[Browngirl]

Gentlemen,
Thank you for your responses. Let me address each of the issues you have presented.
PHXflyer:
1. I did not make a “generic” wheelchair request. When I called the airline three days after booking the ticket, I was quite clear that we needed assistance all the way to our seats – meaning down the jetway. The representative with whom I spoke said she had noted the reservation accordingly.
There is little doubt that that is exactly how it occurred, since otherwise one would have to believe Delta accidentally provided wheelchair access all the way without prompting (ie: additional request) to/from our seats in Dallas, in Atlanta, in Miami, then in Miami again on the way home, but not in Atlanta on our inbound leg, but then did so again in Dallas. That sequence of events says I made the correct request and Atlanta didn’t handle the request correctly.

2. I don’t have a problem with being the last to deplane. If you will reread my post, my point was that everyone should be able to do so in a timely manner.

3. If I might offer feedback, your “airline sympathizer” tag is superfluous, as the tone of your comments is sufficient to identify your perspective. Perhaps in your position you have had to deal with liars, cheats, thieves, and con men. I feel sorry for you if this is the case, and understand that in such circumstances it would be natural to develop a jaded outlook and an inherent distrust of people. But I like to think that those of that ilk are the minority, not the majority.
I would respectfully remind you that a customer is not always right - but not always wrong, either. Further, not everyone is out to defraud/profit unjustly/take advantage of a company or situation. Sometimes a complaint can be diffused simply by listening to a person in a respectful manner, and responding to what is really being said – the frustration, the anger, the disappointment, whatever. To do otherwise puts you in an adversarial position with the person with whom you are dealing, and not only accomplishes little, it only worsens the situation. This thread is a perfect example. I feel I stated my problem in a calm, straightforward, factual manner in my original posting. You have no idea who I am nor anything about me. Yet your comments to me were: “Next time buy a more sturdy bag” and “I think your issue is more with the manufacturer of the bag than with the flight attendant or airline. My advice is take it back to Wal~Mart.”. Those are inherently offensive, and effective as a tactic only if you wish to escalate hostilities. There is wisdom in the enduring adage that you can catch more flies with honey than vinegar.

Judge:
My aunt’s name indeed appeared on the paperwork of staffers meeting us at the jetway to take us to the terminal, and they confirmed that she was the right passenger before taking her. They did not board the plane, we met them at the jetway, which was fine. My aunt could walk the short distance between our seat and the door with my assistance. I recall only one segment where there was a second person on board needing a wheelchair.


Thanks everyone ~