cannot move to a remote location from that person with the obnoxious scents. I am literally sick for hours, if not longer.
I get very bad headaches, nausea, rashes (yes, just from sitting next to some perfume laden individual), dizzyness, weakness, and heart palpitations, so, yes, it is a serious matter for me, and, no, when the bus is crowded (usually it is) I cannot move to a remote location from that person with the obnoxious scents. I am literally sick for hours, if not longer.
On a Delta flight from NYC to FL recently a flight attendant stated that they would not offer peanut snacks due to the presence of a passenger with an allergy to nuts. I had packed a salad for myself, and it included peanuts. I refrained from eating it on the 3 hour flight, but I'm not sure how I would have felt had this been a cross-country 6 hour flight. Is my choice then to purchase airline food or go hungry? Going forward I will refrain from including peanuts. But if 20% of the country starts claiming a peanut allergy (as they seem to for ADHD), I'm not sure my willingness to accommodate will prevail.
26
I would have eaten the freakin salad.
1
exactly. I brought a power bar and nuts on board for a long cross country flight several years ago. An announcement was made that no one on the plane could eat anything containing nuts. No alternative was offered and to accommodate one person,the whole plane had to refrain from nuts. why wasn't this an issue in the 19450s ,60s and 70s?
13
explaining the situation to the flight attendant you should have been offered an alternative snack gratis.
5
If you haven't yet gone through desensitization treatment for your allergy and had it fail, please don't expect any accommodation for your problem. We all have our problems and we all have a responsibility to do whatever we can to solve them on our own before we start demanding strangers help us bear them.
13
Janet: Desensitization treatment is not widely available or recommended. It is still in trial phase. How difficult would it be for you to not eat nuts on an airplane where, if someone has a reaction and can't get to a hospital they might die? Would you prefer to blithely eat your little bag of nuts and if a child on the plane dies that's ok with you?
8
Janet please explain where I can get this peanut desensitization treatment you speak of.
Clinicaltrials.gov shows some in various phases but beyond that there is no FDA approved desensitization treatment.
Clinicaltrials.gov shows some in various phases but beyond that there is no FDA approved desensitization treatment.
2
Actually desensitization is pretty widely available in private practice these days in addition to the trials, though it is still hard to get the word out about it (I've contacted NYTimes health reporters, including this one, repeatedly to try to get a story on private practice OIT out there, to no avail). I co-run www.foodallergyny.com, a food allergy support group in NYC metro area. We list the 4 OIT allergists (board certified) in the area on our site--there are two in NJ. My son just graduated from peanut OIT eating 12 peanuts a day. But I agree; can't believe all these folks feel it is their right to eat peanuts on a plane.
1
I have a son who is severely (read, deathly) allergic to peanuts and tree nuts from 18 months of age, and until you have seen your child being worked on feverishly by a medical team trying to save his life because he was accidently exposed to peanuts, please don't be smug and flippant about the dangers of exposure to nuts. How would you feel if it were your child or grandchild? We don't fly anywhere on vacation because of the dangers to him and the hoops we would have to jump through to get him on a flight based on the facts in this article. Also, the thinking HAS changed about introducing peanuts to children earlier, and I am sorry that we were advised against it when he was a baby. I even ate peanuts, tree nuts, and peanut butter while pregnant with him, and that didn't make a difference in his case. I am happy for families that can now try that approach and pray that they have success in fending off or reversing the potential for nut allergies in their children. We do attempt to plan for all events and have our Epi-pens, Benadryl, and personally-packed lunches and snacks for all occasions. But, please stop vilifying people, and children especially, who have no control over this affliction.
44
i wouldn't fly
3
The airline can't guarantee that a passenger with an allergy won't be exposed. Even if all airlines stopped serving peanuts in flight that doesn't stop passengers from bringing their own peanut snacks on board.
22
Andrea G.: People with allergies don't expect or need guarantees. Just some consideration. Having a few passengers who bring their own nuts is one thing. Serving bags of nuts to 200+ people is entirely different.
13
To all the folks who think we are being selfish and thoughtless and the airlines should be forced not to carry nuts as a snack, what about all the snacks people carry on the plane now? Many of us carry nuts because they are a low-carb high-protein snack. Would they tell a movie theater not to serve anything with nuts, or restaurant not to serve anything with nuts?
I can't tell you how many times I've sat on a delayed plane for hours and only drinks are offered. I am a diabetic, and I won't travel without a snack. What do folks do in the waiting room at the airport? Or just simply being in public? If they have such severe allergies, then they are a reaction waiting to happen anywhere in public.
I can't tell you how many times I've sat on a delayed plane for hours and only drinks are offered. I am a diabetic, and I won't travel without a snack. What do folks do in the waiting room at the airport? Or just simply being in public? If they have such severe allergies, then they are a reaction waiting to happen anywhere in public.
28
BHVBUM - Let me spell it out for you in simple terms. In the waiting room at an airport or anywhere else on the ground you can call an ambulance if your child has a severe reaction. On a plane you can not. Your child could DIE because he can't get to a hospital. No one is asking for anything more than a bit of consideration. Nuts are not the only snack that could be served.
9
Mytwocents, let's spell it out for you.
Any passenger could pick up nut residue from communal furniture, bathrooms, restaurants, shops in the airport and unwittingly transfer a goodly quantity onto the plane. So banning nuts ON the plane is pretty pointless.
In December in a St. Louis airport shop the person ahead of me was buying a half-pound bag of peanuts and it split open, spilling nuts and dust all over the display of gum and candy bars and other items; the clerk got it all over her hands cleaning up -- tranferring it to currency, to the bags used at the register, etc.
Any number of patrons could have carried a large amount of peanut oil onto a plane.
So spare us your sarcasm; BHVBum is absolutely correct.
Any passenger could pick up nut residue from communal furniture, bathrooms, restaurants, shops in the airport and unwittingly transfer a goodly quantity onto the plane. So banning nuts ON the plane is pretty pointless.
In December in a St. Louis airport shop the person ahead of me was buying a half-pound bag of peanuts and it split open, spilling nuts and dust all over the display of gum and candy bars and other items; the clerk got it all over her hands cleaning up -- tranferring it to currency, to the bags used at the register, etc.
Any number of patrons could have carried a large amount of peanut oil onto a plane.
So spare us your sarcasm; BHVBum is absolutely correct.
14
Yes, mytwocents you are exactly correct. As for the criticism that peanut dust residue is everywhere, dose is meaningful. A bit of dust probably won't provoke a reaction, but a whole planeful of nut handling, nut chomping circulating passengers will. It's pretty simple. People with nut allergies do take all possible precautions. Some must fly for work travel. Allergy victims are actually very good at taking care of themselves; that's why plane incidents are rare. The idea is to be a bit conservative with protection; it's easy, and anaphylaxis is deadly and horrible. If we discourage people from telling airlines they have allergies, we will have more urgent situations, and more reactions short of anaphylaxis, such as vomiting and diarrhea. Why?
8
Obviously allegies must be accommodated at schools and nurseries.
There are very few reasons anyone HAS to fly. Particularly childen. Maybe moving overseas; that's about it.
Let Meemaw and Peepaw visit the kids instead of vice versa, take driving vacations, etc. if it's such a hazard. Dragging hundreds of innocent people into your issues is just rude.
There are very few reasons anyone HAS to fly. Particularly childen. Maybe moving overseas; that's about it.
Let Meemaw and Peepaw visit the kids instead of vice versa, take driving vacations, etc. if it's such a hazard. Dragging hundreds of innocent people into your issues is just rude.
32
Apparently nobody else has rights except for you. Keep that in mind when your too old to fly and your just perhaps it's one of your grandchildren with allergies who can't fly.
9
Ah yes, 10 days of driving round trip from LA to NY for a family funeral because you absolutely must have that scrumptious bag of peanuts. Got it.
4
Kids don't need to attend funerals. And if being on the spot for family emergencies is so important, don't move 3,000 miles away from Granny and Grampy. Own your choices.
And it has nothing to do with my desire for a bag of peanuts - it's about trying to foist of responsibility from the parents to the airline and fellow passengers.
And it has nothing to do with my desire for a bag of peanuts - it's about trying to foist of responsibility from the parents to the airline and fellow passengers.
3
I have considered complaining to the crew about dogs (non-service ones) in the cabin, because in an emergency I doubt if the owners would be able to control their dogs. So, my question is, if I complained, who will be ejected?
The airlines should set aside dog/cat sections, like they used to have smoking sections, or even better accommodate them only on certain flights.
The airlines should set aside dog/cat sections, like they used to have smoking sections, or even better accommodate them only on certain flights.
14
Some people are allergic to dogs. I have been astounded by the growing numbers of dogs I've seen on flights.
11
Control their dogs how? What a silly comment.
People with allergies need to know if it is safe for them to travel at all. Not everyone is well enough to travel, and that risk is borne by the passenger alone. There is no constitutional right to travel via any form of public transport, but you may not be banned based on race, gender or creed. A sensible person knows that they will be exposed to allergens, and takes measures to avoid them. I am very allergic to cats, and if a cat is on a plane or train, I get my seat moved. I don't visit homes where cats live, and I do not sit with colleagues at work who have cats. I don't require that the cats are banned from the plane - though this would make great sense! - I don't require that people with cats are hosed down before entering the office. I recognize the symptoms of my own allergy and deal with it. Being sensible is the only way.
22
LuckyDog - Can you die from your cat allergy? My child can DIE from eating peanuts or tree nuts and on an airplane we can't get him to a hospital. Are you saying that's ok with you?
3
I would now appreciate an acrticle from the Times with medically accurate information about peanut allergy and anaphylaxis. There is so much misinformation in these comments; it is irresponsible.
16
I'm not sure about the science of peanut allergies. My brother has it and no one else in the family does. But, I do know that peanuts are not the only possible thing one can eat on a plane. People act like they've taken popcorn out of the movie theater. It's a plane. That small bag of peanuts can easily be substituted with pretzels, or cookies, or bring your own sandwich. Or eat before if you can. We are not dogs, and those are not bells ringing, so no need to salivate over peanuts on a plane. How many times do you even eat peanuts when you're NOT on a plane? Baseball stadium? But not football.
My point is that there is a trade space here for humans to be nice to each other for no other reason than it does not hurt you to do so. Oh, but peanuts are subsidized by the US Government. Maybe there's something going on after all.
My point is that there is a trade space here for humans to be nice to each other for no other reason than it does not hurt you to do so. Oh, but peanuts are subsidized by the US Government. Maybe there's something going on after all.
16
I love flying Delta. The best customer service compared to other US airlines I have flown recently. I do not have a peanut allergy, but I would be fine with eliminating peanuts from all flights.
10
The airlines should be more concerned with alcohol and its ability, through a passenger, to ignite the airplane. Beer and wine, fine. Save the cocktails for after the flight. The airport bars will thank you.
8
I have always thought it odd: we are only allowed a measured amount of liquids on the plane - i.e., makeup, etc. - but alcohol is flammable and abundantly available on planes, especially international flights. Methinks the industry just wanted to reduce the amount of products and luggage with which women travel.
4
A lot is missing from this discussion. Airports are full of food and snack concessions, and travelers eating every variety of food, sitting on the same seats and using the same toilets as allergic travelers do. What good does wiping down a plane seat do if you may already have plenty of nut residue on you before you board?
15
SCA: Parents do the best they can to lessen the risks to their allergic children - knowing that they will be exposed to allergens here and there. The airplane is enclosed with recirculated air and people in very close proximity. You can't call an ambulance if your child is exposed to the allergen and their EpiPen injection doesn't work. Why is eating nuts on a plane such an important part of your life?
6
The problem is not just packaged peanuts but much of the snack type food people bring on planes. Nuts are healthy, people are eating them in many different ways. If a child will go into anaphylactic shock if one person opens a Kind bar on a plane or someone has snacks on a few almonds during the flight, perhaps the airlines have the right idea. Diverting the flight is not fair to anyone on the plane. There are other means of transportation.
21
I am a baby boomer, and my parents methodology was to LEAVE US HOME. If they went to a restaurant, we had a babysitter. If they were visiting friends, we had a babysitter. If they went to the movies, we had a babysitter. No cellphones, nanny cams, etc. And they also did not go out often because THEY HAD CHILDREN.
14
A lot of people are making comments without bothering to read the article. The article isn't about people demanding that airlines stop serving peanuts. (Although that is certainly a popular trope that people cavil endlessly over.)
It is about people getting kicked from flights even though the people are accommodating, bring epi-pens, are willing to sign a waiver, know their own risks, etc. Those people probably know their limitations better than the flight attendants and the captains.
It is about people getting kicked from flights even though the people are accommodating, bring epi-pens, are willing to sign a waiver, know their own risks, etc. Those people probably know their limitations better than the flight attendants and the captains.
9
Does the waiver they sign mean that the plane will never be diverted due to their child's allergic reaction, no matter how severe? Of course not so the waiver is meaningless. And if they are bringing an epi-pen and taking their own risks then why do they need to inform the employees about it. Maybe they just shouldn't fly.
3
I am sick of hearing about nut allergies and the helicopter parenting that goes with it. If your child is so allergic that he will die if he sits in a seat where someone as eaten peanuts, them he should be kept home. If you wiped down the armrest and tray tables but did not vacuum the seat and carpet then the whole job is bogus and has only a psychosomatic effect.
You are turning your child into a coddled invalid. We used to have peanut butter sandwiches at every birthday party. Those who were allergic abstained but still sat with the rest of us. I was on a cruise where a woman was complaining about the menu available to her gluten sensitive daughter. She had just gotten off a ship's cell phone with her husband where she told him to go to the restaurant and order fruit punch to be on the table before their six-year-old daughter arrived. How much of this is an actual food sensitivity or is it the stress on the child caused by super anxious parents? If your kid will end up in the ER because of an allergy, you shouldn't be flying or cruising.
You are turning your child into a coddled invalid. We used to have peanut butter sandwiches at every birthday party. Those who were allergic abstained but still sat with the rest of us. I was on a cruise where a woman was complaining about the menu available to her gluten sensitive daughter. She had just gotten off a ship's cell phone with her husband where she told him to go to the restaurant and order fruit punch to be on the table before their six-year-old daughter arrived. How much of this is an actual food sensitivity or is it the stress on the child caused by super anxious parents? If your kid will end up in the ER because of an allergy, you shouldn't be flying or cruising.
18
S.L. - Seems like you know how to use a computer. At least you used a computer to write your insensitive and sad comment. Do some research. Nut allergies are real and REAL SERIOUS. Gluten sensitivities are not going to kill anyone. Peanut and tree nut allergies will can end in death. On a plane there is no way to get to a hospital. Not eating peanuts around someone who could DIE from ingesting them is just a matter of common human compassion. No one wants to have a peanut allergy and these people are not asking for much in the way of accommodation. Just a bit of information on what will be served on the flight (the ingredients listed clearly would be nice) and if the flight attendant has a choice - not to serve 200 bags of peanuts. It's not that big of a deal unless your life depends on you getting that "free" mini sack of nuts.
8
The same can be requested of scented products worn by passengers. To ease allergy sufferers of perfumes, deodorants, colognes, etc. When does this end?
5
An allergy attack in mid-air can be a serious medical emergency and a major problem for both the airlines and the other passengers. It makes sense that anybody who cant be in a public place without causing dangers to themselves and to others shouldnt be in that public place.
12
Should people with heart disease, high blood pressure, the elderly at risk for circulatory problems or falls stay out of public places too? They are also potentially problematic. At least the allergic take precautions, and the accommodations are easy.
5
I certainly sympathize with those that suffer from severe allergies and I have no overwhelming need to be given peanuts on airplanes, but in all fairness to the airlines, they can't allow everybody special boarding allowances...we already see a problem with service dogs everywhere and the abuse of the system my many people. Also, I doubt very much that many airlines can handle these type of services....for the most part the airlines are incompetent when it comes to enforcing their own guidelines...we see it all the time...I take a soft Patagonia duffle bag on a flight to Tampa Bay with no problem, but on the return flight they say the bag is too big to fit...even though you explain it fit with no problem on the way here....no consistency. I recently had elbow surgery and had to wear a brace...on one flight i can sit in the exit row no problem, but on the next they won't let me...no consistency....aided by a complete lack of effective training.
7
I have seen people board with luggage clearly larger than the supposedly maximum measurements. On a recent trip to Florida, twenty people boarded in wheelchairs. Upon arrival, seventeen walked off the plane. Also, I saw a man with a walker on which he had piled four carry-on bags. I, too, wish the airlines would consistently enforce their rules.
6
It amazes me how many of those people supposedly confined to wheelchairs have scuffed shoes.
1
So tired of every single niche and minority demanding special treatment. The majority of people on the plane would like to get to their destination. The majority do not have peanut allergies, or aversion to gluten or a preference for kale. Peanut allergies are a serious medical condition and flying, as everyone knows, has become anything but a luxury. The last thing people need is to have to stay on a plane indefinitely or be diverted because of a severe allergic reaction. If you didn't want them to know, you shouldn't have told them.
12
atb: so should everyone with a medical condition stay off the plane? the airlines would go out of business. Only a very small portion of medical emergencies on planes are food reactions. Chest pains are the largest complaints - so anyone overweight or with high blood pressure or high cholesterol or maybe over the age of 35 should also be grounded?
5
Not "special" treatment. Humane treatment, compassionate treatment, understanding and accepting of others treatment. That you derogatorily view consideration of others as "special" (especially if they don't find themselves in the majority) is much more a confession of your mean-spirited intolerance than any admission a mother might make that her child suffers from a severe allergy.
8
You still want hundreds of other people to accommodate their behavior to your preferences, for the (arguable) benefit of your child, because you say so.
1
We discovered our son was allergic to peanuts on a flight from Geneva to Madrid when he was three. It was frightening and could have cost him his life. Luckily we had a relatively short flight. I don't think any airline wants the liability of a child's death on a flight because of a measley pack of peanuts. Just serve pretzels. We had no idea that he was allergic, and parents should be rightly cautious. Until you've seen your child completely swollen and unable to breathe thousands of feet up in the air, how could you understand and sympathize? This isn't some kind of game for us.
16
So the airline officially only serves pretels. What about:
-- the waiting areas in the airport. I could sit in a seat there where someone had left peanut dust or smeared a PBJ and unwittingly track residue into the plane. Multiply me x 150 or 200 passengers
- restaurants in the airport, food stands, concessions all sell items with nuts. Many of those items likely to be in passenger bags along with nut products brought from home, or a Reese's cup as a treat, etc.
- items forgotten in bags. I usually have a pack of peanuts to combat low blood sugar -- even if I wanted to comply there might be an open bag of peanuts in my purse, right by your kid's leg or feet, that I had forgotten about.
Expecting everyone to completely cleanse themselves, their baggage, their clothing and bodies of all potential sources of residue is absurd. And risking your kid's life by flying is insane. Where exactly is it so imperative that you go, that you would do so? Even an overseas move can be accomplished via ship. Though that seems risky as well.
Sometimes you have to play the cards you are dealt instead of the ones you hoped for. Insulting the rest of us doesn't help make your case.
-- the waiting areas in the airport. I could sit in a seat there where someone had left peanut dust or smeared a PBJ and unwittingly track residue into the plane. Multiply me x 150 or 200 passengers
- restaurants in the airport, food stands, concessions all sell items with nuts. Many of those items likely to be in passenger bags along with nut products brought from home, or a Reese's cup as a treat, etc.
- items forgotten in bags. I usually have a pack of peanuts to combat low blood sugar -- even if I wanted to comply there might be an open bag of peanuts in my purse, right by your kid's leg or feet, that I had forgotten about.
Expecting everyone to completely cleanse themselves, their baggage, their clothing and bodies of all potential sources of residue is absurd. And risking your kid's life by flying is insane. Where exactly is it so imperative that you go, that you would do so? Even an overseas move can be accomplished via ship. Though that seems risky as well.
Sometimes you have to play the cards you are dealt instead of the ones you hoped for. Insulting the rest of us doesn't help make your case.
16
I didn't notice her insulting anyone. If you believe strongly that you should have the right to eat whatever you want whenever you want -- then do it. You don't need to put down parents who are just terrified for their child.
2
Also, helicopter parenting has nothing to do with severe peanut allergy; writers display their ignorance when they make this assertion. I have two children; the older one ate loads of peanut butter, as did husband/self. Our younger son was made sick by the smell of even small amounts of peanut. To my eternal shame, we teased him about being "delicate". Of course, it turned out that upon ingesting peanut accidentally (in a cookie proffered by a friend) he experienced vomiting, diarrhea, swelling of the mouth, difficulty breathing. His doctor diagnosed a severe allergy. He carries epi-pens, he travels, he lived in dorms in college, he's been on many athletic teams ( where peanut butter is the staff of life). We are lucky that in all these situations people have agreed happily and willingly to accommodate him by being careful. They are decent and kind.
If you have ever witnessed anaphylaxis, you understand how serious it is. You also understand that quality of parenting has nothing to do with it.
If you have ever witnessed anaphylaxis, you understand how serious it is. You also understand that quality of parenting has nothing to do with it.
25
I have a question. What is it about nuts, and not only that, what is it with the rise in the number of people susceptible to nut poisoning? I am not very old - 50 - but I remember not too long ago that a peanut allergy was something out of the ordinary from which not too many people suffered. And I have always lived in a metropolitan area containing millions of people.
So no:
1) I am not mistaken.
2) I do now and have always had contact with thousands of people on a daily basis.
3) I am not liberal, in a pejorative sense.
4) I am not insensitive.
On a lighter note, I know two specific people who claim to have the "celiac" thing going on. One complains incessantly about how he suspects everything he ate previously was somehow "mildly glutinous" but has no problem being around bread (its only a problem if I eat it, he said) )while the other swears he cannot be near any type of gluten, crumbs or dust, lest he break out in "wheat sores." They may be extreme cases, but that is what the rise in peuant poisoning seems to me today: A rise in, not so much in hysteria, but in a heightened awareness of how these things do not affect people.
So no:
1) I am not mistaken.
2) I do now and have always had contact with thousands of people on a daily basis.
3) I am not liberal, in a pejorative sense.
4) I am not insensitive.
On a lighter note, I know two specific people who claim to have the "celiac" thing going on. One complains incessantly about how he suspects everything he ate previously was somehow "mildly glutinous" but has no problem being around bread (its only a problem if I eat it, he said) )while the other swears he cannot be near any type of gluten, crumbs or dust, lest he break out in "wheat sores." They may be extreme cases, but that is what the rise in peuant poisoning seems to me today: A rise in, not so much in hysteria, but in a heightened awareness of how these things do not affect people.
