– Wheelchair unavailability
– Elderly collapse and death at Mumbai airport.
Title: Tragic Incident at Mumbai Airport: 80-Year-Old Collapses and Dies Due to Wheelchair Shortage
Date: [Insert Date]
In a heartbreaking turn of events, an 80-year-old man, who had just arrived on an Air India flight from New York with his wife, tragically lost his life at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport on Monday.
The elderly gentleman collapsed after being forced to walk approximately 1.5 km from the plane to the immigration counter due to a shortage of available wheelchairs. This shocking development has raised concerns about the accessibility and assistance provided to passengers with mobility issues.
According to reports, the couple had pre-booked wheelchairs for their arrival at the airport, but only the wife received one. As they approached the immigration counter, the husband, unfortunately, suffered a heart attack and collapsed. Despite immediate medical attention, he could not be saved.
The deceased, an Indian-origin US passport holder, was travelling in economy class on Air India flight AI-116. It is a devastating loss for his family and loved ones, who are undoubtedly mourning the sudden demise of their beloved.
The shortage of wheelchairs at the airport has come into question, as only one wheelchair assistant was available for the couple. The wife, understandably, took the wheelchair, while her husband opted to walk alongside. The arduous journey of approximately 1.5 km proved to be fatal, leading to the unfortunate heart attack that claimed his life.
Air India, in response to this tragedy, has expressed their deep regret and stated that they had requested the passenger to wait until a wheelchair became available. However, he chose to walk alongside his spouse. The airline has assured that they were in constant touch with the family, extending any necessary assistance during this difficult time.
An airport source revealed that there were 32 wheelchair passengers on the same flight, but only 15 wheelchairs were provided with accompanying staff on the ground. This shortage highlights the need for improved accessibility and support for passengers with mobility issues.
It is disheartening to witness such incidents, as aged couples often feel more comfortable staying together during their journey from the aircraft to the airport terminal. They rely on each other for support, especially those with mobility issues or hearing impairments.
This unfortunate incident also raises concerns about the overall efficiency and coordination between airport staff and airlines in catering to the needs of passengers with disabilities. It is crucial for airports to ensure that appropriate resources are allocated to accommodate such individuals and guarantee their safety and well-being.
In early February of this year, a similar incident occurred at Kolkata airport, where a wheelchair-bound woman was asked to stand up during security clearance. These incidents point to a lack of empathy and understanding on the part of certain airport staff, highlighting the need for increased awareness and sensitivity training.
In conclusion, the sudden demise of the 80-year-old man at Mumbai airport is a tragic reminder of the importance of providing adequate assistance and accessibility to passengers with mobility issues. It is essential for authorities and airlines to address these concerns and take necessary measures to prevent such heartbreaking incidents in the future. Our deepest condolences go out to the grieving family as they navigate through this difficult time..
1. Mumbai airport tragic incident elderly passenger collapse
2. Unfortunate demise of wheelchair-unavailable passenger at Mumbai airport.
