thanks again gingernut.
i suspect you are right..he only flies with me nowadays and so i have no worry about that.
the question might arise whether it is worth at his age clearing the ducts.
i knew a guy years ago who got it done but he was much younger...and i thought i got the impression it was not too pleasant but i have googled it and it does not seem too bad but then noadays minor procedures ( if thats how one would describe it ) have been made so much easier in day hospitals.
anyone any info on the procedure ..??from a comfort / discomfort point of view.. for an 85 year old..??