Q: I fell on the sidewalk recently, and although nothing was broken, my bandaged knee makes walking and standing a bit difficult. For the next two months, I’ll be flying in and out of major cities, and may have problems getting around inside airports. Some flights will be on a no-assigned seat airline. How do I get permission to go through security  without lining up and then get aboard early?

A: First, get a note from your doctor on his/her official stationery. It should explain your medical problem and ask for priority in airport security and when boarding. Keep a copy on your person and another in your suitcase. Show the letter at the check-in desk, and you’ll be given an early boarding pass. Go to the seating area where early boarders are required to wait. When the entrance door is opened, show the pass and you’ll be allowed to go aboard early.

If you require a wheelchair, call the airline before you go to the airport, and there should be an employee and chair waiting for you at the entrance. However, note that on some airlines, if you’re on a wheelchair, you can’t take any bags, including carry-ons on the wheelchair with you. They must be checked.