01-28-2024
11:08 AM
01-28-2024
11:08 AM
I am a 72 year old single man. At first blush I look much younger and often walk and act younger, and you would never know I have any challenges at all. That said, I have severe Lyme disease and often become slightly dementia like. A bit disoriented and sometimes a bit dizzy or don't quite get my footing right so I have to be very careful taking my steps, watching for obstacles, elevation changes on the jetway, etc. It may not look like it but I have to choose my footing carefully. I've NEVER asked to be preboarded. I do, however, find it helpful to get boarded in the A1-15 especially when having a tight connection as it gives me a lot more time to find the next gate. I also NEED an aisle seat as I need to get up to often for the toilet. I usually pay the extra $50-75 bucks for the upgrade at the gate. But sometimes that isn't available. I believe there is a Federal law that requires the airlines to be able to declare a need and get to preboard.
Section 382.93, As a carrier you must offer preboarding to passengers with a disability who self-identify at the gate as needing additional time or assistance to board, stow accessibility equipment, or be seated.
So, if that is so, and I have that right, please don't assume I am a scammer, even though I agree there are many. I have never tried to exercise that rule. I'd actually find it embarrassing or demeaning to stand in the preboard line amongst wheelchairs and obviously disabled people when my condition is comparatively minor. I would prefer to just be able to get into the A1-15 section. But as there seems to be no clear policy it seems every boarding is a crapshoot. Will the Earlybird get me a decent spot? Will there be Business Class upgrade at the gate. Do I have the money for the upgrade.? It shouldn't have to be like this. Personally, I think any Senior Citizen should be afforded the convenience of early boarding, at LEAST the A1-15. That's my humble opinion. Thanks for listening. Oh, BTW, I recently flew JetBlue out of necessity. I never had before. I ended up the D boarding, which I didn't even realize. I went to the gate and asked if there was any upgrade boarding available. The nice attendant asked for my ID, and handed me back an A boarding. I asked how much I owe, and she said it was no charge. She didn't say why she did that, but I appreciated it. It really should be that simple and stress free.
... View more
