Passengers at Coimbatore International Airport have alleged that some staff members are demanding hefty “tips” for providing free wheelchair assistance services. Travellers have urged authorities to intervene and issue clear instructions to personnel handling the facility.
Coimbatore: Coimbatore: Passengers at Coimbatore International Airport have raised concerns over alleged collection of money by certain staff members for wheelchair assistance services meant for senior citizens, differently-abled persons and passengers with medical conditions, despite the facility being officially provided free of cost by airlines.
The airport handles an average of 31 to 32 flights daily and is currently witnessing increased passenger movement due to the summer holiday season, with over 10,000 travellers using the facility every day.
Airlines operating from the airport offer complimentary wheelchair assistance to elderly passengers, persons with disabilities and those requiring medical support. However, several passengers alleged that some staff members insist on receiving specific amounts as “tips” while assisting travellers.
Passengers stated that while many people voluntarily offer gratuity out of appreciation, demanding money from passengers — especially those unaware that the service is free — is inappropriate and unacceptable. Some travellers alleged that staff members indirectly suggest payments of up to Rs.500 for the assistance provided.
Passengers have also urged airport and airline authorities to sensitise staff and issue strict instructions to ensure such practices are not repeated.
Responding to the allegations, airline officials clarified that wheelchair assistance is a completely free service and that compelling passengers to pay is against norms. They further stated that passengers can immediately report such incidents to the respective airline authorities at the airport, following which appropriate action would be taken.
The airport handles an average of 31 to 32 flights daily and is currently witnessing increased passenger movement due to the summer holiday season, with over 10,000 travellers using the facility every day.
Airlines operating from the airport offer complimentary wheelchair assistance to elderly passengers, persons with disabilities and those requiring medical support. However, several passengers alleged that some staff members insist on receiving specific amounts as “tips” while assisting travellers.
Passengers stated that while many people voluntarily offer gratuity out of appreciation, demanding money from passengers — especially those unaware that the service is free — is inappropriate and unacceptable. Some travellers alleged that staff members indirectly suggest payments of up to Rs.500 for the assistance provided.
Passengers have also urged airport and airline authorities to sensitise staff and issue strict instructions to ensure such practices are not repeated.
Responding to the allegations, airline officials clarified that wheelchair assistance is a completely free service and that compelling passengers to pay is against norms. They further stated that passengers can immediately report such incidents to the respective airline authorities at the airport, following which appropriate action would be taken.