Hello, we're traveling with an elderly relative and wondering whether there's a way to expedite/skip the lines on arrival at passport control/customs. We're arriving in mid-August and are not Schengen residents. Do the VIP services, like Royal, offer that? Thank you!
Posted by
Chicago
3720 posts
If you use the wheelchair service offered by your airline, that will get you through quicker.
Posted by
OP
4 posts
Thought about that, but our 90yo is a little prickly about needing a wheelchair! Believe it or not. Pride ...
Posted by
San Francisco Bay Area (USA)
16787 posts
There is no preferential treatment based on age alone. If you have mobility problems (regardless of age), make arrangement with the airline (at the time of booking or at least 48 hours prior to travel), which will arrange a wheelchair service provided by ADR (the company managing the FCO airport) and put you through an expedited queue where the person can comfortably sit down on the wheelchair. I think they allow one (or maybe two) accompanying person in the party to go through with the person with mobility issues.
There are also VIP services for a fee:
Posted by
OP
4 posts
Thank you for the reply.
Do you know whether the VIP services offer expedited passage through the arrival procedures, like passport control?
Thank you.
Posted by
Hobart Tasmania
465 posts
@ Wchmch
Perhaps you could elaborate on your elderly relatives claim to VIP status? Eg Queen of Denmark.
Regards Ron
Posted by
Gettysburg PA
8289 posts
Do you know whether the VIP services offer expedited passage through
the arrival procedures, like passport control?
Each of the services Roberto linked to explain what they can do for you on their websites. Have you read thru them? Or email them with your questions?
I don't see any mention of expedited passport control service. Pretty sure only the airport wheelchair services can give you that.
Honestly- using the wheelchair is your best and least expensive option (free).
I found myself with mobility issues over the past year- I just turned 70 and have NO problem requesting wheelchair service, It has been a godsend. Just used it to and from Nice/PHL and they do zip you right thru security and passport control. Worth the few minutes of ill placed embarrassment.
If your relative has difficulty walking long distances even standing for any length of time you’ll need to consider how she will do on the rest of your trip. Cobblestones are killer.
Lots of walking is usually the norm
Posted by
OP
4 posts
Many thanks to all for the replies.
Specifically:
Have contacted the VIP services.
Are not traveling with the lovely Queen of Denmark. Any VIP status would have to be purchased.
A wheelchair seems by far the best solution, and we'll explore that.
Very kind of you to take the time to help.