My 88-year-old dad is on crutches after a knee op and wants a short break in the sun but is anxious about negotiating airports with the long walks involved. Any tips?
- Judith Hooley
Airports and airlines are obliged under European law to provide less mobile passengers with the assistance they may require in order to ensure a comfortable trip.
The primary contact is with the airline, which is responsible for providing care. It should be able to arrange special assistance from check-in to departure gate, with a wheelchair if required. These services are provided to passengers free of charge.
The crucial first step is to tell your airline about your father’s state of health and explain what assistance he may need. You must do this at least 48 hours before departure — but of course it makes sense to get in touch when the booking is originally made.
Your father should arrive in good time for all the formalities: airlines say at least two hours before departure. The airline will also want to know whether your father is self-reliant — covering concerns such as whether he needs help using the toilet, or in the event of an emergency on board, he would be able to look after himself. The airline will take a view on whether he would need the help of an able-bodied companion.
In terms of a good short break, the obvious destination is the Canaries. A four-hour flight from the UK would transport your father to a relaxed, beautiful and warm location, which is also well equipped for holidaymakers who are a touch frail. If you book the whole trip though a package holiday company such as Thomson or Thomas Cook, they should be able to offer seamless care during the journey.
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