Originally Posted by
TSORon
“we have proof that it does from various posters”. A post does not “proof” make.
We want you to get on that airplane. We want you go get through screening with as few problems as possible. So that we each get what we want, we must work together. You tell us what works for you, and if it meets screening requirements then you get to pass through the checkpoint. If not, well then we will do what we can to accommodate your needs. But the other passengers have needs, and one of those is to get on an aircraft knowing that all the other passengers have undergone the same level of screening that they have, and that they are safe to fly with. If the screening cannot meet that requirement because of a medical condition then there is a problem that needs to be resolved.
I am quite certain of my own experiences being proof, thank you very much. I am certain that others can link to other experiences including the posts from amputees, or the woman forced to disrobe for wearing a Thermacare patch through security.
As an example, when a TSO orders a passenger to move a body part which does not move, and then refuses to find an alternative method even after the passenger makes suggestions, that is not doing 'what we can to accommodate your needs'.
I have travelled with medical evacaution flights in other countries and cleared security with passengers with severely limited mobility and it has not been an issue.
Yet there are TSOs who seem to be unable or unwilling to find alternative solutions, and frankly I see that attitude here in this thread. Dismissing physical limitations by saying 'Everyone must give up something to travel' reflects the lack of knowledge or understanding of those limitations.
Again I ask - are TSOs given specific training on how to handle passengers with medical issues or physical limitations, such as the several examples given in this thread? Is there special training to handle passengers in wheelchairs, or with artificial limbs or other limitations or injuries? Does this training address how one can cause harm through some of the actions which TSOs take in a standard 'pat down'?