9
Nah, if you've ever seen anaphylaxis you know it's not "heightened awareness" but a life threatening emergency. If you saw someone having a heart attack would you think it was hysteria or heightened awareness? Serious allergy is no different. I hope the NY times will publish an article to dispel the ignorance and confusion regarding peanut allergy, and to divorce a very real health concern from dangerous politicization. Those who view life threatening allergies as the result of oversesitivity or bad parent are less likely to show the caution and consideration a child or adult with a peanut allergy deserves. I would gladly forgo any particular food for a few hours to protect the life of a fellow citizen. It saddens me deeply that so many commenters here would not.
4
I just read the US Constitution and I'd like to tell all of you that there is no "right to fly" that I could find. So, if the airline wants to discriminate on this basis that's their right. Frankly my experience travelling tells me that this is mostly a way to get on board early so that their large caches of carryon's can be stored overhead. It is absurd to think that anyone with a life threatening nut allergy would think that getting on a plane would be safe.
22
The constitution doesn't guarantee you the right to eat peanuts on a plane, either.
Americans are all about rights but never want to shoulder responsibilities. Compassion is no longer a thing, either.
Americans are all about rights but never want to shoulder responsibilities. Compassion is no longer a thing, either.
1
Does the Americans with Disabilities Act not apply to airlines?
11
Does the ADA apply to hypochondria?
5
"Reasonable accommodation." Changing the routine of 100 or 200 strangers is not reasonble.
3
I don't really care about not being served peanuts but as a person who prefers to bring his own food on long flights I don't like the idea of being forbidden to bring a peanut butter and banana sandwich, the best food for staving off hunger for long periods especially for vegetarians and vegans (although I don't count myself among their number). If explicitly forbidden I would respect the law but I wouldn't like it.
As others have pointed out the problem of nut allergies will likely become less over time as new recommendations are followed regarding desensitizing babies to them. Hopefully in a decade or two the problem will vanish.
As others have pointed out the problem of nut allergies will likely become less over time as new recommendations are followed regarding desensitizing babies to them. Hopefully in a decade or two the problem will vanish.
22
What in heaven's name is wrong with almond butter, cashew butter, or some other nut butter?
1
Nothing, except some people don't like it as much and given the fact that there is no advance warning that helicopter parents and little sweetums will be on the flight it is not reasonable to expect people to use it.
1
You could eat sunflower butter if you are flying. It's great with banana's on it and it won't cause an allergic reaction of a person wit peanut and tree but allergies.
1
Airplanes are SO full of peanut residue, it is inconceivable that anyone with a genuine peanut allergy would be protected from the peanut residue all over an airplane simply by wiping down their own seat. Seriously.
I'm allergic to having 1/2 of my seat occupied by someone who paid for one seat but should have paid for two. So, I get to enjoy their sweaty flesh pressed against me for 3 hours, and I'm forced to spend a good part of the flight in the aisle because of the pain that comes with sitting in what amounts to 1/2 a seat.
I'm allergic to having 1/2 of my seat occupied by someone who paid for one seat but should have paid for two. So, I get to enjoy their sweaty flesh pressed against me for 3 hours, and I'm forced to spend a good part of the flight in the aisle because of the pain that comes with sitting in what amounts to 1/2 a seat.
24
Downplaying the severity of potentially life-threatening -- read that again, life-threatening -- allergies by complaining about your momentary discomfort is a really stupid thing to do.
3
He didn't downplay it. He pointed out that even if peanuts are not served on a particular flight they were served on several prior flights of that plane and there are likely peanut crumbs and dust everywhere. It is a good point, which makes one think that someone eating peanuts not immediately adjacent to the allergic person would not really be a threat.
1
What happens if a passenger brings a PB&J sandwich on the flight, as I often do? Does having a peanut-allergic passenger on the same flight mean I have to forgo my food for the entire duration? I'm a strict vegan, and the airlines rarely have anything available in Economy that is suitable, so I pack my own. There aren't many things besides PB&J that can get through security and not go bad for 10 hours. And if I switch to, say, cashew butter instead of peanut butter, what's to say there won't be a tree-nut-allergic passenger on the flight?
41
Jay, please stop. Im barely able to contain myself.
I would hate to think you would have to forgo your PB&J sandwich.
Oh the humanity....
I would hate to think you would have to forgo your PB&J sandwich.
Oh the humanity....
1
You are nitpicking. It is the airlines that serve all the passengers all flights, all throughout the flight, that are the problem: nuts everywhere. Just serve other snacks and let the nut people deal individually with other passengers. Most passengers are caring and come up alternative solutions we can all deal with. Think. Care. Common Sense.
4
It would be highly appreciated by people like me if you could try to find another food to pack. My child was born with allergies to nuts, and people do no realize that anaphylactic reactions can be fatal. If you're up in the air without emergency room access, it can be extremely dangerous. Unfortunately we live in a world where we have to fly, and while we try to avoid flying, sometimes we don't have a choice, just like we didn't choose to have a child afflicted with nut allergies. Not that I'm telling you what to eat but if you are open to options other than peanut butter, there is sunbutter, which is pretty good (and looks a lot like peanut butter).
6
The airlines are booting nut-allergic passengers due to fear of litigation.
A passenger alerts the flight attendant to a nut allergy. In mid-flight, the oblivious passenger behind him cracks open a brown-bagged PBJ. The nut allergic passenger goes into anaphylactic shock, and promptly sues the airline for $167 million, citing trauma and emotional distress. The plantiff's attorney belabors the fact that the airline was *notified* of the nut allergy, yet failed to strip search every passenger for nuts, products containing nuts or processed in a facility that processes nuts, nut butters, or nut residue, and that this constitutes clear and wilful negligence. Maybe the flight attendant made an announcement regarding the allergy, but the PBJ guy was listening to Johnny Thunders on his headphones and only speaks Latvian in any case. Airline seeks to forestall the entire scenario by booting the passenger straight away when they are notified of the allergy. Blame the U.S. tort process, not the airlines.
A passenger alerts the flight attendant to a nut allergy. In mid-flight, the oblivious passenger behind him cracks open a brown-bagged PBJ. The nut allergic passenger goes into anaphylactic shock, and promptly sues the airline for $167 million, citing trauma and emotional distress. The plantiff's attorney belabors the fact that the airline was *notified* of the nut allergy, yet failed to strip search every passenger for nuts, products containing nuts or processed in a facility that processes nuts, nut butters, or nut residue, and that this constitutes clear and wilful negligence. Maybe the flight attendant made an announcement regarding the allergy, but the PBJ guy was listening to Johnny Thunders on his headphones and only speaks Latvian in any case. Airline seeks to forestall the entire scenario by booting the passenger straight away when they are notified of the allergy. Blame the U.S. tort process, not the airlines.
152
The airlines get the shaft in the media for everything, and I do mean everything. In our society of entitlement how would you go about herding millions of people all over the world? They have to make split second decisions and sometimes they are in the wrong, other times they do the best with the information they have been given. I think they do everything they can to accommodate people but, after being given information about the severe food allergy, they had to make the decision to either deplane the people while safely on the ground, or risk having an inflight medical emergency that might cause a diversion, and a plane load of angry people with missed connections. If the dad told them he had the medication after the fact, then why did he even bring the issue up in the first place?
24
The reason the airlines "get the shaft" (very eloquent by the way...) is that they're constantly sticking it to the passengers.
Luggage fees
Seat assignment fees
Cramped seats
Foul air (all in the interest of cutting costs)
Cramped lavatories
Disgusting and disgustingly expemsive food
And you call that entitlement... How fashionable of yoy.
Luggage fees
Seat assignment fees
Cramped seats
Foul air (all in the interest of cutting costs)
Cramped lavatories
Disgusting and disgustingly expemsive food
And you call that entitlement... How fashionable of yoy.
2
You bring up a good point: entitlement. The people that can't refrain from eating peanuts on a flight are seriously entitled. As another commenter said, it's not like peanuts are necessary in order to fly!
1
The obvious solution is to serve another snack; problem solved.
Two tips;
1. Read the airline policy re allergies on their website; if they ask for advance notice of your travel plan (often 2weeks), give them notice. Big shoutout to Southwest and JetBlue; they are terrific in my experience.
2. My son has a severe peanut allergy; one of his exposure symptoms is projectile vomiting. If someone near him on a flight is consuming peanuts, he will politely mention this. Most people (all people) are very accommodating.
Contrary to what many seem to believe, peanuts are not essential for flight, aerodynamically speaking.
1. Read the airline policy re allergies on their website; if they ask for advance notice of your travel plan (often 2weeks), give them notice. Big shoutout to Southwest and JetBlue; they are terrific in my experience.
2. My son has a severe peanut allergy; one of his exposure symptoms is projectile vomiting. If someone near him on a flight is consuming peanuts, he will politely mention this. Most people (all people) are very accommodating.
Contrary to what many seem to believe, peanuts are not essential for flight, aerodynamically speaking.
30
In other words, you threaten them to get your way. Nice!
No, he politely informs them about one of the actual, milder, consequences of his allergy. He accurately tells them about what happens. He is nice, by the way, and he is an adult, who flies only when he can't avoid it.
People really are always nice about helping him out, which is greatly appreciated.
People really are always nice about helping him out, which is greatly appreciated.
1
If you are so sensitive to peanuts or products containing them, wear a paper face mask. It may protect you from getting sick from other things too.
Or the only other option is to fly 'Peanut-Free Airways'. In other words, don't fly.
Take a bus or train. But be aware people eat peanut products on buses and trains too.
Or the only other option is to fly 'Peanut-Free Airways'. In other words, don't fly.
Take a bus or train. But be aware people eat peanut products on buses and trains too.
39
Clearly you have no such allergies. Sometimes the only option is to fly and not eating nuts is such a minor inconvenience for others. There's no reason why people should be so selfish. And no, I don't have any allergies whatsoever.
6
spoken like a true Trumpist.
I won't even bother trying to reason with you.
I won't even bother trying to reason with you.
3
You are really insensitive. My 34 yr old son has been allergic to tree nuts since he was 3 yrs old and allergic to peanuts since he was 12 yrs old. He's been in anaphylactic shock 7 times over the years. Five of those times it was from so called friends not believing him and were testing him. The seventh time at the ER the epinephrine almost killed him. Now he refuses to eat anything that his friends offer him. He could be sitting in a movie theater and someone a few rows over are eating nuts and he has to get up and leave because his throat begins to swell. It's a real emergency I hope you never have to experience. You can become allergic to food anytime in your lifetime. Beware of seafood because it may cause an anaphylactic shock at anytime! You could eat it 99 times and that 100th time it may get you.
8
In a 2005 NIH study, "parents reported that 7 percent of kids under age 3, 10 percent who were age 3, and 8 percent over 3 had food allergies. But when researchers tested those kids to confirm these self-reported diagnoses, there were no confirmed cases under 3, only 2 percent at age 3, and 1 percent over age 3. Other studies have shown similarly large discrepancies between what parents believe about food allergies and what tests confirm."
46
Rough two children in every classroom have an allergy. 1/15 or 6%.
I understand the issue here. What about people allergic to fragrances which causes asthma exacerbation? Now we have to address a situation largely outside the control of the airlines.
16
Came to say something similar to "bruce" about fragrance allergies - and for that matter, any number of allergies and stimuli. We live in a complex world, and I'm unclear on why it's increasingly the responsibility of everyone-but-the-patient to accommodate a random allergy.
2
II have nut allergies. It usually involves these people who seem to be allergic to everything. Maybe they need their own airline. Gluten Free, Peanut free, fat free, caffeine free, could all be accommodated without annoying the rest of us.
13
Wow, the unkindness of the masses. Perhaps we with allergies are better off dead.
2
Why not switch to another snack besides peanuts? We all know it's one of the scariest allergies around, when it's present.
I am all for people understanding that their unique risks can't be guaranteed against -- and airlines are just avoiding liability, especially since they have a plane to keep afloat and clearly do not need the burden of policing what passengers eat -- but there are a zillion alternatives to peanuts when it comes to snacking. Not hard. Buy and distribute those yummy rye snacks instead.
I am all for people understanding that their unique risks can't be guaranteed against -- and airlines are just avoiding liability, especially since they have a plane to keep afloat and clearly do not need the burden of policing what passengers eat -- but there are a zillion alternatives to peanuts when it comes to snacking. Not hard. Buy and distribute those yummy rye snacks instead.
10
I have allergies to fruits and veggies too. Perhaps the airlines could ban those, according to your reasoning? Funny thing, I am not allergic to peanuts, and for 11+ years ate a peanut butter sandwich for at least 1 meal a day.
I think gummy bears is a winner:)
3
I'm not unsympathetic, but these are the same parents, in some cases, who insist that their children also go with them to expensive restaurants, and feel no compunction at ruining someone else's meal when their children act like, well, children. Obviously, nut allergies are real, but if wiping down the seat and taking meds is not enough, then you probably can't use a public vehicle? Otherwise, one ought to be able to quietly take the appropriate steps? Would these same people sue if something went wrong? Possibly.
17
DrB, let me enlighten you, althougbI expect I'll be wasting my time.
Then again, perhaps a more onjectively minded reader will pick up on what I write.
"public vehicles" dont routinely serve peanuts....
Then again, perhaps a more onjectively minded reader will pick up on what I write.
"public vehicles" dont routinely serve peanuts....
1
You are correct, I can't take my son to any restaurant, public places or public transportation, even going to public school is difficult. But there is only one way to travel by air, and that is by plane. Peanuts affect a lot of people especially children that can kill them. Honestly, can the airline serve something else - I don't think this is too much to ask.
In both the ADA and Section 504, a person with a disability is someone who has a physical or mental impairment that seriously limits one or more major life activities, or who is regarded as having such impairments. Asthma and allergies are usually considered disabilities under the ADA.
In both the ADA and Section 504, a person with a disability is someone who has a physical or mental impairment that seriously limits one or more major life activities, or who is regarded as having such impairments. Asthma and allergies are usually considered disabilities under the ADA.
2
The lack of compassion from commenters is truly astounding.
38
Another pearl-clutcher. Go cry somewhere else.
8
I'm with the airlines on this one.
32
Perhaps if your child were alergic....
1
Hypochondria. There has never been a case of anyone with a nut allergy having any kind of reaction from peanuts or any other nut being eaten on a plane. Stop catering to these people and their absurd fears.
12
Wow, I hope nobody in your family ever gets a severe allergy.
1
Shane, Excuse me but you're an imbecile. I hope someone in your family does have a severe food allergy - most of all that you yourself develop one.
4
I just want everyone to pause a minute here and remember that mytwocents has been up and down this board accusing people of being insensitive to dying children. We here see her fully unveiled.
2
Having an in-flight medical emergency due to allergic reaction is an avoidable problem when knowing about a passenger's problem beforehand, which explains the heavy-handed policy of some of the airlines noted. Yes, it's a low percentage of the total number of emergencies, but that just makes them easier to target, as opposed to, say, giving the heave-ho to all passengers with cardiovascular problems, which might empty a third of the plane. Risk-avoidance is one of the mantras of the air travel industry for obvious reasons; when you consider the costs and consequences of diverting a flight due to something that could have been stopped at the beginning, it becomes more understandable, if no less discriminatory.
8
No airline can guaranty that any aircraft is nut free. Perhaps they can manufacture brand new nut free plane for which you can buy tickets for 70k a piece.
23
This from the National Institutes of Health just 3 weeks ago: "[S]cientific research has demonstrated that introducing peanut-containing foods into the diet during infancy can prevent the development of peanut allergy. . .The expert panel recommends that these infants [deemed at high risk] have peanut-containing foods introduced into their diets as early as 4 to 6 months of age. . .that infants with mild or moderate eczema should have peanut-containing foods introduced into their diets around 6 months of age . . .that infants without eczema or any food allergy have peanut-containing foods freely introduced into their diets." The rise in peanut allergies is likely due to lack of early exposure. So let's end (or significantly reduce) peanut and other allergies by encouraging infants to eat everything. Like our parents used to.
12
I'll never forget the peanut story I heard from Sudan. Yes, I know it's not an airplane, but bear with me.
During the droughts, unrest and all-out war a humanitarian crisis of starving men, women, and especially children threatened and killed an estimate two million lives. Million with an "M."
However, an almost miraculous method of quickly reviving the children came from a product: a mix of peanut butter, chocolate, natural fats, and tons of carbohydrates (and protein from nut base, and additives) was fed to children whose bodies responded in miraculous ways, saving them from starvation.
The Journalist from America, with camera rolling, leaned forward earnestly at the news of the contents of the 'miracle food' to stop starvation in children.
"And what do you do about those children with nut allergies" she said, apparently having pride in her question.
The doctor paused an interminable beat, and then another, and another...then fixed her with a withering look. "We don't have trouble with food allergies here. We have a problem with people dying from lack of it."
The journalist looked down, quickly.
I believe I saw shame on her face.
Ah, the special and the special, who need the entire world around them to
During the droughts, unrest and all-out war a humanitarian crisis of starving men, women, and especially children threatened and killed an estimate two million lives. Million with an "M."
However, an almost miraculous method of quickly reviving the children came from a product: a mix of peanut butter, chocolate, natural fats, and tons of carbohydrates (and protein from nut base, and additives) was fed to children whose bodies responded in miraculous ways, saving them from starvation.
The Journalist from America, with camera rolling, leaned forward earnestly at the news of the contents of the 'miracle food' to stop starvation in children.
"And what do you do about those children with nut allergies" she said, apparently having pride in her question.
The doctor paused an interminable beat, and then another, and another...then fixed her with a withering look. "We don't have trouble with food allergies here. We have a problem with people dying from lack of it."
The journalist looked down, quickly.
I believe I saw shame on her face.
Ah, the special and the special, who need the entire world around them to
18
So, the point of your story is that my son's life-threatening peanut allergy is fake? Care to call my allergist?
The uninformed should do a little research maybe before they comment.
The uninformed should do a little research maybe before they comment.
2
No, we're saying that you should not risk your child's life on an airplane when thanks to excessive demands on it, there is widespread compassion fatigue.
1
Your allergist needs to rejoin your cult. Along with you psychiatrist.
I have been on several Delta flights where an announcement was made regarding a passenger with a peanut allergy. I certainly don't mind accommodating these passengers. BUT, other passengers need to be informed before they board the plane that peanuts are forbidden. When I buy my tickets, I'm told that I can't bring matches or a Galaxy Note7, not that I can't bring peanuts.
Before boarding one flight, I purchased a sandwich to eat on board. The sandwich contained Thai peanut sauce. I was left with the choice of not eating my planned meal at all, asking the flight attendant how far away I was from the person with the allergy, and will the fumes from my sandwich cause a health crisis, or just eating it on the sly.
Let us know ahead of time, or ban peanuts entirely.
Before boarding one flight, I purchased a sandwich to eat on board. The sandwich contained Thai peanut sauce. I was left with the choice of not eating my planned meal at all, asking the flight attendant how far away I was from the person with the allergy, and will the fumes from my sandwich cause a health crisis, or just eating it on the sly.
Let us know ahead of time, or ban peanuts entirely.
14
No, I don't think that's fair, either. I think you should have just eaten your sandwich. The plane is for EVERYONE, not one person. You paid your ticket, you should be able to enjoy your meal.
6
Thank you for your compassion and considerations
1
Even if it kills someone, like my son! Because eating a sandwich is that important.
Really, these comments are infuriating. No one's asking you to fast for 40 days and 40 nights.
It was nice of Magdalena to ask. It would have been safe for her to eat her sandwich if she was a few rows away from the person with the allergy. If she was sitting near me, I would have gladly offered to pay for her sandwich and for something from the airline. It's only the health of my son, after all.
Really, these comments are infuriating. No one's asking you to fast for 40 days and 40 nights.
It was nice of Magdalena to ask. It would have been safe for her to eat her sandwich if she was a few rows away from the person with the allergy. If she was sitting near me, I would have gladly offered to pay for her sandwich and for something from the airline. It's only the health of my son, after all.
3
I'm a little confused on how people with family members known to be severely allergic--to anything--can possibly get through security without their Epi-Pen or other allergy medicine being discovered. Won't they be asked about that?
And if they're not traveling with such emergency supplies, why?
And if they're not traveling with such emergency supplies, why?
9
I travel with two EpiPens. The TSA knows what they are.
1
My son travels with his Epi-pen and it's declared. It's also mentioned when the tickets are purchased your comments are pointless
1
We are allowed to keep our benedryl and epipen - but have you seen a person go into shock - do you want that type of emergency on a plane? The use of an Epipen doesn't guarantee your life will be saved - this is not an easy shot to take. It is a traumatic, life event that can result in death and extremely difficult to the person experiencing it.
2
So many people have allergies to nuts but yet this still serve it on planes. My son is violently allergic to all nuts- and it is a challenge to be on a plane that has not been wiped down, to use the bathroom or touch the overhead bin.
This is a risk to people's lives and if you have incident it can be a life or death event. I don't think the airline should have the right to send people or take people off the plane, allergies are covered under the ADA and the airlines are mandated by law to make accommodations for those persons with disabilities.
Also folks bring cats on plane, guess what a lot of us are allergic to cats - they should not be allowed on planes either.
This is a risk to people's lives and if you have incident it can be a life or death event. I don't think the airline should have the right to send people or take people off the plane, allergies are covered under the ADA and the airlines are mandated by law to make accommodations for those persons with disabilities.
Also folks bring cats on plane, guess what a lot of us are allergic to cats - they should not be allowed on planes either.
5
I don't know anyone allergic to nuts. I don't like nuts, but I don't care about this non-issue. If you have a problem, then you need to take care of it accordingly. The entire world cannot change to accommodate your special needs.
7
Perhaps people with such problems need to find alternative means of transportation...
7
Hey backseat lawyer, I am sure the airlines have spent ample time and money looking into their ADA compliance. If you can't fly because you might die if exposed to a common food, then YOU should reconsider your travel plans.
4
The fear of a serious allergic reaction from casual contact to peanuts is not rooted in medical science. http://www.jacionline.org/article/S0091-6749(03)01120-5/abstract
8
Did you read even the abstract? They studied 30 kids only, and they state that their conclusions apply only to peanut BUTTER, not to peanut flour or peanuts.
Weren't we talking about peanuts?
Weren't we talking about peanuts?
1
Please tell that to the anguished parents of children who died as a result of "casual contact" with peanuts. And, incidentally, vaccines don't cause autism and the earth is round.
In reply to Aaron Dora-Laskey Alma, MI
In reply to Aaron Dora-Laskey Alma, MI
1
Really perhaps you would like to speak with my sons allergist. It's REAL
2
If I want to eat nuts, I'm eating them. You are not going to impose your allergy restrictions on me. Not in public, not in a bus, nor train or plane. If you have an allergy, it is *your* responsibility to deal with it, not mine. Take wipes and a mask with you and you'll be just fine. If that's too much for you, stay home or travel in your personal automobile.
31
And stay off of my lawn, you darn kids!
1
Everyone I know, myself included, travels with their own nut supply. Nuts are not as sugary and salty as cookies and pretzels and they,re full of protein. What better snack to have on hand if an emergency leaves you stuck on the tarmac for hours.
