For many people with food allergies, the one place they can count on total control is their own home, but what does one do if they need to travel?
Flying is a convenience of modern times, but a crypt for those with food allergies. The lack of airflow, space to move, and assured cleanliness is just the beginning of dangers lurking in a passenger plane.
Southwest Airlines still serves peanuts, but will advise the boarding agents of (that) flight to suspend the sale of peanuts. Southwest also encourages all passengers with food allergies to book a flight early in the morning due to cleaning schedules. Their mission is discussed here.
Delta and Northwest Airlines have not eliminated peanut products, but do offer a buffer zone. The zone requires the passengers of three rows in front and three rows behind to not have any peanut products or be served peanut products during the flight. Additional cleaning can be provided as well. Details are listed here.
American Airlines serves no peanut products in flight, but may serve products with other nut ingredients. Options of peanut-free meals are offered, along with provisions for other allergy-friendly options. The list of these meals and the peanut-allergy warning is found here.
The airlines listed are merely a snapshot of assistance given to allergy sufferers while in flight. Although no airline has prohibited passengers from bring certain foods on flight, they’ve made significant measures to assure the safety of passengers. Complaints in reference to any needs not met as promised by an airline can be found through the Aviation Consumer Protection Division.