Lani No,no, no, tell Ken to do himself and the aide a favor. There's space to check in any airlines' online (or you can call) to ask for a ride from the door to the gate and vicsa versa - or from the door of the plane to the luggage carousel/front door - for just a tip like what you give a server at a restaurant. You probably have seen people with some roller wheelchair when you leave the plane. They're waiting for someone who wants it easy. There's no fussing or sweat or taking of breaks. They take care of any carryon or pull it off the carousel. I know PHX airlines have the service; I've used it there. I've never since I have the an issue then last 3-4 years been with an airline that doesn't provide the service. Never have found any airport/airline no matter how small that doesn't accommodate.
Worst romp I ever/never would have taken was a connection in Germany . . .Connection flight from 1 terminal to another is (I swear to God) 1 1/2 miles. I asked. They had lots of stairs down, then to get up to the door they used a supply loading platform, safely strapped in wheelchair, elevators up and down on both ends. Oh yeah, and then there was an under-the-runways tunnel between the two terminals. Without help I'd still be trekking along in Germany. Oh yeah, and I just remembered Tony - he has a walking stick and better legs (only because he had both hip and knee replacements). He protested at start with his male ego at work that he didn't need the chair. Yeah Sure! Aide finally convinced him - he would never have made it. Zip, zip, zip One younger lady, both of us on a chair, both delivered to that second plane.
Try it, you'll like it. I just remembered - have to add: There is minimal line waiting. Wheelchair people get us special consideration (potty stops, water fountain, TSA, elevators, seating in gate area, special loading, aisle seats). Just flag your record.
P