This is a slippery slope in a time when half of the country is self diagnosing with lactose and gluten intolerances. Next thing you know we'll all be eaten no gluten free, lactose free, vegan meals on flowers guts whether we like it or not.
This is a slippery slope in a time when half of the country is self diagnosing with lactose and gluten intolerances. Next thing you know we'll all be eaten no gluten free, lactose free, vegan meals on flowers guts whether we like it or not.
3
Jack, I take it you voted for Trump.
4
I can see why the airline took them off the plane. Two grown teenagers with severe allergies. If one had a reaction the chances are that the other one would too, if they were exposed to an environmental allergen. The the flight crew would have to deal with two medical emergencies. Considering the parent's current law suit the airline would probably have a suit to deal with if something happened on the flight.
21
Frankly the airlines do have a right to permit that a passenger not fly whether it is because of allergies or a bad respiratory cough.
5
Why not just ban nuts on the plane? Problem solved.
9
Because other travelers will bring them and consume them. Hard to search every bag and person preboarding.
2
Exactly. Give free beer and wine instead!!!
why do you hate crazy people?
1
There is a cray standard in this country. Someone with a nut allergy can ask that no nuts be served, and Delta will comply. However, a person who has some garbage need for a "service" cat has to be allowed, by law, to have that cat on board with them, no real documentation needed, despite my allergy to cats.
Our country has gone crazy bending over backwards for people with outlandish needs such as comfort animals at the expense of the needs and comforts of everyone else.
Our country has gone crazy bending over backwards for people with outlandish needs such as comfort animals at the expense of the needs and comforts of everyone else.
89
I think a "cat allergy" is an outlandish need. Most people are not allergic to cats, peanuts, dogs, gluten, fresh air, stale air, dander, alcohol or abortion. So people with these special needs maybe should just stay home. I am very tired of kow-towing to the minority.
1/3 of the students in ultra-weathy Greenwich CT claim disabilities. This often gives them extra time to complete SAT tests.
It seems ADA is out of control. Lets hope that Trump will put reform of ADA on his agenda.
It seems ADA is out of control. Lets hope that Trump will put reform of ADA on his agenda.
3
The ADA is a bonanza for lawyers. They now go to google maps and look for hotels without a lift to put wheelchairs into pools, then sue on behalf of some wheelchair-bound "professional client."
If you wonder why we have Trump, this is why. Society is out of control.
If you wonder why we have Trump, this is why. Society is out of control.
2
This only became a problem when everyone started flying everywhere, all the time. Hey families - instead of jetting off to Trieste, why not drive to the Adirondacks for your vacay?
In previous decades, I don't remember many reports of people dying in-flight because they happened to touch a microscopic piece of peanut dust. Help me out here.
In previous decades, I don't remember many reports of people dying in-flight because they happened to touch a microscopic piece of peanut dust. Help me out here.
37
Hey Jen, im quite willing to help you out here.
Why not drive to the adirondacks....
Why not drive to the adirondacks....
1
How do you know everyone with allergies is flying for vacation, rather than visiting relatives, for instance?
1
If visiting cousin Slobin in Trieste is worth risking your kid's life, fly on.
1
Bear with me, there's a point here somewhere, I'm sure of it:
The Australian doctor had just been asked by an enterprising journalist about the 'miracle food' that was reviving the children of Sudan, who were enduring starvation along with two million others.
Based on pnut butter, sugar, chocolate, every carbohydrate the could find. Children revived!
"And what do you do about those children with peanut allergies... food allergies," she explained, to a doctor no less. Our journalist seemed somewhat proud of her clever, insightful moment.
The doctor fixed her with a withering gaze. She had seen things this journalist couldn't imagine in her protected space of abundance and entitlement. She had fought together with a people who didn't have the luxury of special considerations. She had had enough, apparently.
A beat passed after the question, then another...the journalist squirmed.
"Uh...yes," she said, getting up. "Well, we don't have trouble with any food allergies here. We have trouble with food. Not enough of it."
"But..." the journalist stammered.
"No one here has died from p-nuts," the doctor said.
She left abruptly, leaving the journalist with her mouth open.
For whatever reason, I don't remember a single child in any of my classes complaining of pnut butter allergies. Not one. Sometimes, I think parents and children just want to be noticed, and special. It's entirely human, and common, and historically so. The illnesses just change over time.
The Australian doctor had just been asked by an enterprising journalist about the 'miracle food' that was reviving the children of Sudan, who were enduring starvation along with two million others.
Based on pnut butter, sugar, chocolate, every carbohydrate the could find. Children revived!
"And what do you do about those children with peanut allergies... food allergies," she explained, to a doctor no less. Our journalist seemed somewhat proud of her clever, insightful moment.
The doctor fixed her with a withering gaze. She had seen things this journalist couldn't imagine in her protected space of abundance and entitlement. She had fought together with a people who didn't have the luxury of special considerations. She had had enough, apparently.
A beat passed after the question, then another...the journalist squirmed.
"Uh...yes," she said, getting up. "Well, we don't have trouble with any food allergies here. We have trouble with food. Not enough of it."
"But..." the journalist stammered.
"No one here has died from p-nuts," the doctor said.
She left abruptly, leaving the journalist with her mouth open.
For whatever reason, I don't remember a single child in any of my classes complaining of pnut butter allergies. Not one. Sometimes, I think parents and children just want to be noticed, and special. It's entirely human, and common, and historically so. The illnesses just change over time.
60
They are noticing that if children are exposed to peanuts and other nuts at a very early age it can prevent the allergies from ever forming.
Aren't you lucky never to have contact with someone's life threatening allergy. I am not so lucky. My son has a fatal allergy to peanuts. The biggest issue I've encountered is ill meaning unintentionally silly comments made by uninformed people. You need to walk the walk to have and make comments
4
Probably the absence of kids with peanut allergies in your Good Old Days of Yore meant that either the kids died, or they were kept on homebound instruction due to a life-threatening medical condition, as there were no epi-pens available.
There are no reliable food allergy statistics from much of the world. Here is some of what is known:
https://waojournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1939-4551-6-21
And did you ever think that maybe genetics is partly responsible for certain populations having a tendency to develop allergies toward particular foods?
There are no reliable food allergy statistics from much of the world. Here is some of what is known:
https://waojournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1939-4551-6-21
And did you ever think that maybe genetics is partly responsible for certain populations having a tendency to develop allergies toward particular foods?
3
I know kids with severe peanut allergies. I, for one, am willing to forgo the 12 peanuts the airlines are so willing to give out, peanuts don't appease my anger over having to pay baggage fees anyway!
19
I don't even like peanuts and didn't know that airlines still served them. But what about ball games and other events that serve peanuts? Should they be banned there, too? At what point does the majority get to enjoy their plans without always having to be mindful of every single disease and allergy out there?
6
It's less of a problem on the ground because after I inject myself with an Epi_pen or 2, I can get to an ER quickly. Much more difficult at 30,000 feet.
1
The bigger question, how does Dr. Bloom know Ms Rabin to get this article written?
Tired of the "disgruntled" customer routine. Every time I turn around, someone is complaining, mostly to make life easier for themselves at the expense of hundreds of others.
Tired of the "disgruntled" customer routine. Every time I turn around, someone is complaining, mostly to make life easier for themselves at the expense of hundreds of others.
22
Presumably, George, you are never disgruntled and complain about anything... oh wait, you are a disgruntled customer (reader) complaining about this informative article, which is of interest to hundreds of others. What gives you more rights to complain than anyone else?
2
These are the same people who because their precious child is allergic to peanuts, 2,000 kids in a school district can no longer eat peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, something my son was happy to eat just about every single day for a few years.
26
If your son and his classmates are still alive, his awful sacrifice was not in vain.
2
Wow, it must suck to be a kid today. They also don't let them have cupcakes or parties for Valentine's Day (because someone might be left out!)...It's sooo precious. And then they grow up and think they're special. I pity future employers.
2
Just because it can KILL the kids with allergies, Joseph. Meanwhile, it doesn't KILL you or your kid to refrain from having your kid eat peanut butter at school. It simply inconveniences you. Maybe you should try finding some empathy somewhere.
4
More and more people, mostly children, are being diagnosed with peanut and tree nut allergies. While we do not know exactly why this is happening, we do know one way to treat it--prevent them from coming into contact with nuts because nuts can kill them.
Airlines do not need to serve nuts to passengers--they can serve popcorn, pretzels, fruit bars, granola bars, or any variety of snacks that do not contain nuts. Airlines accommodate all kinds of disabilities--and that's what a severe allergy to nuts is; if the US Department of Transportation fails to direct airlines
to accommodate these passengers, courts will.
Airlines do not need to serve nuts to passengers--they can serve popcorn, pretzels, fruit bars, granola bars, or any variety of snacks that do not contain nuts. Airlines accommodate all kinds of disabilities--and that's what a severe allergy to nuts is; if the US Department of Transportation fails to direct airlines
to accommodate these passengers, courts will.
8
We dont?
Ask Monsanto or DuPont.
Ask Monsanto or DuPont.
We know exactly why this is happening. Overprotective parents are bringing up their kids in a bubble safe from everything that can harm them including peanuts with bad advice from American doctors.
American Pediatricians Association has now recommended that nuts be introduced to infants as young as 4 months to prevent nut allergies.
Airlines have not served peanuts for many many years.
American Pediatricians Association has now recommended that nuts be introduced to infants as young as 4 months to prevent nut allergies.
Airlines have not served peanuts for many many years.
3
Once again, Americans and their love of litigation. What if someone is allergic to popcorn? Ot your perfume? Or shoe leather? Where does it stop?
3
It does not seem reasonable for people with nut allergies to ask everyone on the plane not to eat their nuts. Many airlines do not serve peanuts anymore but that doesn't prevent individual travelers from bringing their own. People who have severe peanut allergies will have a reaction even even if someone who is 10 rows away from them are eating nuts (airflow). Airlines can't make people not eat their own foods.
I would add that people who are allergic to pet hair also have equal rights to complain but we allow people to travel with their pets.
I would add that people who are allergic to pet hair also have equal rights to complain but we allow people to travel with their pets.
18
"People who have severe peanut allergies will have a reaction even even if someone who is 10 rows away from them are eating nuts (airflow)."
That is simply not true.
That is simply not true.
Actually, it is quite reasonable to ask people to delay eating their nuts until they are off the plane... unless you have a life-threatening condition that requires you to eat nuts during the flight.
There are many situations where people are not allowed to bring and eat their own food in flight. An obvious one: you can't bring your own liquids into the passenger cabin.
Travelers should avoid bringing nut foods to eat on planes, knowing that they can risk harming others. It's the sophisticated and considerate thing to do.
There are many situations where people are not allowed to bring and eat their own food in flight. An obvious one: you can't bring your own liquids into the passenger cabin.
Travelers should avoid bringing nut foods to eat on planes, knowing that they can risk harming others. It's the sophisticated and considerate thing to do.
3
What is this obsession with pets? I don't like flying with babies- they smell. My dog is better behaved than most children, too. If you are demanding special treatment, then what is to prevent everyone from demanding it? The world, airlines included, are set up for the majority. I don't know why this is so difficult to understand. Most people are not addicted to cold pills but they lock those up now, too. I'm sick of being punished for someone else's problems.
2
I too am appalled at the venom toward people with allergies. I have severe allergies to cats and dogs. Allergies are a disease, not a choice. The rise of fake "service pets" has made flying a risky endeavor for me. A cat on an airplane could mean a deadly asthma attack. I forgo flying now, but it is not always possible, and the airlines cannot, or will not, tell you in advance if a pet will be on board.
32
I have actually never met a person with a TRUE allergy to just dogs or cats- they just say that because they don't like dogs and cats. It's not actually the animal anyway, it's the dander and hair and there are medicines to take for that. Also, humans have dander and hair, so you're probably allergic to people, too. I just don't get why the expectation is that everyone should stop and pay attention to you and your allergy. The world is set up for the majority and the majority rules.
Allergies are covered under the ADA - people need to pay attention to this, it is not a privilege to be allergic, it is a medical condition!
In both the ADA and Section 504, a person with a disability is someone who has a physical or mental impairment that seriously limits one or more major life activities, or who is regarded as having such impairments. Asthma and allergies are usually considered disabilities under the ADA.
In both the ADA and Section 504, a person with a disability is someone who has a physical or mental impairment that seriously limits one or more major life activities, or who is regarded as having such impairments. Asthma and allergies are usually considered disabilities under the ADA.
2
So the logical response would seem to be always assume there is a pet and behave accordingly. Of course, your allergy is real and their need for a service animal is not. Too often these discussions always end up in the same place, "my need to be accomodated trumps your need." Sadly, allergy sufferers will always lose out. There are more hungry people who don't like being told what they can't and eat and where they can't eat it.
1
I almost died in early December from an allergic reaction. I take every precaution, and still, sometimes, I am exposed to nuts. Recently I flew on Delta Airlines, and they could not have been nicer about it. This is serious business. This isn't about getting a stomach ache or slight discomfort. It's about the airway closing and the body going into shock. I always take my own snacks everywhere and I don't eat at buffets or parties or work treats. But I cannot control whether someone eats nuts and then touches the top of every plane seat or the handle of the restroom door.
16
Just a question...if you knew there was a good and probable chance that nuts had been served in or brought onto the airplane and could cause something as severe as death, why would you even think of risking it?
3
I certainly don't understand the benefit of leaving it up to the pilot. What expertise would a pilot have in this regard.
14
I agree.
There is no benefit only a lack of ability or courage by the flight crew to make a decision, so they defer to the captain.
The Pilot is the captian of the ship, in this case, the airplane. He is in control and his decision is final. He can remove anyone from his plane for any reason, or no reason. And so the feckless cabin crew defers to him, in order to be backed by authority.
There is no benefit only a lack of ability or courage by the flight crew to make a decision, so they defer to the captain.
The Pilot is the captian of the ship, in this case, the airplane. He is in control and his decision is final. He can remove anyone from his plane for any reason, or no reason. And so the feckless cabin crew defers to him, in order to be backed by authority.
2
The pilots are the "captain of the ship" and are ultimately held responsible for the safety of all on the plane. They will be named in the lawsuit brought by the parents who feel they did not do enough to protect their allergic child from everything the other passengers may have brought on board.
8
Simple: He doesn't want to have to divert the plane for an emergency landing when the kids stop breathing because someone opened a Snickers. He's probably lived through it before.
4
Ah, the problems of the affluent. Why is it necessary to serve snacks on flights? People can't survive a number of hours without food? I see warnings on just about every kind of snack now, that they may have been produced in a facility that processes nuts. No guarantees with pretzels or cookies either.
9
Wanting to eat on a flight is a problem of the affluent? Some flights are five hours long. Are people not supposed to eat on those flights? Sometimes people travel for many hours because they have multiple connecting flights. Are they not supposed to eat on the plane?
This comes down to the airlines not being able to guarantee an allergen-free flight for persons with severe allergies. Even if the airlines stop serving nuts, passengers may bring them on board and other foods containing them. The allergic passenger may be seated next to another passenger who has nut residue on his person. It's kind of like a recent ADA case I worked on in which I librarian, whose migraines are triggered by scents, felt her rights had been violated because her employer could not guarantee her a scent-free environement.
This comes down to the airlines not being able to guarantee an allergen-free flight for persons with severe allergies. Even if the airlines stop serving nuts, passengers may bring them on board and other foods containing them. The allergic passenger may be seated next to another passenger who has nut residue on his person. It's kind of like a recent ADA case I worked on in which I librarian, whose migraines are triggered by scents, felt her rights had been violated because her employer could not guarantee her a scent-free environement.
6
Abby - some flights are 15 hours long.
2
Actually if you are diabetic and taking a long flight , food is necessary.
4
Decency, kindness, and empathy no longer exist, if they every did. All you have to do is look for threads like this for confirmation. This is what I see in what you all have written: victim-blaming (children with peanut allergies are completely innocent of any wrongdoing, guys!). Selfishness (are you all really saying that some people should NEVER fly, just so you can have peanuts? You can have peanuts at home after the flight if you really want them. They may miss the funeral of a loved relative, never be able to visit an ailing grandparent, be forced to forgo a job). Lazy thinking (Unless your own particular allergy is life-threatening, your situation is not the same. I say this as someone with a few non life-threatening allergies. Generally I try to use my experiences to empathize with others who have it worse, rather than blaming them that I don't have it better. You might try that sometime). I'm sure I missed a few, but I can't bear to keep reading.
41
The thing is that a great many people abuse empathy to get themselves speacial treatment. Consider that wild abuse of rent-control.
1
I do empathize. But the world simply cannot accommodate all of these individual special needs. I am so sick of hearing about all of these allergies and problems. Don't fly then! Most people don't have those allergies. Maybe the airlines could start special flights for people who have allergies. You won't eat or drink anything, you will wear Hazmat suits and the flight attendants will wear masks. There will also be a trained physician onboard at all times. Would that suit your needs??
5
Limarchar, True peanut allergies, or any food allergy, is very rare. Look at the "gluten" craze - how did we all survive the onslaught of bread for so many years? I would refer you to the peanut paste that saves so many lives in starving countries. No food "allergies" there! Read up on food allergies!
1
I have two minds about this issue. On the one hand, I absolutely believe that some people have life-threatening reactions to things like peanuts.That can impact the entire atmosphere-in this case airplanes-and everyone on board.
On the other hand, I wonder how people can control everything in regards to something like a nut allergy. In other words, if you are staying in a hotel, for example, how do you prevent the life-threatening reactions should someone else in that same room happened to have been eating peanuts and some dust is still around?
I am not questioning the need for peanut free zones (including planes, schools), but I am curious as to how you might actually be able to control every single environment that you visit, not to mention being outside when a stranger next to you eats some peanuts. That would be very difficult to control, imo.
On the other hand, I wonder how people can control everything in regards to something like a nut allergy. In other words, if you are staying in a hotel, for example, how do you prevent the life-threatening reactions should someone else in that same room happened to have been eating peanuts and some dust is still around?
I am not questioning the need for peanut free zones (including planes, schools), but I am curious as to how you might actually be able to control every single environment that you visit, not to mention being outside when a stranger next to you eats some peanuts. That would be very difficult to control, imo.
7
When you're out and about, you can leave the area, ask for a different motel room, etc. When you're hurtling through the air on a plane, that's not possible. Apples and oranges.
2
Like any hazard, there are no 100% guaranteed ways to control risk. People with allergies carry epinephrine injectors (these are allowed on planes) and perhaps medications like diphenhydramine (Benedryl) in case of a reaction. I know a patient who went through a 4-year trial to desensitize to peanuts with some small but measurable reduction in allergic reaction; this is one of many efforts going on in the medical community to reduce the risk. But right now, an essential step is to make sure the people around the person with allergies are aware of the danger and are considerate of the allergy sufferer's need for safety.
2
@Norton from Whoville, you can't control the environment in a hotel any more than on a plane, but when you check in to your room, you can take your time and wipedown surfaces.
More importantly, if something does happen and you call 911 they will be there in minutes and the hospital and doctors will be minutes away. At best you are 15 minutes from the ground in an emergency on a plane 45 minutes from the Hospital. Further if you are in the middle of the Pacific. Thats why planes are a challenge.
A bus can stop, a train you can move to another car, a hotel, another room or at least you can exit the place causing you to react. You can't just step outside the plane.
More importantly, if something does happen and you call 911 they will be there in minutes and the hospital and doctors will be minutes away. At best you are 15 minutes from the ground in an emergency on a plane 45 minutes from the Hospital. Further if you are in the middle of the Pacific. Thats why planes are a challenge.
A bus can stop, a train you can move to another car, a hotel, another room or at least you can exit the place causing you to react. You can't just step outside the plane.
5
Allergies are sneaky and unpredictable things, and it*s harder than you think to protect against them.
I was shocked when my adult son told me he*s allergic to walnuts, pine nuts and pecans. He grew up eating peanuts and tree nuts, and can still eat cashews and peanuts without adverse reaction. He discovered his pine nut allergy when his lips blew up after eating pesto. I'm quite sure he was exposed to all of these nuts earlier in life; I often bought containers of mixed nuts and we each ate the ones we preferred.
I developed asthma as an adult, and it*s only triggered by cats, and I had exposure earlier in life to cats without harm; owned one a couple of years before ending up in the hospital due to another cat. In recent years I*ve been able to tolerate being in the presence of cats without the most severe reaction, and I haven't had a prescription for inhalers for many years now.
There*s no way public carriers can protect all travelers against allergic reactions; what bothers you today might not tomorrow; what never bothered you could, on one fateful day, suddenly send you into anaphylactic shock, for which, of course, you*d be entirely unprepared.
And as at least one commenter has already noted, those pretzels others are recommending can be harmful to the gluten-averse. So can any food product, to someone, and millions of people travel. We need better answers...
I was shocked when my adult son told me he*s allergic to walnuts, pine nuts and pecans. He grew up eating peanuts and tree nuts, and can still eat cashews and peanuts without adverse reaction. He discovered his pine nut allergy when his lips blew up after eating pesto. I'm quite sure he was exposed to all of these nuts earlier in life; I often bought containers of mixed nuts and we each ate the ones we preferred.
I developed asthma as an adult, and it*s only triggered by cats, and I had exposure earlier in life to cats without harm; owned one a couple of years before ending up in the hospital due to another cat. In recent years I*ve been able to tolerate being in the presence of cats without the most severe reaction, and I haven't had a prescription for inhalers for many years now.
There*s no way public carriers can protect all travelers against allergic reactions; what bothers you today might not tomorrow; what never bothered you could, on one fateful day, suddenly send you into anaphylactic shock, for which, of course, you*d be entirely unprepared.
And as at least one commenter has already noted, those pretzels others are recommending can be harmful to the gluten-averse. So can any food product, to someone, and millions of people travel. We need better answers...
3
Like what? A physician on every flight?
You want the airline to alter their catering polices for 200+ paying passengers to accommodate a single passenger. How about a much simpler approach. Don't fly
23
How about one even simpler? Don't use peanuts as a snack. Are there truly no other options? Are there millions of people out there who can't bear the thought of going a few hours without popping peanuts in their mouth?
1
How many options are vegan, not empty white-carb calories or processed potato/corn/sugar trash snacks, protein-filled, nutritious, portable, don't spoil and readily edible without utensils?
It's not just a few hours if you count prep time, travel to airport time, waiting time, boarding, etc. -- most of us are en route and not in a position to eat for hours before the aircraft is aloft. And some people have -- wait for it -- medical conditions that require protein at regular intervals.
It's not just a few hours if you count prep time, travel to airport time, waiting time, boarding, etc. -- most of us are en route and not in a position to eat for hours before the aircraft is aloft. And some people have -- wait for it -- medical conditions that require protein at regular intervals.
4
Publius writes,"Your kids have peanut allergies because you didn't feed them peanuts when they were infants."
