Avoiding boarding/exiting by stairs?
#16
Suspended
Join Date: Aug 2010
Location: DCA
Programs: UA US CO AA DL FL
Posts: 50,262
There is (almost) always an alternative. But, you have to make this known. Sometimes in advance.
More and more airports are changing to the ramps with switchbacks for all passengers as it is easier and safer and frankly, expedites the process even in good weather.
More and more airports are changing to the ramps with switchbacks for all passengers as it is easier and safer and frankly, expedites the process even in good weather.
#17
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Jun 2013
Posts: 17,389
#18
Moderator: Information Desk, Women Travelers, FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Jul 2003
Location: Chicago, IL, USA
Programs: AA Gold
Posts: 15,637
I've moved this to our Disability Forum, since members who post there may also be interested in the responses.
chgoeditor
co-mod, Info Desk
chgoeditor
co-mod, Info Desk
#19
Join Date: Mar 2003
Location: IAD
Programs: United MP
Posts: 7,822
My worst experience was getting carried up the stairs (more like a ladder) at AAL. (and down at the CPH domestic terminal) I was saved from falling by the strong man holding the top of the chair I was in. A woman, who was obviously not as strong, was on the bottom. She slipped l and nearly fell on the steps all the esy to the ground Since I was tightly strapped into a chair, I would have been seriously injured, or killed. We were almost at the top of the steps of the MD-8x aircraft. I vowed never again. I stick to big airports with jetbridges. I get in touch with airlines if there is a chance they might have to carry me. If they say they might, I fly elsewhere and drive, or take the train / bus. Despite my username, I do use a wheelchair for mobility.
#20
Original Poster
Join Date: Feb 2015
Programs: RapidRewards
Posts: 7
Correct... Stockholm to Berlin on Norweigian. I guess I'm vain because I would like to avoid requesting special assistance if possible. More importantly, I don't want to cause a delay in boarding and inconvenience FAs and other PAX.
#21
Join Date: Sep 2010
Programs: priority club
Posts: 74
Even if boarding is via ramp/bridge you are much better walking on in pre-boarding, with assistance to help, than to compete in the stampede of general boarding
Last edited by mymsman; Mar 12, 2020 at 6:43 am