I just watched a wheelchair user board the flight I'm sitting on. Middle seat.
Aide: "does the chair arm fold up?"
Flight attendant: "not in the back 2 rows"
I can't speak on that person's behalf, I only know how I'd feel in a similar situation.
If booking were more specific about needs, they could have had a seat with a folding arm that would have made transferring so much easier for that passenger. Often, seat booking only knows the distinction it needs to charge more - accessibility information isn't considered 'useful' up front.
Similar to hotels, who won't tell you if you have an accessible room until you get there. People with access needs *must* know they can be accommodated. At time of arrival is too late.
Yes it would be a lot of admin and overhead. Yes that cost is worth it.
@loops Also for people with dietary restrictions, why the hell can't they ask you at the time of buying for ticket and have to wait until you contact client service.
@pitbuster best part of that is that for any dietary needs not on their list, the response ranges from "*shrug* you're gonna be luck or hungry" to "we'll write it down and see if it happens.
This is exactly how we treat many #accessibility #accomodations. It's #NotGoodEnough.