Yes, I failed as a parent by not knowing deep in my paternal heart, the truth, despite the lack of such guidelines when my son was young.
Because of my failures, it is only fair that he be banned from going outside due to the possibility that he may inconvenience people like you.
Yes, I failed as a parent by not knowing deep in my paternal heart, the truth, despite the lack of such guidelines when my son was young.
Because of my failures, it is only fair that he be banned from going outside due to the possibility that he may inconvenience people like you.
5
So who cares about everyone you inconvenience is your basic attitude? Good luck with that.
1
well said, I agree.
The comments to this article show a stunning lack of compassion that says a lot about the our situation in the US today.
Corporations show no compassion for the employees whose jobs they outsource. Bankers show no compassion for the people they cheat. Insurance companies have no compassion for the people whose care is denied. Trump shows no compassion...full stop.
It's no surprise that the nastiness is flowing down to many other Americans, who presumably lack the insight to realize that they're just making things worse for themselves when they heap scorn on kids with allergies. We are truly a nation divided.
Corporations show no compassion for the employees whose jobs they outsource. Bankers show no compassion for the people they cheat. Insurance companies have no compassion for the people whose care is denied. Trump shows no compassion...full stop.
It's no surprise that the nastiness is flowing down to many other Americans, who presumably lack the insight to realize that they're just making things worse for themselves when they heap scorn on kids with allergies. We are truly a nation divided.
16
Valerie, true peanut allergies are rare. I don't heap scorn on kids with or without allergies. However, folks need to stop it. Same thing with "gluten". How did people survive the onslaught of bread for so many years. I would refer you to the peanut paste that saves children's lives in areas of starvation. No "allergies" there! I didn't vote for Trump and likely most of the people reading the NY Times didn't either.
3
It's not scorn! Why is it so difficult to understand that one person's special needs should not rule the majority! Most people are not addicted to cold meds, but they are locked up in stores. Most people are not allergic to anything- yet we are now expected to give up what we like so that people don't have to be around peanuts, gluten or whatever. Enough is enough! This idea of accommodation has gone way too far! I don't expect you to do what I want you to do, why do you expect it of me?? Who told you that life was fair or that you were that special?
4
This may be off-topic, but in recent years I've been surprised to see a huge increase in dogs on airplanes and in hotels. There seems to be no recognition that many people have severe allergies to animals, as well as foods.
20
I love it. We take our dog everywhere except planes because-- well, planes are torture chambers. My dog is my family. If you don't like it, also ask that children not travel with their families and see how that goes over. You need to face reality: MOST people don't have allergies and are rational enough to realize that their special needs and preferences don't outweigh everyone else's. The whining on here is just incredible.
1
Are they life-threatening allergies? I am asking seriously, not facetiously. Is there a difference in the degree of threat?
1
I'd rather be aroud dogs than screeching, whiny, smelly kids any day, atb.
3
I have to say these are the same sorts of comments I heard when my autistic brother needed an accommodation at our local pool. According to the recreation director at the time my brother was being treated equally. If he didn't like it he could leave. According to the ADA, the village was wrong, especially since the accommodation was cost free, required by the ADA, and the rule put into place to discriminate against my brother. The resentment continues with people acting as if his swimming is an affront to them, as if he decided to be autistic to inconvenience them, as if he could stop being autistic any time he decided to.
The comments here show exactly how ignorant and selfish many Americans are. Unfortunately it seems to have become an epidemic. Yes, we're all special. But not all of us are allergic to peanuts. Some of us are severely allergic and know it. Why is that so hard to understand and accommodate? Or is it part of the unwillingness of the commenters here to understand that sometimes other people, a minority, need special treatment in certain circumstances?
My wish for people like the ones who believe that my brother should get over being autistic, doesn't need an accommodation (and wouldn't if the village hadn't allowed the rule in the first place) is that they or a friend or family member should become handicapped and require accommodations. Let them experience life from the other side and see how they like it. The same goes here.
The comments here show exactly how ignorant and selfish many Americans are. Unfortunately it seems to have become an epidemic. Yes, we're all special. But not all of us are allergic to peanuts. Some of us are severely allergic and know it. Why is that so hard to understand and accommodate? Or is it part of the unwillingness of the commenters here to understand that sometimes other people, a minority, need special treatment in certain circumstances?
My wish for people like the ones who believe that my brother should get over being autistic, doesn't need an accommodation (and wouldn't if the village hadn't allowed the rule in the first place) is that they or a friend or family member should become handicapped and require accommodations. Let them experience life from the other side and see how they like it. The same goes here.
15
Are you seriously comparing autism to a peanut allergy? Are you further seriously saying that the majority should always, in every instance, accommodate the minority? To what end? Where will it stop? Who gets to judge when it has gone too far? When do the rights of the majority start to matter?
3
Has anyone figured out why the number of people with Allergies to Peanuts
has risen ?
has risen ?
6
Maybe.
1. The rise in csection babies
2. the rise in antibiotic use in newborns and infants
3. spraying and other treatments of peanut plantations
4. avoidance based on historic medical recommendations
5. combined body burden of the above on smaller bodies
Also there seems to be a correlation between roasted peanuts and allergies vs boiled peanuts.
Finally, on the why are there no peanut allergies in Umbongo, just in the US, there are, just those kids die suddenly in their infancy and that is not listed as the cause of death. Peanut allergies are on the rise across the globe, Sydney, Australia is a particular hotspot.
1. The rise in csection babies
2. the rise in antibiotic use in newborns and infants
3. spraying and other treatments of peanut plantations
4. avoidance based on historic medical recommendations
5. combined body burden of the above on smaller bodies
Also there seems to be a correlation between roasted peanuts and allergies vs boiled peanuts.
Finally, on the why are there no peanut allergies in Umbongo, just in the US, there are, just those kids die suddenly in their infancy and that is not listed as the cause of death. Peanut allergies are on the rise across the globe, Sydney, Australia is a particular hotspot.
3
I AM ALLERGIC, TOO.
My allergies are very specific to people who think that the world revolves around their life challenges.
Whenever I come into contact with these types of people, my blood pressure rises.
I get sweaty, so much so no deodorant in the world will help to keep me "fresh and dry".
My skin gets hot and turns red.
I have a hard time breathing as I am aghast at the level of toxicity that they spew.
I have always thought it was up to me to decide to just ignore these folks. But now, thanks to this article, I am empowered to speak up and speak out to the airlines: no more of these people on planes!
Who's with me?
My allergies are very specific to people who think that the world revolves around their life challenges.
Whenever I come into contact with these types of people, my blood pressure rises.
I get sweaty, so much so no deodorant in the world will help to keep me "fresh and dry".
My skin gets hot and turns red.
I have a hard time breathing as I am aghast at the level of toxicity that they spew.
I have always thought it was up to me to decide to just ignore these folks. But now, thanks to this article, I am empowered to speak up and speak out to the airlines: no more of these people on planes!
Who's with me?
14
Look up anaphylaxis. Understand you can kill with one peanut. Then apologize.
3
Wow. How unkind.
2
There is a cure for your disease which is to practice being compassionate.
A very sad story. That family got stuck in Philadelphia rather than making it to the Turks and Caicos Islands. Airlines really should have a peanut gallery.
7
Peanut allergy is in reality rare. I've watched it become the disease du jour over the past number of years. So silly. Sort of a hypochondriac, Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy thing, and folks, please stop it with yourselves and your kids! Airlines, please continue to serve peanuts.
16
Wow. What are you talking about? Clearly you don't read, don't have young children, and have no exposure to any medical literature. My son nearly died from his peanut allergy which incidentally has been confirmed by blood and skin tests. But hey as long as you get your free peanuts who cares who might die?
2
I've seen anaphylaxis cause my mother's throat swell up to the point of near death from a stray peanut; medical doctors have since Rx'd her an epi-pen, which she's had to use a few times to stop anaphylaxis when a peanut found it's way into something she was eating.
She's experienced asthma from peanuts being service on the plane, and is unable to fly on planes that serve peanuts.
At 70+, she's hardly a child.
What can I say debra, except THANK YOU for letting me know it was all made up? Now I'm going to call my mom and let her know that debra (I'm sorry, where did you obtain your medical degree? She tends to like to know those kinds of thing when it comes to medial advice) says it's all in her head!
She's experienced asthma from peanuts being service on the plane, and is unable to fly on planes that serve peanuts.
At 70+, she's hardly a child.
What can I say debra, except THANK YOU for letting me know it was all made up? Now I'm going to call my mom and let her know that debra (I'm sorry, where did you obtain your medical degree? She tends to like to know those kinds of thing when it comes to medial advice) says it's all in her head!
2
Wow. I have three friends whose children are severely allergic to tree nuts and who would die if exposed just to the oils from the nuts. They are not making this up! Educate yourself!
2
If passengers knew how leaky airliner pressure vessels are, especially on the typical ready-for-the-boneyard specimens operated by domestic U.S. mainline airlines, they would be a lot more worried about the bleed air system (feeding new compressed air in from the engines) than peanut dust.
6
I did a double-take upon reading your name; I've read many of your articles on both aviation and photography. I'm a fan!
But what's wrong with bleed air? It passes through a HEPA filter on most planes, no? And a HEPA filter should also do a pretty great job filtering out peanut dust.
What's to worry about regarding bleed air? (And don't hold back on technical detail; I"m a mechanical engineer).
But what's wrong with bleed air? It passes through a HEPA filter on most planes, no? And a HEPA filter should also do a pretty great job filtering out peanut dust.
What's to worry about regarding bleed air? (And don't hold back on technical detail; I"m a mechanical engineer).
3
Thanks, Jason, for the kind words. Nothing's wrong with bleed air. But it is a complicated system and if it fails the airplane may depressurize within a few minutes (though of course with two engines you would have to have pretty bad luck to lose both sides). My point was that the passenger assumption that the tube is sealed is incorrect. By design there are a lot of air exchanges and as the plane ages there are even more!
But when a passenger is freaking out about peanut dust the flight attendant explaining that the 15-year-old fuselage is full of leaks probably won't help!
(Of course in our 50-seat CRJ we had a front-row passenger with two kids very surprised and upset that the flight attendant had served peanuts (and Biscoff cookies!) to all of the rows further back. She was convinced that her children were in imminent danger from peanut vapor. Little did she know that a guy fresh from simulator training was in the cockpit wrestling with the real-world challenge of flying a 53,000 lb. jet.)
But when a passenger is freaking out about peanut dust the flight attendant explaining that the 15-year-old fuselage is full of leaks probably won't help!
(Of course in our 50-seat CRJ we had a front-row passenger with two kids very surprised and upset that the flight attendant had served peanuts (and Biscoff cookies!) to all of the rows further back. She was convinced that her children were in imminent danger from peanut vapor. Little did she know that a guy fresh from simulator training was in the cockpit wrestling with the real-world challenge of flying a 53,000 lb. jet.)
1
"Peanut and tree nut allergies, which also tend to develop in childhood, usually are lifelong. In the U.S., approximately three million people report allergies to peanuts and tree nuts. Studies show the number of children living with peanut allergy appears to have tripled between 1997 and 2008." These are not imaginary issues brought about through 'helicopter parenting'. They're very serious. LIFE THREATENING. Is it too much to ask that children with nut allergies be given information (labels on the food) so they can eat something safely on a plane? They paid the same as you did for their seat. No one is asking for any special treatment. Is it such an outrageous request that people not eat peanuts on that one flight? Allergic children (and adults) just want to be able to fly like everyone else does. What is happening in this world as far as compassion is concerned? Do you have to have an immediate family member who is severely allergic, or disabled, or LGBTQ, or any other "OTHER" to have any empathy at all?
9
Allergies are increasing because helicopter parents aren't exposing their infants to all the potential allergens early in life. Early exposure trains the immune system to recognize the proteins as harmless. The National Institutes of Health just published a study saying that exposing infants to peanuts prevents later allergies.
6
Comparing LGBTQ people to those who are disabled or who have severe allergies is offensive. LGBTQ people do not require special assistance to fly or board a plane, nor do they need special accommodations while on board.
7
@Publius, as you said NIH just published a study. What did the last study say, it said avoid. So does this mean you should only blame helicopter parents of children born post 2017 and those in the years when the advice from NIH and doctors was avoid get a pass or are all allergic children and adults tarred because they lacked the crystal ball to read the 2017 report.
1
I am disgusted and shamed by the misinformation on peanut allergies that I'm seeing here. Between the ignorance -- accompanied of course by know-it-all bluster, per the theory of incompetence -- and the remarkable selfishness, it's hard to keep what little faith I have in humanity. Worrying about the cost of a diversion is absurd -- we're talking about an event that's vanishingly rare.
"Angry, nasty, ugly souls" is a great way to describe what I'm seeing here -- along with ignorant and selfish. Enjoy President Trump, you deserve him.
I have never seen such selfishness in my life.
"Angry, nasty, ugly souls" is a great way to describe what I'm seeing here -- along with ignorant and selfish. Enjoy President Trump, you deserve him.
I have never seen such selfishness in my life.
22
Where? On the part of the allergy people? You're right, it is selfish. But fear not, the allergy people have lawyers and will use our court system to fight until their special minority need is met, while the majority suffers. Sounds just like Trump, doesn't it?
2
My parents were both physicians.
When my sister was a baby, she was allergic to eggs. Every day our Mother would give her a small bit of eggs in her food. Gradually, the allergic reaction went away.
What is wrong with this modern parenting and lack of common sense?
Really, it's nuts (pardon the pun).
When my sister was a baby, she was allergic to eggs. Every day our Mother would give her a small bit of eggs in her food. Gradually, the allergic reaction went away.
What is wrong with this modern parenting and lack of common sense?
Really, it's nuts (pardon the pun).
40
This is exactly right. Allergies can be prevented by early exposure, and if they arise often can be cured by gradual controlled exposure. Total avoidance is part of the problem.
3
@V, because those modern parents go to their doctor / allergist and the doctor says avoid avoid avoid. Not we need to start OIT (the medical version of feeding small bits daily) NOW.
My daughter is allergic to eggs. When she was really young she often ate baked goods with an egg wash and got hives around her lips, that was all and wanted to eat them. Then one day she had scrambled eggs and we found ourselves in the ER 20 mins later.
A visit to an allergist and AVOID AVOID AVOID
Now 3 years later we are reintroducing baked eggs, a quarter cup cake at a time. Clearly your physician parents were wiser and better trained than the current crop of AVOID AVOID AVOID.
My daughter is allergic to eggs. When she was really young she often ate baked goods with an egg wash and got hives around her lips, that was all and wanted to eat them. Then one day she had scrambled eggs and we found ourselves in the ER 20 mins later.
A visit to an allergist and AVOID AVOID AVOID
Now 3 years later we are reintroducing baked eggs, a quarter cup cake at a time. Clearly your physician parents were wiser and better trained than the current crop of AVOID AVOID AVOID.
2
I'm guessing the allergy didn't involve her airway swelling so she could not breathe? Or causing rapid heart beat that caused a heart attack? Anaphylactic shock kills unless it is quickly reversed.
There is a big difference between an allergy that causes a rash (annoying, but not life threatening) and an allergy that KILLS.
There is a big difference between an allergy that causes a rash (annoying, but not life threatening) and an allergy that KILLS.
1
What about people allergic to animals/pets -- I would think this might create some health problems for some flyers.
57
Read up just a little about nut allergies. A nut allergy can actually kill you. Your body swells up and you can no longer breathe and your heart stops beating. This can happen just from touching something that has been touched by something with nuts.
Animal/people allergies just cause you to get stuffy, so similar accommodations aren't needed.
Animal/people allergies just cause you to get stuffy, so similar accommodations aren't needed.
2
I just spent a domestic flight sneezing because there was a cat two seats away. I had a spacious seat so I was unwilling to move and I am genuinely sympathetic to the plight to pet owners so I didn't make a fuss (though the other passengers gave me wide berth, assuming I had a terrible cold).
There has to be a better way
There has to be a better way
3
No Joanna: Animal dander-triggered asthma can kill you mighty fast. I've been hospitalized twice because of it.
And it developed in adulthood, and I'd been around cats before; it was my own cat who almost killed me.
And it developed in adulthood, and I'd been around cats before; it was my own cat who almost killed me.
5
I have been a flight attendant for 29 years. I have no problem not serving peanuts on a plane. I would ask that those with allergies inform the FA when they board. It is important to work with the crew. I come to work to help people get to their destination. I want to help. Please remember, I am not only trying to get you and your family to your destination safely and comfortably but also the other 200ish passengers flying with you.
81
I bet you work for Delta, my favorite airline! Delta's policy of not serving the peanuts when alerted is kind, sensible and reasonable. I never mind when this kind of announcement is made. I do think, though, that it may be time for Delta and other airlines to serve a less allergenic snack, even almonds or sunflower seeds, to eliminate most of this issue. Why the obsession with airline peanuts? Why peanuts?
There are ways that peanut allergy sufferers can avoid problems when they fly. Either fly an airline that does not serve peanuts (many don't, they serve pretzels or some other snack food instead) or wear a mask (an N95 mask with a vent hole is quite comfortable and effective at blocking very small particles).
25
It's not that easy. Some people are allergic to the oils from the nuts and can go into anaphylactic shock just from touching thenut oils left on a tray.
1
I'm allergic to cats. No one has ever asked me if my allergy is a problem when people bring their beloved pets on board. Other people are allergic to dogs. I fly 35000 miles a year and I've never heard an announcement that "You will be unable to bring your pet on board because we have allergic passengers." I have heard more than once that peanuts will not be served because of allergies.
But hey, when it involves people's pets, it's cool to make everyone else suffer because animals are people, right? But when it's snacks, we should accommodate the allergist. The choice of snack on the flight really isn't important but it's obvious we're heading to a system of selective accommodation.
But hey, when it involves people's pets, it's cool to make everyone else suffer because animals are people, right? But when it's snacks, we should accommodate the allergist. The choice of snack on the flight really isn't important but it's obvious we're heading to a system of selective accommodation.
64
First of all, only one animal is permitted per cabin, so you can presumably be seated at a distance from any animal on board. Second, and most important, allergies to dogs and cats do not usually result in death.
In reply to OutlawStar Michigan
In reply to OutlawStar Michigan
Pet allergies don't cause anaphylaxis. I don't disagree with you, but that's the difference.
2
Not saying there should be pets on board, but unless your cat allergies threaten your life, it is a false comparison.
2
I don't fly AA anymore, even if I have to pay higher fees in other airlines. They sometimes run their planes in an autocratic manner. And the overbooking problems and mechanical failures that delayed schedules was really becoming unbearable some four years ago. But I cut off my business with them after I was not allowed to board a plane--orders of the pilot--because I protested overbooking policies that were leaving other passengers on the ground and we had also been "deplaned" (two problems on the same flight trajectory). It was in the Dallas airport and many people had connections to make. It was also in the evening so the delays meant staying overnights. People's nerves were on the edge. And after several passengers protested on the counter, the pilot was passing by and made a cut on the throat sign and we were all left on the ground. They should close up business and get their act together before they keep up building fancy terminals that are nothing but a front show. Service--which counts the most is the worst of all airlines. Sue them and hope they go out of business unless they learn to be more sensitive to the public.
10
What does this have to do with peanut allergies?
2
I fly regularly on Delta, which serves peanuts, so claims that no airline in the world serves peanuts are not true. Maybe it's something to do with the fact that Delta is based in Georgia, which is the leading state for peanut production.
I would be happy to forgo peanuts if they pose a serious risk to some other passenger, but I would certainly like some alternative to the little bits of timber by-products that pass as "pretzels". How about something actually healthy like fruits?
I would be happy to forgo peanuts if they pose a serious risk to some other passenger, but I would certainly like some alternative to the little bits of timber by-products that pass as "pretzels". How about something actually healthy like fruits?
9
"But today many airlines have stopped letting families with children board before other passengers."
I know this isn't the subject of this article, but how about some comment on this assault by the airlines industry on people traveling with small kids? Was it really so hard for them to allow someone, especially traveling alone, with a kid and the stiff kids need to get on a plane first? (This also tends to prevent the howling by unsettled kids who often serenade the rest of the plane for a whole flight.) Is that such an affront to all the Platinum/Gold/Titanium "club" members feel entitled to all service because of their extra bucks?
Whatever happened to simple civility and consideration for people with small kids or difficult situations?
I know this isn't the subject of this article, but how about some comment on this assault by the airlines industry on people traveling with small kids? Was it really so hard for them to allow someone, especially traveling alone, with a kid and the stiff kids need to get on a plane first? (This also tends to prevent the howling by unsettled kids who often serenade the rest of the plane for a whole flight.) Is that such an affront to all the Platinum/Gold/Titanium "club" members feel entitled to all service because of their extra bucks?
Whatever happened to simple civility and consideration for people with small kids or difficult situations?
15
Overhead bin space has become valuable. Very valuable. The airlines sell it and people spend major money to acquire status, sticking with airlines that aren't the most convenient sometimes, to get access to it. With bag fees as they are, it's not a wonder why this is the case.
Allowing small children on the plane first has been done for the convenience of the other passengers, preventing delays and other hassles as people with kids fumble with "too much stuff" and trip up boarding. Understand that it has not been done for those with the children; having kids and choosing to travel with them incurs an inconvenience you've chosen to bear. What the new policies are saying is that it's not longer better for other passengers to allow this to continue. People would rather get access to the bin space at the cost of waiting for families than have to check their bags.
Allowing small children on the plane first has been done for the convenience of the other passengers, preventing delays and other hassles as people with kids fumble with "too much stuff" and trip up boarding. Understand that it has not been done for those with the children; having kids and choosing to travel with them incurs an inconvenience you've chosen to bear. What the new policies are saying is that it's not longer better for other passengers to allow this to continue. People would rather get access to the bin space at the cost of waiting for families than have to check their bags.
7
People with kids are not fumbling with "too much stuff", they are dealing with the problem you describe. They have say two parents and two small kids who have all paid for seats and bin space just like you.
Unfortunately for the parents, the kids who also need clothes and other inconvenient paraphernalia to travel don't have the body strength to carry that so the parents are carrying the bags of 4 people, four people that have the same rights to overhead bin space you.
Unfortunately for the parents, the kids who also need clothes and other inconvenient paraphernalia to travel don't have the body strength to carry that so the parents are carrying the bags of 4 people, four people that have the same rights to overhead bin space you.
"having kids and choosing to travel with them incurs an inconvenience you've chosen to bear"?
Spoken by someone without kids, presumably.
What a nasty, mean-spirited point of view.
Spoken by someone without kids, presumably.
What a nasty, mean-spirited point of view.
The rider with an allergy are too precious. What happens on a intercity bus or train if a fellow traveler several seats away pulls out his peanut butter sandwich and starts eating? This must happen everyday. I've never heard of a bus being diverted from an interstate highway because of an allergy problem or a train stopped for the same reason.
Do I worry about the passenger sitting next to me has a communicable illness? Where does it stop?
