Originally Posted by Definitas

My issue with being bussed to the aircraft at LHR is that I have mobility issues and cannot cope with steps, especially if carrying hand luggage. Mrs Definitas doesn’t have any mobility issues but cannot manage boarding steps and carry two pieces of hand luggage. I admit that I require assistance but not in all situations and I try to manage without. We always allow loads of time and I can often make it to the gate without any problems but, when the dreaded bus gate rears its head, the provision of assistance at LHR is very poor. It has been known that I stand at the bottom of the steps Mrs D. does two trips taking one bag at a time, which is abysmal when it’s raining. There is never anyone positioned at the bottom of the steps to provide assistance where required and cabin crew do not monitor the steps. Occasionally an able bodied fellow passenger will kindly offer to help but usually everyone is head down and intent on boarding, especially if it’s raining. Requesting help at the gate is pretty much a waste of time and is even worse for arrivals.