What is the safest way to get a 82-year-old on an airplane?

Nancy is right on with the wheel chair advice!

My friend who had knee replacement surgery had to travel via airlines a few thousand miles away to her daughter's home.

Requested a wheel chair & was treated ike a celebrity on the round trip flights!.

Be sure to put her in a wheelchair while at the airport, regardless of whether or not she can walk. They take much better care of those in wheelchairs, and I do believe you board before anyone else too.