Regarding the Dec. 22 Kyodo article: "JAL wheelchair doesn't trip up metal detectors": As I read this news, I was surprised at the idea of wheelchairs made of bamboo. I've never seen these wheelchairs before, but I feel that Japan Airline Corp.'s decision to lend them to those who now use metallic wheelchairs is a very good idea.
When I pass through airport security now, the alarms ring and the women who checked me give me a mean look. I feel anxiety even though I'm not carrying any metal. I can understand their complaints, and this service should relieve them.
The service is scheduled to start from January at just two airports (Haneda and Oita). I hope this service spreads nationwide soon, although each wheelchair costs some ¥600,000 (financed partially by celebrity donations).