Do I worry about the passenger sitting next to me has a communicable illness? Where does it stop?
73
Most peanut allergies are to raw peanuts, not so much to items like peanut butter where the peanuts have been cooked already.
1
Too precious? You clearly don't understand what anaphylaxis is. The difference is that a bus can exit on an interstate highway off to a nearby hospital. I wasn't aware that hospitals exist in the air.
4
You are wrong. Food allergies in most cases are unaltered even when high heat is applied. The allergy is caused by the protein in the food. Raw, Peanut butter, peanut powder. Egg protein does change when heated which is why some people are allergic to all eggs and some are only allergic to raw or unbaked eggs.
1
Like Claire F I am Gluten Free. Once on a SWA flight I was denied peanuts by the attendant due to a passenger having a nut allergy. They had nothing I could eat. I feel that people with nut allergies need to adapt to the world in which they live, a world full of risk, and not be allowed to have their special status inconvenience others. To accommodate individuals with nut allergies can only create a false sense of security that will be impossible to ensure everywhere forever. Carry your epi-pen and don't make everyone else share your unique burden.
23
How long do you think an epi-pen works? What part of anaphylactic shock do you not understand: the fact that the person may not be able to breathe once exposed or that it's better that they not be exposed because they can die? You and many others here are displaying an abysmal ignorance of how allergies work. Their special status, as you refer to it, keeps them alive and prevents serious injuries to them. In addition, travelling by bus, train, or car may not be practical, You can be inconvenienced for a few hours. If they have a severe reaction they may inconvenienced for the rest of their lives assuming they live.
9
Ummm, pot, kettle, black?
1
So instead of you simply bringing your own food, they should prepare to have a life-threatening allergic reaction that requires them to use the epi-pen, and additionally may require the plane to land early so they can go to an emergency room for treatment? Sounds like a great idea.
2
JetBlue was fantastic with mu daughter's peanut and nut allergies. They wiped down her seat and tray before we boarded, let us know that they were aware of the allergy and ask if they could serve nuts/peanuts. They also asked the passengers immediately around us to refrain from eating any nut products. It is infuriating that other airlines kick families off flights due to an allergy. Shame on them!
8
Since any passenger can start snacking on whatever they feel like, including nuts, as there is no rules or even guidelines regarding such, then it logically follows that no one with a nut allergy is safe while flying. Personally, if my child was allergic, I most assuredly wouldn't ever risk his life in an airplane for a vacation, and instead would opt for road trips where these factors would be easier to control. Some of the vitriol in these comments should be a huge red flag for parents. I'm sure nobody wants their flight to be detoured, but what do I know? There just seems to be a lot of angry people lurking out there, ready to start a ruckus.
19
Would you risk it for a visit to family on the other side of the country or the other side of an ocean, my car don't get me to Europe.
Or a funeral, or a wedding.
And when these snowflakes grow up and are sent on business trips?
A simple wipedown is a huge risk mitigant, and convenience for you. Now I just clog up the isle wiping down while everybody boards and slowing down general boarding.
Or a funeral, or a wedding.
And when these snowflakes grow up and are sent on business trips?
A simple wipedown is a huge risk mitigant, and convenience for you. Now I just clog up the isle wiping down while everybody boards and slowing down general boarding.
1
I have an allergy to grass and pollen (hay fever). Is the airline going to make sure that there is no one near me that was in a park, etc, because they might have pollen on them.
Airlines are public transportation. Are you going to demand that there be no peanuts on the trains, busses, taxis, subways and trollies?
In this, I'm on the side of the airlines.
Airlines are public transportation. Are you going to demand that there be no peanuts on the trains, busses, taxis, subways and trollies?
In this, I'm on the side of the airlines.
39
Are you anaphylactic to grass and pollen? Will you die if you go outside? Its a little different. This is a risk of death.
5
What a ridiculous analogy. No one needs to eat peanuts on a plane. The selfishness on this thread is astounding.
3
In all of your examples, a person has a way of removing themselves from the train, bus, taxi, subway and trolly. A plane does no provide that egress. Hence the elevated issue at hand.
3
As a lifelong allergy sufferer- nuts and dogs and heavy perfumes- i have great sympathy with both sides. I realize it is inconvenient to have a passenger who has an attack of some kind on a flight. But it is also quite difficult to be told that you may not ever fly. Allergies are a disability and should be respected as such by the airlines. They make many special accomodations for those traveling with service animals or wheelchairs or c-PAP machines. It does not seem like too much to ask to accomodate their passengers with allergies.
9
Respectfully, what's at issue is not "an attack of some kind. It's anaphylactic shock, which poses an immediate risk of death by suffocation (swelling closes the airway).
I see both sides of this. People who decide they have an allergy to something they don't like are annoying. They often insist on special treatment. This *looks* like that sort of behavior, but it isn't.
An epinephrine autoinjector (Epi-Pen) relieves the condition for the short term. Again, a true peanut allergy doesn't cause the person next to you to sneeze or have watery eyes. It causes them to suffocate to death. That'll ruin your whole flight.
It would be extraordinarily foolish for someone who experiences anaphylaxis in the presence of peanuts to fly without an Epi-Pen. Conversely, anyone flying with one due to a peanut allergy has a real, honest-to-god life-threatening allergy and is carrying the meds to deal with their condition.
A uniform rule from the FAA would help things immensely. Currently, we're asking pilots to rule on whether anaphylaxis is a threat, which is about as useful as asking a doctor when to deploy the flaps.
I see both sides of this. People who decide they have an allergy to something they don't like are annoying. They often insist on special treatment. This *looks* like that sort of behavior, but it isn't.
An epinephrine autoinjector (Epi-Pen) relieves the condition for the short term. Again, a true peanut allergy doesn't cause the person next to you to sneeze or have watery eyes. It causes them to suffocate to death. That'll ruin your whole flight.
It would be extraordinarily foolish for someone who experiences anaphylaxis in the presence of peanuts to fly without an Epi-Pen. Conversely, anyone flying with one due to a peanut allergy has a real, honest-to-god life-threatening allergy and is carrying the meds to deal with their condition.
A uniform rule from the FAA would help things immensely. Currently, we're asking pilots to rule on whether anaphylaxis is a threat, which is about as useful as asking a doctor when to deploy the flaps.
OK, so you know that airlines serve nuts. You know that your child is so allergic that even the residue from nuts--either in the air or on a surface-- could kill your child. Asking the airline to let you remain in an area that you and they know cannot be completely purged of this deadly allergen just doesn't make sense on either side. You've let them know your kid is deathly allergic to something they know is in their airplane.l It seems like a responsible action on their part to say no, we cannot meet the standard necessary to assure your child's safety.
79
100% agreed.
8
So airlines serve nuts; is there something wrong with people asking them NOT to serve nuts? Is there something wrong with encouraging airlines to eliminate peanuts and tree nuts from the menu? Or is the existence of nuts on the place some immutable ontological reality that can never, ever be challenged or altered? There are indeed airlines that are more accommodating and airlines that are less accommodating. I choose to bring my son on those airlines that are more accommodating.
4
That is certainly their right. I truly don't understand the obsessive desire, though, to eat peanuts on planes, as opposed to the many other food options. Airlines could easily serve less allergenic substitutes.
1
1) Peanuts are not "needed" to fly a plane. Let the airlines serve other stuff.
2) For those who say "I am gluten sensitive and can only eat nuts" - please. There are huge gluten-free aisles in every major supermarket, not to mention tons of foods that are naturally gluten-free (like fruit or a yogurt)( Bring something with you in your carry-on bag that's nut free and gluten free. You can find.
3) Or just don't snack. What's with the American obsession with eating every five minutes? If the flight is short, you can do without food for a couple of hours. If the flight is long, they will serve you a full lunch or dinner.
2) For those who say "I am gluten sensitive and can only eat nuts" - please. There are huge gluten-free aisles in every major supermarket, not to mention tons of foods that are naturally gluten-free (like fruit or a yogurt)( Bring something with you in your carry-on bag that's nut free and gluten free. You can find.
3) Or just don't snack. What's with the American obsession with eating every five minutes? If the flight is short, you can do without food for a couple of hours. If the flight is long, they will serve you a full lunch or dinner.
51
A peanut butter and banana sandwich happens to be, for me, and likely many vegetarians, the best way to stave off hunger for long periods of time. I and many others abhor airline food. For a long flight I'm going to continue to bring the food I prefer. If they were to forbid me to then I would make other choices both for airlines and food but until then.....
7
Or maybe they won't feed you. I don't know anyone who flies frequently who doesn't carry something just in case they get stuck on a plane for hours with no food, especially if you're a diabetic. I got stuck for five hours on the tarmac one time and I always carry nuts with me.
Aren't you going to be subject to nuts anywhere you go? So what about the airport, what about the hotels, what about the trains, cruise ship?
Aren't you going to be subject to nuts anywhere you go? So what about the airport, what about the hotels, what about the trains, cruise ship?
5
I had a severe allergic reaction to courtesy peanuts handed out by Delta mid-flight between New York and Rome about a year ago. I had never had an allergic reaction to anything before. I learned it's not uncommon for people to develop allergies as they age. Delta used to carry Epipens on board international flights for just this kind of emergency but discontinued them some years ago. This NYTimes story does not address either of these points. Fortunately in my case as passenger was carrying Benadryl, which sufficed. I could have died. When I complained to Delta, it's corporate communications office was evasive and unresponsive.
9
In fact you wouldn't have died... but the Benadryl did help, nice. PS people over 65 are supposed to be very careful with Benadryl and antihistamines.
I have no idea about "so allergic that touching a surface will set off a reaction." Seems to be the kid should wear both a mask and rubber gloves.
Hyperbole.
I was once on a flight that was delayed for hours -- six or seven with no food. When we finally got to ABQ we were going from NYC to Denver and had first stopped in Fargo, passenger protest meant we could get off the plane with a voucher and have something to eat. I think it ended up being a 12 hour flight. Solution: Always carry something with you if you suffer from bad blood sugar drops.
I have no idea about "so allergic that touching a surface will set off a reaction." Seems to be the kid should wear both a mask and rubber gloves.
Hyperbole.
I was once on a flight that was delayed for hours -- six or seven with no food. When we finally got to ABQ we were going from NYC to Denver and had first stopped in Fargo, passenger protest meant we could get off the plane with a voucher and have something to eat. I think it ended up being a 12 hour flight. Solution: Always carry something with you if you suffer from bad blood sugar drops.
1
They probably don't carry Epi Pen because the Epi Pen maker price gouged the heck out of everyone on it and they can't afford it. Is the evil Epi Pen CEO fired yet?
6
Milan lowered the price, and CVS now offers an excellent cheaper alternative. If you have to buy multiples for various places, they're still very expensive.
Too many non-experts here are underestimating an increasing and life-threatening medical condition that's unrelated to social class or emotional stability.
Too many non-experts here are underestimating an increasing and life-threatening medical condition that's unrelated to social class or emotional stability.
I fly Delta most of the time and they have right attitude. They make announcements before and after boarding that we have passengers with peanut allergies. They ask all passengers to refrain from eating any peanuts they brought on board. In return, the flight attendants offer extra cookies and pretzels to all takers. Problem solved. I've never seen anyone insist that they need peanuts to fly.
7
Why serve peanuts in the first place?
15
Because people like them and they are inexpensive?
6
The family's experience with Air France was not at all surprising-a symptom of their general ignorance and poor q/a overall. I've seen them bump paid confirmed first class, business class, economy class passengers who are non-French speaking and who cannot raise a fuss in French.
1
If we allow pre-boarding for anyone who says they have an allergy, what would stop everybody from saying it in which case the policy becomes meaningless like letting anyone who says their dog is a "service dog" to bring it into places where they are otherwise banned. And even letters from "medical professionals" are of questionable value as The Times awhile did an article about a "psychotherapist" who for a fee would give anyone a letter saying that they needed to have their dog always with them because of anxiety.
And for parents so worried about the health of their children. If your child had the flu it's unlikely you'd send them out in the rain. Why risk their health on a plane.
And for parents so worried about the health of their children. If your child had the flu it's unlikely you'd send them out in the rain. Why risk their health on a plane.
18
@Steve in NYC. You raise a great question.
"If we allow pre-boarding for anyone who says they have an allergy, what would stop everybody from saying it in which case the policy becomes meaningless "
The solution is simple, if someone is anaphylactic, they will be carrying an EpiPen, Adrenaclick, AuviQ or similar epinephrine autoinjector. This is a prescription med. The device packaging will have their name and Rx details on it.
I am highly confident that anyone that wants to preboard for an allergy would be happy to show their meds as proof of need. They will probably be able to locate them quicker than their boarding pass or ID. One day they just might save their life.
"If we allow pre-boarding for anyone who says they have an allergy, what would stop everybody from saying it in which case the policy becomes meaningless "
The solution is simple, if someone is anaphylactic, they will be carrying an EpiPen, Adrenaclick, AuviQ or similar epinephrine autoinjector. This is a prescription med. The device packaging will have their name and Rx details on it.
I am highly confident that anyone that wants to preboard for an allergy would be happy to show their meds as proof of need. They will probably be able to locate them quicker than their boarding pass or ID. One day they just might save their life.
3
In all my travels on foreign airlines I have never encountered such a problem. Is it only an American disease? And if yes, shouldn't there be research into why it has reached such insane proportions? Instead of inconveniencing others, shouldn't Americans try to look to their own health issues? Another American disease is obesity and I wish airlines would start looking into their passengers' BMI and remove those who cannot fit into a standard seat. I'm tired of having my neighbor overflow into my space. If you are fat, buy two seats.
63
I am a physician. Please don't inconvenience me with your health issues when you develop them. Look to them yourself.
1
I grew up in brazil and Switzerland. Peanut allergies were never an issue in either place. Nor were the now fashionable gluten/sugar whatever allergies.
5
Your kids have peanut allergies because you didn't feed them peanuts when they were infants. (See NIH study and guidelines. "[S]cientific research has demonstrated that introducing peanut-containing foods into the diet during infancy can prevent the development of peanut allergy.")
9
This is a recent study of which she was certainly unaware. Okay?
1
I think you are somewhat misinterpreting the data. Early introduction of peanuts reduces but does not completely eliminate the risk of peanut allergy. Also, your comment that kids develop peanut allergy because they are not fed peanut during infancy is not correct. The study you are referring did not test that question whether not feeding peanuts during infancy caused or increased the risk of subsequent peanut allergy - it was rather about lowering the risk in those who are at high risk. I mean no offense, but there is an important nuance here.
1
I wish I had the ability to recommend this comment 1000 times.
4
I'm with the airlines. Allowing people with severe peanut allergies on the plane exposes them to severe liabilities, and other risks not associated with lawyers. Allergic reactions experienced by those affected are true medical emergencies. The pilot would be obligated to divert the flight if someone had a reaction, even if the people had their own medicine and signed a waiver. Such events are disruptive to others on the flight as well. People forget that the pilot and flight crew have the responsibility for every life on that aircraft, flying at 30,000 feet in air too thin to support life.
18
An airplane is essentially an enclosed space where, with a little bit of fresh air make-up (which is reduced over oceans which is why we all fall asleep whether we want to or not) pathogens, pet dander and food particles are re-circulated. That's why so many of us get sick after a long flight. People with severe allergies need to take personal precautions but it is unrealistic to ask the rest of a full flight, dozens or even hundreds of people, and the airline,to provide a totally safe environment. I expect this whole idea of taking people off the flights has arisen due to costly experiences with lawsuits for those few, but serious allergic reactions. Not to mention the cost of having to drop a plane into the nearest landing spot should a reaction occur. I am sorry that people with serious allergies may be constrained from some of the enjoyments of travel, but calling the airlines' actions discriminatory is a stretch.
23
Nothing discriminatory about telling people with peanut allergies they can never fly, like you just did. Nothing at all. They should simply forgo any job that requires travel, never visit dying relatives, etc. etc. Not as big a burden as the rest of us having to eat different snacks once and a while, amirite?
4
But why do peanuts have to be the snack most offered on some airlines? Are there so many people out there who can't manage a few hours without eating peanuts?
1
Peanuts are not nuts. They are legumes, like soybeans. People are typically allergic to peanuts or "real" nuts. They are not the same
2
The captain's job is to control the plane and ensure the safety of all those on board, he/she has full responsibility. If he/she felt the nut allergy was severe enough that it could put anyone in danger on the flight, then he made the right call to remove these people. End of story.
7
One of the problems is that an airline captain is completely unqualified to assess medical risks.
2
How hard is this to assess? "Hi, I have a severe medical condition and if I come into contact with peanuts I could die". Well we have peanuts on this plane - so don't come on. Not very hard.
2
Perhaps each plane should have a safe space. Two or three seats in the baggage compartment for "sensitive" passengers sitting next to certified peanut-free luggage.
5
Your use of quotes around the word sensitive is "interesting." This isn't about sensitivities, it's about life and death.
1
THIS is (in part) why Trump was elected. A large minority is just fed up with all this "I'm special" business.
Of course you are special. Just as special as everyone else.
What's next?
Trigger warnings on university course material?
Warnings of hot contents on coffee lids?
Warnings on microwaves not to dry your cat inside?
Warnings on buckets that they are a drowning hazard?
Outlawing Kinder surprise eggs?
-------
(If I was a math professor I'd put a trigger warning on the course material, just out of spite!)
(No, I'd never vote for Trump, but I can understand why some did)
Of course you are special. Just as special as everyone else.
What's next?
Trigger warnings on university course material?
Warnings of hot contents on coffee lids?
Warnings on microwaves not to dry your cat inside?
Warnings on buckets that they are a drowning hazard?
Outlawing Kinder surprise eggs?
-------
(If I was a math professor I'd put a trigger warning on the course material, just out of spite!)
(No, I'd never vote for Trump, but I can understand why some did)
9
Actually the "I'm Special" crowd ARE the Trump Voters. They are experts at building walls, creating buffer zones and expunging "Alien" influences from their lives whether through litigation or any other means necessary. Their immune system suffers accordingly. So sad for the children.
4
Yes, this is why Trump was elected. I'm an atheist but Christianity has human nature dead to rights. Human nature is deeply sinful. There's a reason genocides happen far more frequently than any of us want to admit. Too many of us don't care one iota for anyone else. If people require two seconds of concern from us in order to ACTUALLY KEEP LIVING, that is too much. That is demanding "special treatment." It's their fault they require this special concern, they need to be blamed for it and shamed for it and called "special snowflakes."
The Buddhists have a wonderful concept: smart selfishness. I hate to tell you this, but It is actually in your interest to care about the well being of others, even if they sometimes require special consideration on your part. It is likely one day you will require that consideration, and wouldn't you rather be in a world where people are happy to give it? By the way, for everyone, that moment when you need others, strangers, to care for you is closer than you think. Be glad some of us have worked to retain empathy, even for those who have never showed it themselves.
The Buddhists have a wonderful concept: smart selfishness. I hate to tell you this, but It is actually in your interest to care about the well being of others, even if they sometimes require special consideration on your part. It is likely one day you will require that consideration, and wouldn't you rather be in a world where people are happy to give it? By the way, for everyone, that moment when you need others, strangers, to care for you is closer than you think. Be glad some of us have worked to retain empathy, even for those who have never showed it themselves.
5
You forgot about the golden rule, but I'll let it slide :)
1
I don't get it. Disclosure: I do have a child with a fairly significant nut allergy. But what I don't get is the venom in some of the comments here. It is truly frightening. Suggestions that I failed as a parent because I did not introduce peanuts early. Suggestions that he should only be allowed on a private plane because of the slim possibility that he might inconvenience someone. Next we will be doing away with the kneeling bus. After all, why should the wheelchair bound hold everybody up, they should have their own vehicles if they want to get around. And the outrage over preboarding to clean. If you have an assigned seat, why the outrage over someone getting to their's sooner. My son's allergies are the least of my concerns. I fear for the future of all our children in what this country is becoming. The measure of any civilization is how it treats its' weakest members...
54
Actually, the measure of any civilization is how it treats its animals.
1
No it aint JJ
1
We are tired of endless accomodation to the wants of the few.
1
Aye mate, is this for real? I am a reasonable person and it has been close to three decades now that "peanut-free" is de facto for any and all public places like schools. Planes fall into this category as well. Does it really take 30 years for airlines to just stop serving peanuts and serve potato chips?
Also, beyond an allergy, peanuts are an incredibly complex LEGUME and protein source. Even those without an allergy might be surprised at the biological reaction peanuts create in humans.
Also, beyond an allergy, peanuts are an incredibly complex LEGUME and protein source. Even those without an allergy might be surprised at the biological reaction peanuts create in humans.
4
So we should welcome those disgusting heavily processed crackers with overwhelming artificial flavorings instead? Or cookies? What about diabetics who can eat peanuts but not the carbs? I think once on an Indian airline, I was given a piece of fruit.
7
The litigious American society continues to shoot itself in the foot. When in doubt, look for a reason to sue, and then wonder why the potential defendant protects themselves with punitive action and from the potential of being sued.
9
Yes; clearly some parent of an allergic child sued in the past. And here we are.
Now that it appears peanut allergies can be largely avoided if kids are exposed early and often to peanuts, every parent of a kid with a peanut allergy will now be subject to comments along the lines of "this is basically your fault as a parent, since you obviously didn't expose your kid to peanuts at an early enough age to develop the normal immune responses". For those who've seen parents making big ruckus's on airplanes about peanuts, they'll have to suppress chuckles when some fellow passenger lets loose with "You know this is all your fault as a parent!".
2
Wow. The level of hostility and contempt aimed at people with nut allergies here is astounding. My kid didn't choose to be allergic to peanuts; she's not a "rich democrat". Our non helicopter parenting didn't infuse her with this deadly allergy that revealed itself at six months. We've traveled with her since she was an infant and we've always taken responsibility for her on every airplane. I know most other families do so as well. Please stop demonizing something you clearly don't understand.
127
I have a daughter with peanut allergies. It is not so severe that she gets a reaction from trace amounts in the environment, thank goodness. That said, anyone who has such a severe allergy that they will get a reaction to minute amounts, then they should not use public transportation. They cannot expect a clean room environment for their own travel safety. Also, with the science of immunotherapy showing that small amounts of the allergen can desensitize the afflicted, then for the sake of strengthening their own immune system, they should get exposed to trace amounts. It would be to their benefit, And if they get a reaction, there is always the epipen.
I haven't seen nuts served on a plane in literally years! I understand allergies--my son has many allergies. Prepare yourself pre-flight. Bring your own snacks, wipes, & a face mask if need be. You're a passenger on the airborne equivalent of a Greyhound bus. Check out passenger shaming on Instagram--there's some pretty gross stuff going on up there in the skies. Nut dust might be the least of your worries.
5
Every plane I'm on serves nuts (mostly Delta and Jet Blue)
2
These people are looking for 5 minutes of fame.......those boys (and their parents) are old enough to know how to deal with their allergies. What did they do on other flights they took?
