Current Issues In Handicapped Passenger Transportation

Airports specialize in passenger transportation, from all manner of ground transportation to every type of air transit. With the high volume of travelers going in and out of airports worldwide around the clock, there are bound to be some situations. Generally speaking, the earlier you arrive at the airport, the sooner you will encounter situations that can prevent your travel from going smoothly, allowing you to address those issues before they interfere with your boarding plans.

Passengers can exercise some control by planning ahead, contacting all involved authorities in advance so that they can give you the information you need. Different airports may have variations in their wheelchair policies, particularly since the enactment of increased security measures in the years since the 9/11 attacks. Find out exactly what you can expect from security before you arrive at the airport.

If you don't have a personal wheelchair to use at the airport but require one upon arrival due to the large walking distance required to get to your terminal, it's a good idea to know beforehand who is responsible for wheelchair services. Some airports only provide wheelchair services to the point of check-in, beyond which it becomes the airline's responsibility. Some airlines will even charge disabled passengers for wheelchair rental in an effort to reduce costs, a practice that many people find discriminatory. Ryanair, a U.K.-based airline, is currently being sued over that very issue, as is the airport that didn't offer grounds-wide wheelchair service.

Part of the issue would be addressed if airports didn't have to worry about replacement costs for damaged and stolen wheelchairs. Ryanair charged 18 GBP to use a wheelchair in order to keep their costs in check, leading to a lawsuit that will cost them (and Stansted Airport) far more money when all is said and done. How much money could they have saved if they had invested in a wheelchair system that addresses their substantial replacement costs?

Other airports have addressed the issue by making an initial investment in a new type of passenger transportation system. Rather than utilizing standard wheelchairs, which are designed for individual use in a non-institutional setting, they've invested in new wheelchair systems which feature a theft-resistant, easily-distinguishable design. These have several benefits that can help airline and airport administrators keep costs down.

Much like cart corrals at the grocery store, these new systems can be nested inside space-saving storage racks, keeping them easy to find. They also feature a much sturdier steel construction than the typical wheelchair (most of which are framed in chrome), ensuring that they last longer even through heavy daily use. They also require an attendant to use, making theft far more difficult. Other anti-theft precautions include a non-foldable and an easily-identifiable design - they look quite a bit different from the typical wheelchair, and can even be purchased with colored frames and seating. The new systems have prevented a great deal of wheelchair replacement, helping keep costs lower for passengers.

Remember that the next time you travel, plan ahead for every detail. Not being hit with unpleasant surprises can help make your experience with an airport or airline's wheelchair services a pleasant one.