Heathrow Airport chief executive John Holland-Kaye has accused passengers of pretending to have disabilities in order to get through security’s “fast track”.
According to the airport manager, the phenomenon contributes to the travel chaos that is ravaging Europe The Independent.
Trending on TikTok
In an interview on Tuesday morning, the airport manager claims that travel tips videos on the social media platform TikTok have sparked a trend in which able-bodied travelers claim they need wheelchair assistance at the airport.
– We now have as many people working in the team for passengers who need support as we had before the pandemic, says Holland-Kaye.
– We have simply seen that the demand for assistance has increased suspiciously much, he adds.
Goes beyond the wheelchair users
Last week, 20 wheelchair users reportedly had to wait so long for the airport staff to wheel them to the street, that several flights were delayed.
– It is a very immoral trick to use. The service is vital for the people who need help, emphasizes Holland-Kaye.
He also points out that many people with disabilities ask for assistance too late. He now encourages passengers to notify their needs well in advance of their journey.
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