AA was correct in their action - an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
AA was correct in their action - an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
8
Fortunately, as a poor person who will never be able to fly to a tropical locale for Christmas, I am spared the trials and tribulations that these wretched people face.
25
Not everyone can sit in the exit row. It is restricted. How about making a row on every airplane peanut free? You want that row you pay for it. Just like taking a pet onboard you pay the company for the convenience. The money you pay goes to the extra attention paid to the peanut free area. An extra wipe down after each flight and pre boarding. If I were the company I would also suggest that you sign a waiver saying I will not sue if the bad thing happens.
Aircraft diversions are not risk free especially on international flights. Lack of medical facilities, lack of available airports, no ground personnel, fueling, flight planning, air stairs, no immigration facilities, crew rest requirements etc. can cause a medical emergency to turn into an emergency for all passengers on board.
To experience a flight crew go into action when someone gets sick onboard is a real eye opener. The hundreds of hours of training kick into gear. I hope you don't have to witness it but if you do then you will see what an amazing job our airlines do.
Aircraft diversions are not risk free especially on international flights. Lack of medical facilities, lack of available airports, no ground personnel, fueling, flight planning, air stairs, no immigration facilities, crew rest requirements etc. can cause a medical emergency to turn into an emergency for all passengers on board.
To experience a flight crew go into action when someone gets sick onboard is a real eye opener. The hundreds of hours of training kick into gear. I hope you don't have to witness it but if you do then you will see what an amazing job our airlines do.
4
Ah but you DON'T pay for your small pet in a carrier you are supposed to keep under your seat through the entire flight... The cat I am allergic to, which you take out of the carrier whenever you feel like it, so the dander floats throughout the cabin and I am uncomfortable during the flight. Uncomfortable but not dead.
2
Well, I don't really care if someone is just uncomfortable.
1
JJ! I dont think you care about people at all.
2
I think you're missing the flight pattern for this particular trip. Anytime a pilot has to fly for a period of time over water they do not want something where an emergency that is preventable might happen cause you know gee no place to land?
14
The US government says about .6% of people have peanut allergies, with 30,000 cases of food-induced anaphylaxis a year resulting in 100-200 deaths. If you filled a 757 with people at random, there's about a 75% chance that at least one of them will have a peanut allergy. Peanut allergies may be rare, but not that rare. And they can be incredibly severe.
We've banned a lot of things from flights. Smoking was banned, for example, which caused smokers to make much of the same arguments I'm seeing here. Airlines should just stop serving nuts, period. They should ask customers to refrain from eating nuts in flight. I like eating peanuts, but I also realize a ban is just the decent thing to do.
We've banned a lot of things from flights. Smoking was banned, for example, which caused smokers to make much of the same arguments I'm seeing here. Airlines should just stop serving nuts, period. They should ask customers to refrain from eating nuts in flight. I like eating peanuts, but I also realize a ban is just the decent thing to do.
28
Why don't people whose allergies make air travel life-threatening take the train, drive or travel by ship? It's much easier to control the environment in a train compartment, stateroom or car.
I understand why people with allergies want to be accommodated, and I think it's great when they are accommodated and it all works out. What I don't understand is the outrage when a company decides that they'd rather inconvenience the allergic person than inconvenience all the crew and passengers (and the entire company if the plane is diverted). To me that sounds like a completely rational decision.
It's especially unfair to point the finger at foreign airlines like Air France and Lufthansa - because while I'm not saying that allergies aren't real, the allergy epidemic of recent years really only exists in the United States.
I understand why people with allergies want to be accommodated, and I think it's great when they are accommodated and it all works out. What I don't understand is the outrage when a company decides that they'd rather inconvenience the allergic person than inconvenience all the crew and passengers (and the entire company if the plane is diverted). To me that sounds like a completely rational decision.
It's especially unfair to point the finger at foreign airlines like Air France and Lufthansa - because while I'm not saying that allergies aren't real, the allergy epidemic of recent years really only exists in the United States.
23
First of all, trains and ships are FAR more expensive than flying, and they also take more time. If you have a week as a family to is it relatives, it would take five days to drive cross-country to get there.
Why is it such a huge deal to remove peanuts from planes and serve other snack foods instead? Are there millions of people out there simply craving peanuts, and they can't make do for a few hours without them?
Regarding allergies, many countries do not have data on the incidence of food allergies. Some do. Here is a study showing a rising percentage in Asia and Europe.
https://waojournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1939-4551-6-21
Why is it such a huge deal to remove peanuts from planes and serve other snack foods instead? Are there millions of people out there simply craving peanuts, and they can't make do for a few hours without them?
Regarding allergies, many countries do not have data on the incidence of food allergies. Some do. Here is a study showing a rising percentage in Asia and Europe.
https://waojournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1939-4551-6-21
1
I heard on NPR that exposing children to nuts at an early age will prevent them from becoming allergic.
2
Then it must be true if it was on NPR.
2
This doesn't affect those who are already allergic, and are stuck in an airplane.
3
it was reported everywhere including NPR.
1
How about the peanut allergy person wear a 3M mask?
11
Peanut oil can be absorbed through the skin.
2
On one hand, maybe it's moral hazard. Doctor's note isn’t hard to forge or even "purchased" online. People with no allergies might acquire a doctor’s note so they can preboard for free. If fake allergy notes become common, people with real allergies will suffer. It's already problem with fake doctors' note and certification for working animals.
On the other hand, it is not in airlines interest to ban people with allergies. That would just push the issue underground and they'll have surprise allergic reactions on their flights.
Most passengers will be amenable if you make an announcement on short flights that someone is allergic and snacks will not be served. You can always hand passengers their snacks on their way off the flight so they don't feel scammed. In the long run, better to remove nut snacks from short flights. It's a common enough allergy and one of the few (as far as I know) where even microscopic amounts can trigger a reaction.
As for longer flights where entire meals are served, allow passengers to declare their conditions when they buy their ticket, just like choosing vegetarian/kosher food options. Have options for people with allergies (or other medical condition, for that matter) to declare their conditions, sign waivers, upload doctor's note, etc. Then airlines will have time to adjust and this issue will not have to wait until right before take-off when everyone's temper is short.
On the other hand, it is not in airlines interest to ban people with allergies. That would just push the issue underground and they'll have surprise allergic reactions on their flights.
Most passengers will be amenable if you make an announcement on short flights that someone is allergic and snacks will not be served. You can always hand passengers their snacks on their way off the flight so they don't feel scammed. In the long run, better to remove nut snacks from short flights. It's a common enough allergy and one of the few (as far as I know) where even microscopic amounts can trigger a reaction.
As for longer flights where entire meals are served, allow passengers to declare their conditions when they buy their ticket, just like choosing vegetarian/kosher food options. Have options for people with allergies (or other medical condition, for that matter) to declare their conditions, sign waivers, upload doctor's note, etc. Then airlines will have time to adjust and this issue will not have to wait until right before take-off when everyone's temper is short.
1
Part of the reason for being kicked off the flights is the carrier doesn't want to have to make an unscheduled landing due to an inflight emergency.
Unscheduled landings are costly to the airline.
Unscheduled landings are costly to the airline.
13
Maybe they should ban anyone with a heart condition from flying then. The article clearly stated that the majority of unscheduled landings were due to heart problems, while only 4% were due to allergies.
4
Why in the world did airlines pick the ONE SNACK that causes severe allergic reactions as the main snack to serve on board? Why not make pretzels (which does NOT cause a severe allergy) the main snack? It's the silliest thing I have ever heard. Just choose a different snack! We all know that peanut allergies are some of the most severe allergies that exist. Why serve them in a confined space while flying through the air without access to a hospital? This is so dumb. HELLO.
48
They've been serving peanuts for decades, long before nut allergies were common or well known.
6
Interesting observation. Makes me wonder if there is some huge stockpiled amount of peanuts from some long-ago government or corporate initiative that is being sold for cheap to airlines...in other words, there must be a monetary reason airlines are still serving peanuts, because, you are correct, there's no logical reason to do so.
1
Yours is the voice of reason.
2
Gee, what a shock that the airlines don't want to accommodate this. It fits in quite well with everything else they do to passengers: stuff us into small spaces so we're unable to move, add on charges for things that ought to be included, charge unreasonably high or low prices for completely unsatisfactory service, and be generally insensitive to their customers. But don't worry, the CEO will receive his multimillion dollar pay package complete with rewards and perks for authorizing the further mistreatment of customers. They don't need to be considerate or concerned about passengers since we're a captive audience and comfort isn't available for anyone who can't afford first class. We should consider ourselves lucky to have seat cushions for an entire flight.
16
American Airlines' response is protecting other passengers against default of the airline.
One fatal peanut incident and the airline will be sued for million of dollars.
A signed wavers is no defense. The plaintiff's lawyer will argue that the waver was signed under duress and win the case. Dow Corning went bankrupt even though the head of the NIH, Bernadine P. Healy, stated that there was no link between autoimmune disease and silicon breast implants.
Juries invariably side with grieving individuals against large corporation, no matter the facts.
One fatal peanut incident and the airline will be sued for million of dollars.
A signed wavers is no defense. The plaintiff's lawyer will argue that the waver was signed under duress and win the case. Dow Corning went bankrupt even though the head of the NIH, Bernadine P. Healy, stated that there was no link between autoimmune disease and silicon breast implants.
Juries invariably side with grieving individuals against large corporation, no matter the facts.
6
The word is 'waiver,' not 'waver.'
1
For the first time in my life, my sympathies are completely with the airlines.
170
How compassionate of you. Obviously, the concept of food allergy is a foreign one to you.
3
I used to dismiss peanut allergies until we realized our granddaughter had been born with a severe peanut allergy. Your attitude shows an ignorance and dismissiveness that I cannot help but reply to. Show some sympathy for God's sake! Don't just blindly side with the airlines. And, with so many people having been born with or having developed these allergies wouldn't it make mores sense for the airlines to either offer us all something else, or even nothing at all?
6
The airlines don't care about the passengers though. They only care about a multi-million dollar lawsuit if one of these people ends up dead on their flights. Sad you agree with corporate overlords who only care about their bottom line than people who could potentially die from a nut allergy. Shame on you.
Peanuts are legumes, like lentils. Walnuts etc. are tree nuts. They are not the same thing. With new peanut guidelines being seen in child care articles,perhaps this will. be 99% gone in a few years.
8
What these families are requesting seems like a small inconvenience compared to the "companion animal" crowd that bring pigs and kangaroos on board
What the airlines (or their poorly-trained staff) don't seem to realize is that these punitive actions INCREASE the risk of a diversion by making families less likely to explain and unable to wipe down the seats and take other precautions for their own safety.
Hopefully other airlines will follow Delta's lead.
What the airlines (or their poorly-trained staff) don't seem to realize is that these punitive actions INCREASE the risk of a diversion by making families less likely to explain and unable to wipe down the seats and take other precautions for their own safety.
Hopefully other airlines will follow Delta's lead.
17
True. And why is it now OK to bring cats and dogs on board and be understanding of emotional support animal issues, even if other fliers are allergic to these animals, and yet give peanut-allergic individuals and their families a hard time? Doesn't make sense. An allergy is an allergy, and pretty soon every plane will have a slew of allergies in the cabin to affect every passenger. Switch the peanuts to pretzels and discourage allowing animals in the cabin, unless they are seeing-eye dogs.
3
The article doesn't say one way or the other, but it sounds to me that someone announcing that they have a nut allergy puts the airline in the position of assuming liability for anything medical, real or imagined, that subsequently happens to that person and the burden to prove they weren't at fault. They probably have dozens of lawsuits in the file cabinets for these cases.
23
Many of you seem certain that to allow an inch will invite a yard. Not all allergies are created equal. A peanut allergie, particularly in a young child is often acute and possibly lethal. The same is not true of most other allergies, and certainly not nearly as common.
Whenever something like this comes up, responsable accommodation is always the key. Is it reasonable to expect an airline to allow a few extra moments for the accommodation of the significant number of people with allergies to peanuts who would be prevented from flying otherwise? Is serving pretzels in place of peanuts a burden that is reasonable to bare for the same?
Simple question, is it more onerous to put these burdens on travelers and airlines, or to expect that more than 1 million Americans with peanut allergies should not be allowed to fly?
Whenever something like this comes up, responsable accommodation is always the key. Is it reasonable to expect an airline to allow a few extra moments for the accommodation of the significant number of people with allergies to peanuts who would be prevented from flying otherwise? Is serving pretzels in place of peanuts a burden that is reasonable to bare for the same?
Simple question, is it more onerous to put these burdens on travelers and airlines, or to expect that more than 1 million Americans with peanut allergies should not be allowed to fly?
10
Your statement is inaccurate. There are many other food allergies that are anaphylactic and potentially fatal. Peanut is not any more serious than another. Please don't share this misinformation. My son is anaphylactic to dairy, and I can assure you that it can be fatal.
2
Maybe, just maybe...
Ms Bloom sent contradictory messages: The boys have a peanut allergy, and we will make the accommodations required. What did she want the aircraft crew to do? The pilot wasn't sure what she wanted, so he, possibly unconsciously, did the safe thing, an aviation response, and ended the threat. It wasn't good politics, and it may not have been need, but it is understandable.
14
So .... does American requires certificates of good health for overweight middle aged men to make sure they wont have a heart attack? Do a pre-boarding pat down for high blood pressure medication?
27
Here, here! I absolutely agree with you. Children with food allergies are taught to let people know about the allergy and to ask to see the ingredients in a food before they eat it. They're not asking the world to go nut free. They just want to be able to navigate safely.
3
Peanuts are legumes and not nuts. That doesn't mean people aren't allergic to one or both, but let's keep the food classifications correct.
15
It doesn't really matter in terms of allergies. And they are all called nuts regardless.
True. Some people allergic to peanuts are also allergic to other legumes, although the reaction tends not to be severe.
People who are allergic to peanuts but not tree nuts are warned that tree nuts are often contaminated because they are processed on the same equipment as peanuts (e.g., to remove shells).
People who are allergic to peanuts but not tree nuts are warned that tree nuts are often contaminated because they are processed on the same equipment as peanuts (e.g., to remove shells).
1
Airline staff are using their new powers granted by laws passed in the wake of the 9/11 terrorist attacks as a way to avoid having to provide customer service.
Airline staff uses these laws as a way to do less and less on their job.
Airline staff uses these laws as a way to do less and less on their job.
10
Putting my lawyer hat on, I cannot help but think that the fact that the families announce their allergies to peanuts to plane staff before the plane takes off, is a tactical liability ploy in case anything goes wrong down the line.
Because if the airline knew about the "severe allergies" and took off anyway, they may have a liability problem. If nobody on the plane had actual knowledge that someone was on the plane with a "severe peanut allergy" then their chances of beating the case would be much better.
Because if the airline knew about the "severe allergies" and took off anyway, they may have a liability problem. If nobody on the plane had actual knowledge that someone was on the plane with a "severe peanut allergy" then their chances of beating the case would be much better.
77
Try putting your compassion hat on instead. These people aren't looking to sue the airlines. They just want to travel safely with their children.
1
Thank you for offering yet another explanation for the rampant dislike of lawyers.
1
Take off your lawyer hat. Do you think that I'm thinking of ANYTHING beyond keeping my food allergic child safe when we board a plane? If I don't alert the crew, they hand my child a bag of nuts. Sometimes they try to give my child nuts even AFTER I have told them he has allergies and is not to be served any food. You have absolutely no idea what goes into planning and preparing for a flight when you have food allergies. How dare you suggest we are just looking for someone to blame in case a reaction occurs. Shame on you.
1
The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few.
24
Nobody "needs" nuts. No one will wind up with a medical emergency if they don't have them.
2
Seems to me the major need of the many at the moment is for more compassion.
7
Nobody "needs" peanuts to survive a few hours in the air.
10
All of you missing your measly little bag of peanuts? Try an apple or raisins or something else. There are other snacks for you children to take with you. Grow up and show a little compassion.
92
True we don't need nuts per se, but if it's a long flight peanut butter is about the only sandwich guaranteed not to spoil without refrigeration. And a cooler bag is an issue because we now can't take any liquids or gels on planes. Apple sauce is off the table because it counts as a liquid. An apple works but not for a small child without a full set of teeth. Honestly, it's a bit of a nightmare. The airlines have made flying such a miserable experience. I would never ignore a request to not eat nuts made by someone with an allergy but at the same time, it's not as cut and dry as you make it out to be.
2
As a person with gluten allergies, peanuts are the only snacks that I can eat. Actually healthier for me than cookies or crackers.
That being said, if a person in my row with peanut allergies were to ask that I not have them to protect themselves, I would be more than happy to comply - I understand.
That being said, if a person in my row with peanut allergies were to ask that I not have them to protect themselves, I would be more than happy to comply - I understand.
34
That the airline serves, you mean. Carry-on food is allowed -- raisins, fruit, etc.
Really? Your gluten problem makes eating fruit a problem?
Claire F--
Make your life easier by looking into the many foods you CAN eat even with your gluten allergy. Barley, wheat, and rye, in all their forms, contain gluten. Oats do not contain true gluten but do contain a protein similar enough to cause reactions in gluten-sensitive people.
Corn chips are a common gluten-free snack, though you may have to read ingredient lists carefully to avoid gluten-containing seasonings such as soy sauce. Rice cakes and crackers are also common snack items, though the same caveat applies to seasonings they may contain.
Make your life easier by looking into the many foods you CAN eat even with your gluten allergy. Barley, wheat, and rye, in all their forms, contain gluten. Oats do not contain true gluten but do contain a protein similar enough to cause reactions in gluten-sensitive people.
Corn chips are a common gluten-free snack, though you may have to read ingredient lists carefully to avoid gluten-containing seasonings such as soy sauce. Rice cakes and crackers are also common snack items, though the same caveat applies to seasonings they may contain.
Where can we sign-up for the legal action to stop Airlines from being discriminatory?
Ignore the stupid comments on this forum - when their loved ones or themselves land in the emergency room due to allergies, they will realize. Till it does not hit them, they won't know.
Ignore the stupid comments on this forum - when their loved ones or themselves land in the emergency room due to allergies, they will realize. Till it does not hit them, they won't know.
22
“American Airlines’ action was clearly discriminatory,” --
People with peanut allergies are not a protected class like race, color, gender, religion, national origin, age, disability etc...
People with peanut allergies are not a protected class like race, color, gender, religion, national origin, age, disability etc...
40
Nut allergies are a medical disability. People with disabilities are a protected class, as you yourself mention.
1
As noted in the article, life-threatening allergies are considered a disability. As such they are protected by law.
1
Yes, they are. From the article: "severe allergies are considered a disability under the Air Carrier Access Act, which regulates air travel, if they impact one’s ability to breathe 'or substantially impact another major life activity.'"
2
There is no question that these allergies are real, although some people may approach them with a more extreme attitude than others. The cause of these allergies is debatable and it is possible that they may have some relation to not exposing children at very early ages to certain nut products, but that does not change the fact that life threatening allergies exist. It seems clear that Federal, and most state, law prohibits discrimination against people with medical conditions. It would seem that requiring airlines, who can only operate under Federal regulation, to provide some "reasonable" accommodation (which it appears some airlines do, without any disastrous consequences, makes sense.
9
What would you do if someone says they have to eat peanuts or else would get sick? Whose health complaints take priority?
1
I am not a medical expert, but assuming such an unlikely conflicting condition exists, I would attempt to find a reasonable accommodation, like seating them apart enough. I do not think it is "reasonable" to think the airline must offer to avoid an allergen at all costs.
1
The AA policy excludes nut allergies from preboarding eligibility because airlines have increasingly commoditized the boarding process and they don't want to deal with people claiming allergies as a reason they should be allowed to board early.
10
Airline are only one example. Precautions and restrictions for nut allergies have gotten out of control. Nuts, and particularly peanuts, are a cheap and substantial source of protein. Many school systems have banned peanut butter from the cafeteria, even forbidding students from bringing in their own peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for lunch. Individual accommodations yes, but also accommodations for the 99%.
13
What are a few deaths in children with severe allergies, as long as the majority have the opportunity for a "good source of protein" ?
1
Find an alternate mode of transportation.
5
I must have missed the "alternative fact" that there are no other lunch possibilities for kids but peanut butte sandwiches.
2
Hey, if you're allergic to nuts don't eat them. If you cannot tolerate that one or more of the hundreds of people on a commercial flight will eat nuts fly private. Don't make the world crazy with your peculiarities.
60
Did you read the article? People with allergies are being banned from flights even if they ARE willing to tolerate the risks and are not asking for any accommodations.
Of course people with life threatening allergies don't eat nuts - the problem is accidental exposure. All the parents are asking is a reasonable accommodation to minimize risk.
If arsenic was tasty and widely available as peanuts and but was only poison to a few including you and your kid what would you do?
If arsenic was tasty and widely available as peanuts and but was only poison to a few including you and your kid what would you do?
Behold the wonder of the invisible hand! Let the markets decide!
"The nut industry has lobbied against restricting nut consumption on airplanes, and Congress has prohibited the Department of Transportation from imposing any restrictions."
To hell with public health, human decency and the Bill of Rights. There's money to be made! God bless peanut butter!
"The nut industry has lobbied against restricting nut consumption on airplanes, and Congress has prohibited the Department of Transportation from imposing any restrictions."
To hell with public health, human decency and the Bill of Rights. There's money to be made! God bless peanut butter!
6
Why is it somehow obligatory to serve peanuts? The airlines are clearly not interested in providing food on flights anymore, so why are they beholden to the snack and beverage industries to serve these items? Clearly there are more complex issues at stake here as well, but I don't get this push back that it is a God-given inherent right to receive free peanuts because you are inside an airplane.
17
"But it does have a peanut policy, in which it states: “Requests that we not serve any particular foods, including tree nuts, on our flights cannot be granted. We are not able to provide nut ‘buffer zones,’ nor are we able to allow passengers to pre-board to wipe down seats and tray tables.”"
That's actually not a peanut policy, peanuts are ground nuts.
That's actually not a peanut policy, peanuts are ground nuts.
4
If your kid has a nut allergy either don't fly or find a way to protect your child yourself, ie., pack meals for the child, have him or her wear a mask, but don't put the burden on airlines. However, if you want to pay extra for nut-free service...that's acceptable, but don't expect everyone to kowtow to the trials and tribulations of your life.
13
So now airlines should allow people wearing masks to board planes. Can you not see the problem here?
1
I would like the Times to discuss the issue of travellers who have cat allergies. Individuals who have this allergy cannot receive any information in advance and so are forced to take the antihistamines 'just in case'.
Cats are allowed to sit on passenger's knees and are petted during the duration of the flight - spreading the noxious dander. Airlines allow two cats to travel in each class of service (vide LOT Airlines).
Airlines advise passengers that they can disembark if they don't like the fact that a cat is on board - despite not having any backup flights and the cat pax having booked later.
