A few points to note:
If a medical cleareance form is filed and inability to sit upright for takeoff and landing is declared this would lead to travel being declined on QF and most other carriers (unless on a stretcher). If a form was not filed and such a passenger presented to check in or at the gate stating they can not sit upright then they would be offloaded if the correct procedures were followed.
In cases of advanced malignancy medical clearance should always be sought from the carrier concerned, rather than just a request for wheelchair assistance. This system allows the treating doctor of the passenger to support travel and the airline doctors to approve or decline based on information from the treating doctor. When this procedure is followed things run smoothly, the operating crew and check in staff are aware the passenger is medically cleared and happy to offer assistance.
Medical clearance of passengers requires both disclosure from the passenger and support from the treating doctor. All too often if one or both of these is not forthcoming then problems inevitably arise and complaints occur - or aircraft get diverted.
Qantas medical clearance guidelines and travel clearance forms are available on the website and are detailed, giving a good outline of what is acceptable for travel And what requIres clearance.
I guess my point is that there is a difference between a wheelchair request and medical clearance with the latter providing more assistance and safety checks.
Glad things worked out in the end.
