AMERICAN AIRLINES UPDATE -- THE GOOD NEWS

AMERICAN AIRLINES RESPONDS TO 

FLIGHT CREW THAT DAMAGED 

HEIDI JOHNSON-WRIGHT'S WHEELCHAIR

A Disability Services specialist from American Airlines has been in contact with us to address the situation when a flight crew refused to allow Heidi's wheelchair aboard, resulting in damages from being stored below.

The American Airlines person was very kind, accommodating and apologetic.

She said crews would be trained better to accommodate people who travel by wheelchair.

Here's the back story on what happened:

Although the chair collapses down and the wheels and footrests come off for stowage, the crew didn't want to rearrange its closet to accommodate the wheelchair.

When we arrived in Mexico City on Christmas Day 2011, the wheelchair was damaged.

The only reason Heidi is smiling above at Parque Mexico is that the outstanding crew at the St. Regis Hotel Mexico City patched up her chair.

For the full story, read our blog entries from December 31, 2011 through January 9, 2012.

Bottom line, American will try harder next time.

Their point person for disabled passengers has promised.

Committing to serve all guests, including those who travel by wheelchair, is the best Valentine's gift our favorite air carrier could give us.

THIS STORY CONTINUES TOMORROW, FEBRUARY 15