Cats are allowed to sit on passenger's knees and are petted during the duration of the flight - spreading the noxious dander. Airlines allow two cats to travel in each class of service (vide LOT Airlines).
Airlines advise passengers that they can disembark if they don't like the fact that a cat is on board - despite not having any backup flights and the cat pax having booked later.
8
Guess what, there is a cure for nut allergies (Google this if you don't know this to be true). Why don't these people put as much effort into curing their allergy as they do in fighting their "cause". I am tired of people imposing themselves on others when they travel. Everyone pays to be on the cramped metal tube when flying, if you can't travel with imposing demands on others because you haven't cured your potentially fatal allergy or you must have you faux service animal with you when flying, then don't fly because other people are under no obligation to accommodate you.
13
No, there isn't. Our allergist doesn't even do desensitizing therapy, it is dangerous and does not always work. You are woefully misinformed.
Believe me, if there was a cure we would be first in line. I resent your implication that I expose my son to life-threatening dangers on purpose.
Believe me, if there was a cure we would be first in line. I resent your implication that I expose my son to life-threatening dangers on purpose.
1
Did anyone actually read the article?? The family described in the first few paragraphs was not asking for any accomodations or "imposing themselves" on anyone. Passengers carrying epipens often feel the need to mention the allergy to explain to crew why they're carrying syringes in this terrorism-obsessed world. Saying that they have an allergy but DON'T need accommodations should not get them kicked off the airplane.
1
Actually, desensitization is proven not to work for the most-severe cases, precisely those whose allergies put them in jeopardy with minute exposure.
The more global issue is Helicopter Parenting has enclosed children in a bubble - exposed to nothing and allergic to everything, and of course, entitled parents now expect everyone else to accommodate their desires.
The dichotomy of bubble wrapped children growing up in a world where severe heat, flooding and super bugs will be part of their daily life will make peanuts be, well, just peanuts.
The dichotomy of bubble wrapped children growing up in a world where severe heat, flooding and super bugs will be part of their daily life will make peanuts be, well, just peanuts.
10
Fear of nuts? Charter a private jet. Next up in our culture of catering to rich and entitled people: "Service Dogs."
Translation: "Rich person pays their Doc to write a script saying "They need their pet for psychological comfort." This gives us dogs on airplanes and in grocery stores.
Translation: "Rich person pays their Doc to write a script saying "They need their pet for psychological comfort." This gives us dogs on airplanes and in grocery stores.
21
@Joe M - I agree with you 100%. Unfortunately with everyone claiming that they need a service dog, those that truly need one are looked at with disdain by everyone - me include!
Service Dogs are a bit of a scam!
Service Dogs are a bit of a scam!
5
From the article: “I said, ‘We have our medicine. We brought our own food, and we’re comfortable staying on the plane.’ I offered to sign a waiver,” said Dr. Bloom, an orthodontist from Clarksville, Md. “We were off the plane in two minutes.”
How is it "catering to rich and entitled people" when someone who is not asking for any kind of accomodation is kicked off a flight just for having a manageable medical condition?
How is it "catering to rich and entitled people" when someone who is not asking for any kind of accomodation is kicked off a flight just for having a manageable medical condition?
1
then don't fly
18
I fly quite a bit on various airlines...I haven't seen peanuts offered in years.
3
Really? I was on Delta just four days ago. First thing they handed me was a packet of honey roasted peanuts.
11
Southwest still offers them; other airlines may as well. Some airlines are more advanced regarding nut allergies and offer pretzels or chips. Jet Blue offers wonderful blue potato chips.
3
Based on this logic, I should be able to use my very long legs (something I have absolutely no control over) as a reason why the person in front of me should not be allowed to recline their seat and crush my knees for several hours.
188
You realize your discomfort with long legs is not the same as the anaphylactic shock people get when exposed to peanuts. Your discomfort is not life threatening. Very confused why you are having trouble seeing this. Imagine if the person you loved most in the world had a deadly peanut allergy. Your child, your spouse, your mom. Would you also say it shouldn't be addressed by the airline and your family would be relegated to a life of never flying as a result? EMPATHY.
17
because that might kill you if that happens? that's your logic?
2
NYC BD New York, NY: while sympathetic to your complaint about the narrowness of seats in the drive to improve profits, you realize that your knees are not "crushed", which would be a medical emergency if they were, but someone who cannot breathe due to an anaphylactoid reaction is a true medical emergency that could be prevented by prohibiting nuts as an airline policy and a crew member's admonishment in line with Federal regulations requiring adherence.
4
Absolutely shocked at the galling comments. Peanut allergies to NOT result from parental failings - helicoptering, a too-clean home, or avoidance of feeding peanuts to babies. The insensitivity is sick. Even the article says that 4% of all diversions result from allergies - which is very small! If needed, let go of your stupid peanuts! Find something else to eat and learn to be kind.
208
So how come Peanut Allergies was not a problem until 20-30 years ago. Nobody talks about the black death in ancient Italy from peanut allergies. This is a modern disease from modern parenting, there is ample evidence.
6
So that is something that scientists, who are studying actual facts, are looking into. Don't spread unsubstantiated hoax information. It's not doing anyone any good. You have no evidence, never mind "ample" evidence. If you did, it would be an easy fix and you'd be rich for letting all of us in on it.
3
Thank you TM. I cant believe it either. Literally hundreds of supposedly enlightened NYTimes readers being cruel, insensitve, uninformed and frankly odd when all is at stake here is a bag of peanuts.
Shame on our legislators for siding with the peanut lobby and forbidding airlines to restrict serving of nuts on flights. A human life is worth more than a contract to sell nuts.
135
Are people forced to fly on these planes? Is there a sufficient market for nut-free flights that a start up could succeed?
7
Wow, Observer, you are really out of touch. We're in Trumpland now. The corporation is supreme. Commerce is far more valuable than human life. Come on. Get in step!
3
such a great congress. Loss of peanut sales more important than a child's life, and then we have to listen ad nauseum about their anti abortion (prolife) policies.
2
It may be easier if airlines just stopped offering peanuts as a snack option. With so many people allergic to peanuts, the issue of risk comes into play and that seems like a simple solution.
262
What about the other passengers who might board the plane with a bag of peanuts bought at the airport newsstand? There is no "simple" solution except for those traveling with a peanut allergy to take whatever precautions they deem necessary: wiping down seats, wearing a mask, etc...
2
I agree. I have flown millions of miles and have never heard a passenger demand peanuts.
3
When did so many people become allergic to so many things?
1
We do not live in a risk free world. Asking an airline to accept the potential liability of a reaction to a known allergy is a burden to much to bare.
Blame trial lawyers who, would no doubt, sue the airline for "negligence" if the airlines made ANY accommodations and an attack still occurred.
Those efforts would always be to little in the eyes of the trial lawyers, so you get no accommodation at all.
Blame trial lawyers who, would no doubt, sue the airline for "negligence" if the airlines made ANY accommodations and an attack still occurred.
Those efforts would always be to little in the eyes of the trial lawyers, so you get no accommodation at all.
68
Not accurate. There is a difference between cross contamination by accident and actually serving the allergen. Most people who have peanut allergies or have children with peanut allergies bring sanitizers with them to clean the area they are sitting in. You clearly do not understand law and have decided that people dying from a peanut allergy is ok just because it doesn't affect you personally. Empathy is what is missing from commenters like you.
18
That is not how I read this article. Some people were refused to board the plane EVEN THOUGH they offered to sign a waiver letting the airline out of any responsibility. This is discrimination.
13
Yay Delta! But seriously, the airlines are afraid of inflight anaphylaxis and rightly so. Nuts and nut dust is everywhere since the airlines have always pushed nut snacks and although many airlines now offer alternative snacks, who knows what remains behind, even after a good cleaning?
My children have nut allergies but I would never request pre-boarding. Be ready to wipe down when you board, people always do other annoying things that slow boarding so whatever. Make sure your kids avoid touching anything until you are finished and if you are really worried, have them wear a face mask and tell the flight attendants some story to rationalize it. It is just a difficult situation and the risks are real. But since airlines do not want to risk have an in-flight event naturally some of them will try to avoid flying with at-risk people.
My children have nut allergies but I would never request pre-boarding. Be ready to wipe down when you board, people always do other annoying things that slow boarding so whatever. Make sure your kids avoid touching anything until you are finished and if you are really worried, have them wear a face mask and tell the flight attendants some story to rationalize it. It is just a difficult situation and the risks are real. But since airlines do not want to risk have an in-flight event naturally some of them will try to avoid flying with at-risk people.
23
Wow! Just WOW! Reading some of these responses makes it very clear to me how Trump has made it to be President.
So many people on here are not only misinformed and/or ignorant, but plane angry, nasty, ugly souls. The price you paid for a plane ticket is more important than the life of another human being! How sad... is this really the world we now live in?
Do you people really care more about a nut than a child going into anaphylactic shock just because YOU needed to not be so inconvienced by the thought of your foot not having peanuts in it for a 3 hour period of being on an airplane! You cannot bear the idea that peanuts are not going to be served en route to your Las Vegas vacation from Phoenix? What is wrong with you people??????
So many people on here are not only misinformed and/or ignorant, but plane angry, nasty, ugly souls. The price you paid for a plane ticket is more important than the life of another human being! How sad... is this really the world we now live in?
Do you people really care more about a nut than a child going into anaphylactic shock just because YOU needed to not be so inconvienced by the thought of your foot not having peanuts in it for a 3 hour period of being on an airplane! You cannot bear the idea that peanuts are not going to be served en route to your Las Vegas vacation from Phoenix? What is wrong with you people??????
351
In rights jurisprudence, we don't reduce things to the lowest common denominator. We don't restrict libraries from keeping books that are inappropriate for children, and we don't restrict airlines from serving food that's inappropriate for a small part of the population.
13
Nobody has served peanuts on airlines in years. The parents were displaying extreme neurotic behavior which is okay in the privacy of their home.
1
Does that mean we can't have shellfish on planes either? Or milk, or eggs, or gluten? All are common allergens. By the way, that's a nice, if unintended, pun cum malapropism: yes, the commenters are "plane angry."
2
Seriously? Hiring a lawyer to file a complaint with the government? Everyone wants special privileges.
I don't blame the airlines here: if someone's going to consider suing for the "right" to travel on an airline, the next suit will be for the "right" to preboard, the "right" to have flight attendants sanitize surrounding seats and the "right" to dictate what other passengers can eat. Then if someone has an outbreak, it will be a suit for damages.
No one has to vacation in London or Turks and Caicos Islands; if you want to, you should follow the rules, or pick a different airline, or pay for a private plane without peanuts.
I don't blame the airlines here: if someone's going to consider suing for the "right" to travel on an airline, the next suit will be for the "right" to preboard, the "right" to have flight attendants sanitize surrounding seats and the "right" to dictate what other passengers can eat. Then if someone has an outbreak, it will be a suit for damages.
No one has to vacation in London or Turks and Caicos Islands; if you want to, you should follow the rules, or pick a different airline, or pay for a private plane without peanuts.
228
The families mentioned in the article brought their own food and their own medications and merely wanted to do what they could to prevent a problem in the air. AA's police doesn't even allow the family to wipe down the tray before the allergic person takes their seat. That's not a fair or thought-out policy and seems designed to avoid literally any chance of a future lawsuit from an allergy sufferer.
30
Correction: AA doesn't allows the family to PRE BOARD to wipe down their tray table. And what's wrong with that? Wiping down a tray table takes all of two seconds. You don't need to pre-board to do that.
The family is more than free to wipe down the tray table when it's their turn to board. I often wipe down tray tables (not because of peanut allergies, but because various reports say they're germy) with an alcohol wipe. I've never needed to pre-board to do that, and no crew member has ever objected.
The family is more than free to wipe down the tray table when it's their turn to board. I often wipe down tray tables (not because of peanut allergies, but because various reports say they're germy) with an alcohol wipe. I've never needed to pre-board to do that, and no crew member has ever objected.
11
ADA has been the law in this country for a very long time. Surely AA's attorneys have gotten up to speed by now.
1
This is the craziest attempt to board early! At any time, many, many people, anywhere, have allergies, physical infirmities or healing injuries, while others are short or tall or skinny or obese or are sad or happy. They do not board airplanes early, demand seats on mass transportation, get to use the carpool lanes and or get seated immediately at restaurants. Any one with those issues could just as easily make some convoluted case that their "issue" merited special attention. As a result of the airlines offering free storage of luggage in the cabin and charging for luggage in the storage compartment (should be reversed), everyone, including parents of kids with nut allergies wants to get on early to access overhead storage space. Its that simple.
28
Agree 100% - especially hate it with Southwest who allows pre-boarders to take the seats in the front of the plane. If you pre-board - which I oppose - you should be limited to the rear of the plane, period.
2
RJ brilliant idea. Put the people who need a wheel chair or who have limited mobility in the rear of the plane. Your intelligence is stellar.
3
Maybe the difference is that the things you list don't have the possibility of resulting in the person's death?
1
I'm sorry, but was this ever an issue before Helicopter Parenting?
118
Yes it was. Your medical knowledge is pathetic.
11
Yes. One of my friends who is in his late 70s has a severe peanut allergy and has gone in to shock as a result. It was always there.
5
I'm 51 and have had life-threatening nut allergies all of my life. Peanut allergies are on the rise. And you're not sorry.
3
Why wouldn't airlines remove peanuts from the menu? This seems like a no-brainer. There are a ton of other snacks they could serve. Shame on the airlines.
100
Because peanuts are the only thing that us folks with gluten allergies & intolerances CAN eat.
1
Really? The only thing? You can't bring your own cheese or raisins or any of the many gluten-free snacks sold in stores these days?
4
Claire F. - A gluten allergy will not kill you. A peanut allergy will kill you. Get a grip on yourself. Peanuts are NOT the only thing people with gluten allergies can eat. Maybe you are allergic to compassion! If all you are eating is peanuts see a doctor.
7
I was on a flight last year and everyone was informed that no nuts would be served because someone on the plane had a nut allergy. Sure, it was just a bag of peanuts, but in this day and age of airline parsimony, I look forward to the lowly perks the airlines still see fit to dole out.
If someone has a nut allergy, come prepared, and bring an Epipen on board. One person's special needs should not override the interests of everyone else on the plane.
If someone has a nut allergy, come prepared, and bring an Epipen on board. One person's special needs should not override the interests of everyone else on the plane.
94
OH NO! How did you ever survive your flight? Are you OK?
I'm sorry, but these comments enrage me. It's a bag of peanuts. To my son, it might as well be poison. As the article states, an Epi-pen injection would help, but it may not work. My family recognizes that we can't keep him safe 100%. We try and board early and wipe down all the surfaces. We also ask that passengers around us not have peanuts. We are happy to pay for whatever snacks the airlines provide in return. Now even these minimal measures are being taken away. Looks like it's Delta or nothing for us.
I'm sorry, but these comments enrage me. It's a bag of peanuts. To my son, it might as well be poison. As the article states, an Epi-pen injection would help, but it may not work. My family recognizes that we can't keep him safe 100%. We try and board early and wipe down all the surfaces. We also ask that passengers around us not have peanuts. We are happy to pay for whatever snacks the airlines provide in return. Now even these minimal measures are being taken away. Looks like it's Delta or nothing for us.
15
An EpiPen buys time. It's not a treatment method. Eat pretzels and wait an hour to eat your peanuts. The actual life of a person should override the interests of people who can't go two hours without eating some peanuts.
4
People with allergies DO come prepared. They bring their own foods, and emergency medication. But it sounds like you may not understand how epipens work. In the case of a severe reaction, the epipen TEMPORARILY allows a person to breathe and stabilizes blood pressure. The person then needs to get to an ER for treatment immediately. That's why airplane flights are a different case from all of the other places where allergy sufferers are at risk-- no ER in reach! Wouldn't a perk like pretzels or cookies do just as well-- without risking someone else's life?
2
Bring medication, wipe down your area, and keep your mouth shut. Problem solved.
280
And if the airlines must capitulate and give these "victims" special pre-board status, make sure that their seating is limited to the VERY REAR of the plane. No exceptions.
5
Buck California Palo Alto, CA: your limited solution anchored with an obtuse proviso does not solve the problem for people with anaphylactoid reactions. Problem not solved. Do you need nuts so badly that your serum nut-titer must be kept high or you go into shock?
3
@sbmd - and at what point does it stop? If the only food allergies that existed were nut-related, I MIGHT see your point in trampling the rights of others. As it stands, no way.
1
If they want to "fly like everybody else in the US" then they deserve no special "pre-boarding" status. Make them sign waivers (forcing them to give up their right to sue) and let them take their chances. Both sides of the argument seem REALLY stupid.
25
The point is to get airlines to stop serving nuts. Lots of people actually have severe allergies that can kill them when being exposed to nuts. My wife cannot touch her eyes while on airplanes because the swell up like gulf balls and start oozing all over her face. Why? Because peanut residue is on everything in the airplane. Why? Because they serve nuts. Why? Because somebody makes lots of money selling nuts to airlines.
And that's just topical. If it gets in her mouth she can die.
They stopped doing this some years ago and had no issues flying the darn planes. Then for completely absurd reasons all of a sudden nuts are everywhere again on airplanes.
The point is signing a waiver does not stop airlines from actually serving the nuts. Because they don't care about a few kids dying if they are not going to be sued over it. If they have to worry about being sued when a kid dies because there is peanut residue all over the plane because they are serving nuts to every passenger on every flight, well they'll just stop doing that and nobody will notice, except people like my wife who will actually be able to see out of her eyeballs when flying.
And that's just topical. If it gets in her mouth she can die.
They stopped doing this some years ago and had no issues flying the darn planes. Then for completely absurd reasons all of a sudden nuts are everywhere again on airplanes.
The point is signing a waiver does not stop airlines from actually serving the nuts. Because they don't care about a few kids dying if they are not going to be sued over it. If they have to worry about being sued when a kid dies because there is peanut residue all over the plane because they are serving nuts to every passenger on every flight, well they'll just stop doing that and nobody will notice, except people like my wife who will actually be able to see out of her eyeballs when flying.
5
If you read the article, one of the people interviewed DID offer to sign a waiver, and was refused.
1
I agree with the pilot.
While I sympathize with anyone going into shock, I have often wondered how many nut allergies (and their alleged severity) are the products of over active imaginations on the part of the (usually wealthy white) parents.
While I sympathize with anyone going into shock, I have often wondered how many nut allergies (and their alleged severity) are the products of over active imaginations on the part of the (usually wealthy white) parents.
165
Charlie San Francisco: racist remark, to say nothing of its error: most parents are not "wealthy" (except comparatively - you may be very poor) and do not suffer from "over-active" imaginations; many have experienced a traumatic rush to the ER because their children suddenly can't breathe. And though you say you "sympathize", I doubt you really can.
16
Oh my God! How lucky you must be to not have to see your child hooked up to an IV or breathing through a tube due to a severe anaphylactic reaction to eating a food (mislabeled) with tree nuts. It's not 'imagination' as you so insensitively put it. And it has nothing to do with race or means. It's a reality that health-privileged people like you don't have to deal with. Is it really such an inconvenience to ask anyone to not eat nuts on a flight? Aren't there thousands of other foods people can stuff their faces with? It's so cruel to read reactions like yours.
7
Peanut allergies are more prevalent among males with verified African ancestry. FYI.
I wish we could create a moratorium on using the word "white" for a few months. It would require us all to learn to debate more intelligently and maybe even understand....
I wish we could create a moratorium on using the word "white" for a few months. It would require us all to learn to debate more intelligently and maybe even understand....
4
Letting the airlines punish those with a nut-allergy and allowing cats on planes despite the significant number of people with dander allergies is just one more example of corporations turning a deaf ear in the name of profits. Is it so important to sell nuts that a person has to fear for their health? And the nonsense that airlines cannot prohibit individuals from eating nuts if they bring their own blatantly clashes with the Federal proviso that warns passengers that they must comply with the directives of the flight crew or risk fine or imprisonment.
25
Dander allergies are typically annoying, not deadly.
Dander allergies are merely annoying unless they trigger a severe asthma attack.
1
So, as a passenger on a hugely expensive airline flight, me and all the other passengers need to take the risk that one person with a peanut allergy will cancel our flight or turn is around mid flight. ridiculous. these parents need to realize that they are not the most important people on the plane. This is an example of pure narcissist behavior. if their peanut allergies are so dangerous they shouldn't fly. or this litigious richies that can afford to sue should hire their own plane.
248
me Seattle: only a pure narcissist would say that their convenience trounces anyone else's concerns about their health. I hope one day you are thrown off a plane because someone doesn't like your looks. And for the answer to your question: YES, one person with a health problem can force your flight to turn around mid-flight [although "cancel" indicates how poorly you thought this through]. If you don't like it, take the train.
19
Wait, so you love peanuts and believe that other people in this world need to spend their entire lives never going on an airplane just because you cannot go for a few hours without being SERVED a peanut. You just cannot stand the idea that a servant will come along the isle and serve YOU peanuts. For even 1 hour. You just can't stand that thought.
Wait, so who thinks they are the most important person?
Wait, so who thinks they are the most important person?
22
Oh, come on! If people have allergies, what's the problem with them wiping down a seat and the person next to them not eating peanuts? The way the airlines are going we won't even get those in the future! And allergies do not equate with narcissism.
6
Very sad. Parents-to-be can reduce such problems by adding peanut butter to their infants' diets. And, let them play in dirt and around animals. Young immune systems need exposure to a range of antigens.
120
This works only for people with extremely mild allergies.
8
Good to know that you have solved this problem before medical science has. They are going to make you very rich one day.
4
Read the literature. Read the studies.
1
The article said it well but it's worthy of also flagging here - Delta does a wonderful, amazing job with their policy. Those of us who travel with severe nut allergies know that the plane environment (and indeed the world) entails risk. Delta's policy helps mitigate that just a tiny bit and most important it makes allergic customers feel welcomed. On American I never disclose for fear of being removed! I just sneakily wipe down the area.
Btw next time you're on Any plane take a look at the floor by your feet in the channel where the seat attaches to the plane. It will be filled with nuts if all sorts! I guarantee.
Btw next time you're on Any plane take a look at the floor by your feet in the channel where the seat attaches to the plane. It will be filled with nuts if all sorts! I guarantee.
12
Then doesn't that mean that the market has solved the problem? Allergy-sufferers should fly Delta, and avoid flying other airlines to destinations where Delta flies.
1
It's a great choice for Delta, and I do fly them over other airlines but I would hardly call this a free market solve given not all airlines are equal in terms of footprint and reach. Additionally, the point of the lawsuit is that American actively DISCRIMINATES against those with this medical condition. That's a *bit* different than simply not offering the service that Delta offers. Unfortunately for all of us, this nut allergy condition continues to increase in the US and in other countries; no one knows why. Anyone who has witnessed a person, child, another human being have a severe reaction would want to take (easy!) steps to help prevent it from happening. Wiping down a seat during pre-board is a small thing to ask.
