Wheelchair at the Airport - How much do you tip?

[jamesglewisf]

Question:
I am handicapped, and need a wheelchair to get me to airport gates. How much should I tip the person who wheels me there, or who wheels me back from the gate to the luggage carousel and helps me collect my luggage? Sometimes the distances are quite lengthy, and sometimes involve shuttles, airport subways, etc., depending on the airport. I am never sure how much to tip these people, but usually give them $10. Am I being cheap?
Another:
how much do you tip a porter at the airport, who transports you in a wheelchair between gates?

or transports you in a golf cart between gates?

[jamesglewisf]

My mother needs wheelchair assistance at the airport, so here is my answer:

As always, tipping is at your discretion. If you want to tip, here are the general guidelines: If they are just pushing you down the ramp from the gate to the plane (or in reverse), then nothing. If it is from the ticket counter to the gate/plane or from the gate/plane to the luggage carousel, then $5 is appropriate. Tip more if they help you with your luggage ($1-2 per bag) or if they help you to your car. If they are pushing you from one terminal to another (long distances), then $10-20 would be appropriate plus extra for luggage. Tip less if they are unpleasant or rude.

[Alec]

I recommend against tipping wheelchairs at the airport. It is too easy to fall out and get hurt. It seems like the liability issues would be astronomical.

[theyeti]

Depends on the percentage, Alec. A 15-20 degree tilt might be okay :D For once, tipping TOO MUCH instead of not enough could result in some serious fallout with the owner!!

[vtown187]

Red Caps and Poters can charge you for theses services as alot of them are not payed an hourly wage but have to pay to work at the airport. I you do not tip or if you don't tip enough, they will tell you of the minimum charge for helping you.