I find that getting to a destination and around is most of the battle, and it proved quite true in my recent trip to France. The flight from Washington DC/Dulles was a non-stop red eye on Delta partner AirFrance. We were dropped off at the airport by family and did not need to manage parking and getting into ticketing.
I always include a request for assistance in my reservation and confirm with the ticketing/baggage agent upon arrival at the airport for assistance. The request inevitably gets lost in the shuffle. I received speedy wheelchair assistance from baggage through security to my gate, which is immensely helpful. Even though I carry a disability card, I have found that you can request wheelchair assistance without one. I have seen a number of people hobbling through airports on crutches with carry-on bags who could really use assistance getting to their gate and know others would benefit from requesting assistance too. Ask for help, if you need it! Perks of wheelchair assistance to the gate are: not walking, zipping through the security line or at least not standing while waiting, having a seat at the gate even if the others are full, and being able to load the plane with an early group.
I confirmed wheelchair assistance at the gate with the AirFrance team. The airport website says a representative will meet passengers who have requested assistance or you can call for help. The flight was uneventful, but there was no one to meet us as we exited the plane around 8 am. Nor at the end of the gatebridge. Nor at the end of the very, very long hall. No staff, no counters, no phones to use, nothing. We practically walked to the Eiffel Tower, er immigration and baggage claim, before we saw any one who worked at the Paris airport. I paused to rest and took a picture of the welcome sign.
The staff member giving directions for which lane individuals should sort into for immigration took pity on me and let me go in a short lane for EU only. I was able to prop my leg on our carry-on luggage to await my passport review. The long airport walk and standing were the beginning of my issues. Aisles and walkways appeared wide and easily maneuverable for those with assistive devices. However, we did land early in the morning, and the space may be more difficult at busier times of day.
We were able to easily find a taxi, which drove us directly to our hotel. Very friendly and spacious. Note: airport taxis and many other taxis in France do not accept credit card but only take cash.