The article says American does not serve nuts on its flights. How much more accommodating should they be?
How can this be an issue? Serve pretzels. Next up, pre-flight health screenings to keep diabetics and people with possible heart conditions off flights.
45
To stabilize my blood sugar I need to eat a peanut butter sandwich when I am flying because I am a vegetarian and the meals, if provided are pure carbohydrate. So this issue goes beyond simply serving peanuts on the flight. Are my needs going to be accommodated? What about all the other allergies? What happens when people with peanut allergies travel on buses and trains? I have not heard this issue raised in those transportation contexts?
1
Then the pretzel allergy lobby will rise up. What's next?
1
OK, so we ban the nuts. What about all the people with allergies to animals? Do we ban the growing number of people flying with "support animals", or the people with allergies to them? Do we add nuts and all food products (since they might have nuts) to the TSA's list of banned substances? Regulate airline meals?
This is a slippery slope, and the more we try to regulate behavior rather than maintain a society based on community the more we slip....
This is a slippery slope, and the more we try to regulate behavior rather than maintain a society based on community the more we slip....
218
"Do we ban the growing number of people flying with "support animals""
Yes. From now on, we all fly naked, encased in plastic wrap.
Yes. From now on, we all fly naked, encased in plastic wrap.
11
I'm-for-tolerance us: "the more we try to regulate behavior...."
What exactly do you mean? Whose behavior - the nut eaters or the nut-allergic? You can't regulate the behavior of the latter. A society based on community recognizes that some people are nut-allergic and moves to protect them through regulation.
What exactly do you mean? Whose behavior - the nut eaters or the nut-allergic? You can't regulate the behavior of the latter. A society based on community recognizes that some people are nut-allergic and moves to protect them through regulation.
14
You are self-named "I'm-for-tolerance"
But you are not actually.
The core problem with your examples is the nut allergy can be life threatening. Hence they carry epi-pens at all times, etc. Then you throw in wacky extreme scenarios that dont make any sense. Please dont serve on a jury making decisions that affect others lives.
But you are not actually.
The core problem with your examples is the nut allergy can be life threatening. Hence they carry epi-pens at all times, etc. Then you throw in wacky extreme scenarios that dont make any sense. Please dont serve on a jury making decisions that affect others lives.
7
I'd like a show of hands of those people who are willing to forgo eating peanuts on airplanes. Seriously, its not like the peanuts keep the plane in the air. I much rather eat a cookie or pretzel and know that my fellow passengers are safe.
406
No airline in the world serves peanuts in planes anymore. There are people allergic to shellfish, eggs, pets and myriad other things. How far will you require businesses to go? What happens when these kids grow up and have to go to work, do all the cafeteria's, break rooms and luncheons have to be sanitized and wiped before his majesty arrives?
61
Show of hands right here. 7% of the population is allergic or intolerant to cookies, pretzels, crackers. Peanuts are the only snacks I can usually have on a plane. A celiac (allergy) will have the same reaction to cookies/crackers that person allergic to peanuts will to peanuts.
And how exactly can the airlines make sure NO passenger brings peanuts on board? Or should the carry-on luggage of every passenger be checked to make sure they are not carrying food with peanuts in them, such as protein bars, which I bring on every flight?
It is unfortunate that some people are allergic to certain foods, but that does not mean the rest of the world has to accommodate their every need.
It is unfortunate that some people are allergic to certain foods, but that does not mean the rest of the world has to accommodate their every need.
4
As a parent of a child with a deadly peanut allergy what annoys me most are sometimes well-meaning but thoughtless reactions that erode trust.
- "There is no label so i am sure its OK" alternating with "There is no label so you shouldn't have anything just to be safe"
- "If you ask me more I will have to take you off the flight"
- " Yeah, I hear you can die of even a trace"
The understandable reaction of a 10 year old to this array of confused responses is genuine terror and refusal to eat any food for hours until we arrive at a safe place even if he is very hungry.
We now bring our own safe food and increasingly many airlines and restaurants have learned to clearly identify allergens, make reasonable accommodations and communicate unambiguously. But not all.
It's not hard or costly for anyone, you just have to be willing to learn and care.
- "There is no label so i am sure its OK" alternating with "There is no label so you shouldn't have anything just to be safe"
- "If you ask me more I will have to take you off the flight"
- " Yeah, I hear you can die of even a trace"
The understandable reaction of a 10 year old to this array of confused responses is genuine terror and refusal to eat any food for hours until we arrive at a safe place even if he is very hungry.
We now bring our own safe food and increasingly many airlines and restaurants have learned to clearly identify allergens, make reasonable accommodations and communicate unambiguously. But not all.
It's not hard or costly for anyone, you just have to be willing to learn and care.
33
OK, if they have to divert the plane due to your kid's allergy, would YOU foot the bill for all the other passengers that have missed flights and ruined vacations? Everybody can't do everything and I am tired of accommodating this obsession. Like the new rise in "service" dogs.
299
The Observer NYC: that's right fellow, if someone has a heart attack they should pay for everyone else's inconvenience. Hope it doesn't happen to you one day, but I am sure you are a hypocrite on this point.
31
You are so right about "service" dogs. Seems like they're everywhere lately. Listening to someone talk about their dog, it seems all you have to do is fit your dog with a vest of some kind, say they are service dogs and you're now allowed to take the animals anywhere.
4
Wow-people are so very very selfish.
7
do these people also announce their allergies to the grocery store manager every time they go shopping? do they bring a mop with them to wipe down the aisles? do they ask their schools to tell 99% of the rest if the students to not bring peanut butter, a low cost and very healthful staple of protein and fat? don't answer that last one; we already know.
did you notice most of the parents in this article are doctors and lawyers? they could afford to have their children medically desensitized to peanut proteins. why don't they do that? or is it just easier to impose your will on hundreds of people around you every time you go out into the big, bad, dangerous world?
did you notice most of the parents in this article are doctors and lawyers? they could afford to have their children medically desensitized to peanut proteins. why don't they do that? or is it just easier to impose your will on hundreds of people around you every time you go out into the big, bad, dangerous world?
430
I don't know, Rob - do you announce that an inconsiderate jerk has arrived every time you get on a plane or go to the supermarket? And I take it that you're also an expert on the uniform efficacy of nut allergy desensitization... Fascinating.
110
Sorry but no. The issue is that peanuts are served en mass thru out the plane interior. So it is a "concentrated chance of peanuts" everywhere inside the plane. Your example of going to the grocery store doesnt work at all.
I see what you are trying to say (which is a variation of the "blame game"), but you went to scenario extremes that dont support your point. Your argument is very Trump-like by the way.
I see what you are trying to say (which is a variation of the "blame game"), but you went to scenario extremes that dont support your point. Your argument is very Trump-like by the way.
33
It would be a little easier to get my son to a doctor if he had an allergic reaction in a grocery store, then at 50,000 feet, don't you think? Our son sits at a 'nut-free' table at school, but no we don't ask the school to eliminate peanut butter.
Our allergist doesn't even do desensitizing therapy, it is dangerous and not proven to work.
All we want is to be able to travel on vacation and not have our son die on the way there. But I'm sure that's not as important as you having the snack you want.
Our allergist doesn't even do desensitizing therapy, it is dangerous and not proven to work.
All we want is to be able to travel on vacation and not have our son die on the way there. But I'm sure that's not as important as you having the snack you want.
33
Even if the airline doesn't serve nuts , passengers may bring their own nuts aboard and may not hear the flight attendant's plea, or passengers may have eaten nuts or nut- based foods in the terminal and still carry trace amounts of allergens on their hands or clothing. It seems extremely difficult, if not impossible, to create a nut-free environment onboard an airplane. Good luck trying to create a safe space for those with food allergies.
16
Was on a Delta flight last Saturday and they announced a "peanut allergy on-board". Cool. However I was on a flight (in the last five years) where upon being upgraded to Business class I encountered a couple across the aisle from me with two Yorkshire terriers. When I spoke to the flight attendant about my allergies to pets (asthma) she responded " well, they paid extra", and "you have your inhaler don't you?".
316
The NYTimes would write a series of scathing articles about how the big old mean airline is denying service animals because asthmatics are on the plane. Animals are people now! "Paid extra" is the airline's way to coping with it; public opinion would most certainly be on the animals' side because there's enough people who think dogs should be allowed almost anywhere.
3
I am also allergic to dogs--and to the people who insist on bringing them on flights!
5
Do you think Delta should have thrown the Yorkies off the plane? Too bad there wasn't a tank of rushing water at hand, right?
Nut Allergies, Wheat allergies, Cat Allergies, Dog Allergies, Perfume Allergies. You find the sources of all these allergies on an airplane and some people have more severe reactions to these things than other people. Quite frankly, I would not suffer if peanuts, dogs, or cats were no longer allowed on planes. I suspect that airlines have a business model which states it is better to cater to the pet owning, peanut eating crowd - than those allergic to them. Until then, it's hard to imagine that much can be done for the people who suffer from these things.
6
It's rather quaint that the peanut allergy sufferers feel entitled to change the environment of their entire airplane to suit their needs. What about the rest of us? How about even adequate seating & the most marginal comfort for normal people? Maybe if airplanes were not flying prisons, people with allergies or any kind of discomfort exacerbated by stress would feel better, & so would the rest of us.
13
This article repeatedly refers to passengers' "severe allergies" or "life-threatening allergies." This isn't medically accurate, and it perpetuates a dangerous misunderstanding of allergy. ANYONE with a true allergy (what allergists call an "IgE allergy") can have a reaction to their allergen, and any given reaction may range from mild to severe. The severity of past reactions provides no measure of the severity of reactions going forward. In other words, if you or your child has a true allergy (not a food intolerance), you have a severe allergy. Many of the tragic cases of children who die from allergic reactions are because all previous reactions had been mild, so the family did not carry an epi-pen or take other precautions (like wiping down airplane seats).
30
The airlines haven't kept up with the modern day incidence of allergies. Airlines have not prioritized these health concerns but they need to . In the meantime, they have made it easier for passengers to bring their pets on board. Doesnt make sense.
20
Amazing; while I knew of peanut allergies, and issues in airports and airplanes, I wasn't aware of the very restrictive rules in place. While I can sympathize with the passengers who have been inconvenienced by such rules, I believe the airlines, if they choose to keep such rules in place, must offer alternatives to these passengers, with allergies, who need to fly. I was recently in the Manchester, UK airport - the entire airport stopped selling peanuts! I was stunned when they told me it was due to people with allergies. I ate pretzels instead.
3
Why mention the nut allergic, then? Just to get attention?
If you have these many psychological problems, just stay home. Please.
If you have these many psychological problems, just stay home. Please.
11
Best wishes to the families pursuing litigation against the appalling and discriminatory treatment from the airlines. It's unfortunate that Congress and the FAA have abandoned passenger rights and protections, making such litigation necessary.
15
So sad that these hypochondriac parents according to most recent studies created the buffer zones for their infants and now everyone else is forced to accommodate the resulting allergies. Let your children play in the dirt! Exposure, exposure, exposure. You want a kid in a bubble? Have a kid in a bubble but top imposing this sickness on the world!
45
If the allergy is so serious it might require medical treatment, the person should not be flying on a commercial flight. Even if the airlines are forced to comply, nobody could guarantee a passenger would not bring nuts aboard. For vegans, nuts are an easy and convenient source of energy. In addition, do people with nut allergies not go to ball games, concerts, etc. where nuts might be served? Do they go to supermarkets or restaurants where nuts might be present? While I understand well the frustrations of dealing with a physical issue such as an allergy, the world in its entirety cannot be made to conform to those few who want this accommodation.
33
Dianne Fecteau Florida: no, you don't understand Dianne Fecteau. There are times people with nut allergies do have to leave restaurants where nut dishes are prominently served. In the fresh air of stadium it is not a problem. Nuts are usually not displayed unwrapped in a supermarket. People with latex allergies cannot enter a tire store due to aerosolized latex; similarly people with nut allergies are at risk in the enclosed atmosphere of an airplane. Lastly, people are not asking the world to accommodate them, just the airlines, which have responsibility for public safety, not the energy requirements of vegans, who can find them in other foods.
5
Do people with nut allergies avoid entire countries (e.g., Malaysia, Indonesia) and continents (e.g. Africa) where nuts are ubiquitous in open-air and enclosed public places?
7
Oh, poor vegans, having no nuts because someone else might actually die.
The difference between a plane flight and the other occasions/places you cite must be apparent even to you, I should think: in none of them are you bottled up with recirculated air in a tiny metal cylinder for hours and hours on end, with no fresh air available.
The difference between a plane flight and the other occasions/places you cite must be apparent even to you, I should think: in none of them are you bottled up with recirculated air in a tiny metal cylinder for hours and hours on end, with no fresh air available.
2
Why is it so hard to accommodate our fellow,citizens. I don't have any allergies but see no problem with removing nuts from the flight or do any pre flight adjustments to help a fellow traveler.
Airline pay attention. We are a caring country in which we actually care for our fellow citizens and as such will react negatively to your business model if you treat us with such disrespect and disregard.
Airline pay attention. We are a caring country in which we actually care for our fellow citizens and as such will react negatively to your business model if you treat us with such disrespect and disregard.
49
@Bobby Virk
I agree; we should accommodate those with nut allergies. But, unfortunately, we are not in any sense a caring country. (See for example, lack of national health care, lack of maternity leave, lack of workers' rights, etc.)
I agree; we should accommodate those with nut allergies. But, unfortunately, we are not in any sense a caring country. (See for example, lack of national health care, lack of maternity leave, lack of workers' rights, etc.)
4
Maybe if so many of us hadn't been subject to kicking, screeching, smells, crying, whining, fidgeting etc. from kiddie passengers we'd be more likely to accommodate them. As it is, any excuse to keep them off the plane sounds great to me.
Hop in that station wagon and see the USA, folks. Little Lily and Rowan can jet around when they've outgrown their allergies.
Hop in that station wagon and see the USA, folks. Little Lily and Rowan can jet around when they've outgrown their allergies.
4
Since cardiovascular and chest pain events are the most common reason for plane diversions, perhaps the airlines should begin removing passengers who don't look physically fit.
194
Yes, and old people. Let's ban old people. It would cut down on Thanksgiving traffic.
4
This x 1000!
Diverting a flight because of heart attacks is more than 500 times more common than diverting because of an anaphylactic allergic reaction.
Diverting a flight because of heart attacks is more than 500 times more common than diverting because of an anaphylactic allergic reaction.
3
So tired of these people with nut allergies and their constant whining. Glad to hear AA finally did something right and not hold up or disrupt the flight for everyone else on the plane who can eat, stand and be near nuts.
26
Lucky for you that you don't have to deal with nut allergies. How fortunate you are. There but for the grace of God go you.
19
TM, does your comment mean: There by the grace of god go you? Or anyone with a nut allergy? Or any allergy?
As a parent of a now grown child with nut allergies, I had two experiences while traveling for business (without my child). On one airline, the attendant announced that a child with allergies was seated in seat x, row y, and they wouldn't be serving nuts. On a Jet Blue red eye from SF, the attendant announced that a traveler had a severe nut allergy and they woundn't be serving nuts. He went on to say that they couldn't prevent you from eating your own nuts, but if you wanted to risk an unexpected stop in the middle of the country for an emergency medical need, by all means, enjoy your snack. The first airline drew attention to and stigmatized the child, JetBlue used humor to make a person safe. Guess which airline I fly all the time now?
185
OTOH, it should be noted that people who follow low-carb diets, whether because they're diabetic or losing weight or just into Paleo, often eat nuts (particularly almonds and macademia nuts) and can't eat pretzels. The issue at hand is peanuts more than true nuts such as almonds, so I don't see why all nuts must be banned.
2
Hopefully, one that does not allow people with serious nut allergies on board.
2
No other industry has such a hateful relationship with its customers. The hotel industry is moving in that direction with its motion sensors that turn off the air conditioning when you go to sleep.
6
The Cable industry would like a word with you.
14
Then don't put the thermostat on "Auto"
4
It is perfectly appropriate to ask the flyer to leave if they have informed the crew that there 'could be a problem'.
No regulation required despite Dr. Blooms intent to 'forewarn' others.
Imagine, a periodic flyer walks onto a plane and says...'you all have to react to me'.
She should rent a private plane so she can be in FULL-CONTROL.
No regulation required despite Dr. Blooms intent to 'forewarn' others.
Imagine, a periodic flyer walks onto a plane and says...'you all have to react to me'.
She should rent a private plane so she can be in FULL-CONTROL.
23
A true definition of a dilemma---both sides have a point.
11
A generation ago, nut allergies did not exist. American Association of Pediatricians has issued guidelines recently that the key to preventing nut allergies is to introduce nuts to infants early in life.
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/01/05/well/eat/feed-your-kids-peanuts-early...
It is sad that it took Pediatricians so long to get clued into this. This is a wake up call to all the dog allergy, cat allergy, pollen allergy, House Dust Mite Allergy, Ragweed allergy crowd that you cannot prevent allergies by living in a sterile environment, rather confront the allergy by gradually increasing contact with the allergen. Lots of people with pet allergies are buying new homes because they do not want to take a chance with a pre-owned home in case a pet lived there. They may be condemning their children to a more severe form of the allergy by going into a progressively more sterile environment.
Airlines should stop serving nuts, period and I don't think any airline is serving nuts anymore so why do these parent still need to pre-board to wipe tables? clearly part of the conversation that led to this airline decision is missing.
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/01/05/well/eat/feed-your-kids-peanuts-early...
It is sad that it took Pediatricians so long to get clued into this. This is a wake up call to all the dog allergy, cat allergy, pollen allergy, House Dust Mite Allergy, Ragweed allergy crowd that you cannot prevent allergies by living in a sterile environment, rather confront the allergy by gradually increasing contact with the allergen. Lots of people with pet allergies are buying new homes because they do not want to take a chance with a pre-owned home in case a pet lived there. They may be condemning their children to a more severe form of the allergy by going into a progressively more sterile environment.
Airlines should stop serving nuts, period and I don't think any airline is serving nuts anymore so why do these parent still need to pre-board to wipe tables? clearly part of the conversation that led to this airline decision is missing.
8
This is nonsense, you are misinterpreting the study, and there is far from a consensus on this issue. Most people who have allergies did *not* grow up in a "sterile environment" (if those even exist.)
5
Or the allergy sufferer can do the responsible thing herself and clean everything and be careful with her touch. Nah, better to make a scene with the airline and others because you are a victim. Of something.
11
mainliner Pennsylvania: might come to surprise you, when your physician tells you that you have diabetes or heart disease, that it just is a condition you have to live with and not consider yourself "a victim". And if your physician adds that you have a serious allergic condition, but that you should not consider yourself "a victim", but do what is in your best interests to ensure your health, you will understand, perhaps, that this is not an issue about being "a victim".
4
Maybe give actually reading the article a try.
1
For the history of mankind people ate nuts and there were no problems. Why is there suddenly this relatively common problem of extreme nut allergies?
Perhaps people with extreme nut allergies can offer to take the usually undesirable last row of the airplane to minimize the number of people sitting near them?
Perhaps people with extreme nut allergies can offer to take the usually undesirable last row of the airplane to minimize the number of people sitting near them?
13
And they're so nutritious besides, and they taste swell.
Allergies to foods represent a serious medical condition. For some, ingestion of the allergen (nuts, dairy, soy, shellfish etc) can be catastrophic. Food allergies need to be recognized as medical disabilities with all the associated federal protections (i.e. Americans with Disabilities Act) of other physical disabilities. Unfortunately as pointed out in this article, this is not always the case.
38
Why is this issue only coming up with peanuts? If someone is allergic to dairy products, will airline passengers be asked to refrain from drinking milk and eating cheese? I am a vegetarian and those are the only foods I can eat if I want to eat under anything other than pure carbohydrates, which I cannot because of blood sugar issues.
Not being able to fly to Disney or to Granny's Yuma winter house is not a disability.
5
Wonderful. Now everyone who has the sniffles when a peanut appears can claim to be "disabled" and collect Social Security benefits, free healthcare and other freebies. Now I get all the brouhaha about "nut allergies" and why these allergies occur so frequently when they didn't exist years ago. As always, follow the money.
3
Nut allergies must be extremely difficult for those who suffer them - but be aware that travel on public vehicles like airlines, trains, metroliners, etc., may threaten your life no matter how hard you try to minimize nut contact. Case in point: I was 3/4's through eating my brought-from-home PB&J sandwich while waiting for a domestic flight to take off, when an announcement in the cabin asked all passengers to please refrain from either eating or opening anything with nuts as a person on the flight was extremely allergic. Wow - I put away my mostly eaten sandwich, and felt bad for the poor sufferer - but the announcement came too late. Nothing untoward happened, I presume, but therein lies the danger to allergy sufferers. You really are better off traveling in your own vehicles. And, unless you own your own boat or plane, keep within continental boundaries accessible by road transport. Unless you have total control over what is served onboard.
113
Wow, really? 4% of the population should live an incredibly constrained life because it's inconvenient for the airline to allow them to board a few minutes early to wipe down their seats? Or even for people to refrain from eating a preferred snack for an hour or two?
7
I would imagine a fair number of passengers still have residue from their peanut-butter toast breakfast, especially kids who may have smeared it on clothing or hair, or otherwise are coming aboard contaminated.
With so many variables it's absurd for the parents of kids with peanut allergies to put the onus on passengers and airlines to keep them safe.
With so many variables it's absurd for the parents of kids with peanut allergies to put the onus on passengers and airlines to keep them safe.
5
This is just unconscionable. Clearly, regulatory action is needed, as it seems that human decency is in short supply.
85
Unconscionable? Really?
Hysteria over nut exposure is likely what caused the explosion in nut allergies over the last 30 years. Banning nuts from schools, day cares, hospitals, workplaces, planes, buses etc contributes greatly to the problem. This is what makes us sick. This is what's unconscionable. It must stop.
Hysteria over nut exposure is likely what caused the explosion in nut allergies over the last 30 years. Banning nuts from schools, day cares, hospitals, workplaces, planes, buses etc contributes greatly to the problem. This is what makes us sick. This is what's unconscionable. It must stop.
29
Sorry but I understand the airlines' issue. By offering to not serve nuts & inviting passengers on early to decontaminate, they are setting themselves up for a lawsuit. They cannot possibly ensure a contaminant free environment for someone whose allergies are that extreme. An airline can't control which other travelers have eaten & have on their hands or in their carry ons.
48
I remember the day I brought along a peanut butter sandwich in my snack bag for my flight from Boston to San Francisco. During the flight as I was just about to tap into my snacks it was announced that no peanut product was to be brought out by any passenger because one individual professed to a peanut allergy. My reaction was, that is some specific and extreme sensitivity. Also, what short notice! Empathy is all good and well; still, cannot the sufferer wear some kind of prophylactic?
8