Improving Accessibility in Airports

09.11.23

In today's world, accessibility has transcended from a convenience to an ethical and legal necessity across various industries. Accessibility is particularly crucial in transportation hubs like airports. Whether it's accommodating individuals with specific airline travel needs, ensuring smooth flight travel experiences for passengers with disabilities, or providing covered pedestrian walkways within airport premises, accessibility directly impacts passenger satisfaction and operational efficiency.

For airport owners and other decision-makers, recognizing the vital role of accessibility is more than a matter of compliance — it's a strategic investment in their reputation and success. By addressing the unique requirements of passengers with diverse needs, airports demonstrate their capability as leaders in the travel industry.

This blog explores accessible air travel, showcasing the indispensable role of inclusive design and innovative solutions in creating a seamless travel experience for all passengers, including those with disabilities.

1. Wheelchair Access

One of the first areas to focus on when improving accessibility in airports is wheelchair access. Ensuring wheelchair accessibility within airports is a regulatory requirement and an ethical commitment that resonates with the core principles of inclusivity. By providing seamless wheelchair access, airports may elevate the travel experience, foster positive perceptions, and set higher industry standards.

Enhancing wheelchair access involves strategic considerations. Placing wheelchairs at crucial junctures where employees can access them streamlines assistance for passengers with limited mobility. This distribution optimizes convenience and minimizes potential stressors, offering immediate support where needed.

Furthermore, the transition toward fully autonomous wheelchair options offers an innovative path forward. Equipped with intelligent navigation systems, these self-operating wheelchairs enable independent movement through airport walkways and other sections. This advancement may enhance passenger autonomy while reducing dependency on external aid, enhancing the overall travel experience.

Airports can demonstrate their commitment to accessibility by reimagining wheelchair access.

2. Bathroom Facilities

Ensuring the availability of fully accessible bathroom facilities is a pivotal step in the continuous journey toward enhancing accessibility in airports. These facilities cater to a diverse range of passengers, including those with limited mobility or other disabilities. By making fully accessible restrooms widely available, airports send a clear message that every passenger's comfort and ease of travel matter.

The addition of extra accessible restrooms is an essential facet of this endeavor. Placing these facilities strategically throughout the airport ensures passengers can access restrooms when needed. Further, incorporating amenities like adult changing stations reflects an empathetic approach to passengers requiring extra assistance. These stations provide a supportive environment for individuals with disabilities, contributing to a smoother and more comfortable journey.

By prioritizing the availability of fully accessible bathroom facilities and considering the diverse needs of their passengers, airports create an inclusive environment.

3. Passenger Rehearsal Programs

Passenger rehearsal programs are designed to provide passengers with a comprehensive understanding of the entire travel process, from entering the airport to boarding the aircraft. They cater to a diverse range of travelers, including those with sensory needs who may grapple with the challenges and anxieties associated with airline travel.

At their core, passenger rehearsal programs are structured simulations of the travel experience. They allow participants to familiarize themselves with the airport layout, security procedures, check-in processes, and boarding routines. These programs are invaluable tools that bridge the gap between unfamiliarity and comfort — providing passengers with knowledge and assurance.

For individuals with sensory sensitivities or other unique requirements, the stress of airline travel can be overwhelming. Passenger rehearsal programs play a crucial role in mitigating this stress. Participants can build confidence and reduce anxiety by offering a controlled environment to practice and experience each step of the journey. These programs acknowledge that every passenger's travel experience is different and strive to address their specific needs.

Additionally, the significance of these programs extends beyond individual passengers. Airports offering passenger rehearsal programs demonstrate their commitment to inclusivity and well-being. These programs highlight the airport's role as a leader in the travel industry, shaping a future where every traveler can navigate the airport with confidence and ease.

4. Sunflower Lanyard Program

The Sunflower Lanyard Program is designed to address the needs of passengers with hidden disabilities. This program offers a discreet yet effective means of communication between travelers and airport staff. By wearing a sunflower lanyard, passengers signal to airport personnel that they may require additional assistance, understanding, or accommodations throughout their journey.

The essence of the program lies in its simplicity and impact. Passengers who may have hidden disabilities — such as autism, anxiety, or chronic pain — often face unique challenges while navigating the airport environment. These challenges might not be immediately apparent to others, making it essential to provide a mechanism for passengers to express their needs.

Wearing a sunflower lanyard empowers passengers with hidden disabilities to travel confidently, knowing they can signal their requirements to airport staff. The lanyard communicates a universal message of understanding, prompting staff members to offer support while respecting passengers' privacy and dignity.

The Sunflower Lanyard Program aligns with the principle that every passenger's experience is unique, and their needs should be acknowledged and accommodated. Airports implementing this program prioritize accessible airline travel, fostering an environment where all travelers can access the same care and assistance.

5. Braille Information Guides and Clear Audio Announcements

To improve accessibility in airports, airport owners or decision-makers need to implement Braille information guides and clear audio announcements. These initiatives play a vital role in ensuring that blind passengers can navigate the airport environment with confidence and independence — aligning with the principle of inclusivity.

Braille information guides are an essential bridge between blind passengers and the wealth of information within an airport. By providing crucial details in Braille, such as terminal maps, directional signage, and facility instructions, airports extend their commitment to making information accessible to everyone. These guides allow blind travelers to gather information autonomously, which can enhance their overall airport experience.

Equally crucial are clear audio announcements. Audio information, including boarding gate changes, flight updates, and general announcements, is essential for blind travelers to stay informed and make informed decisions throughout their journey. Consistently clear and well-articulated audio announcements ensure blind passengers are on par with their fellow travelers in terms of receiving real-time information.

Implementing Braille information guides and clear audio announcements acknowledges the unique needs of blind passengers and their right to information. Airports that prioritize these initiatives demonstrate leadership in creating an environment that respects and caters to the diverse needs of all travelers.

6. Service Animal Relief Areas

Service animals are indispensable companions for individuals with disabilities, providing crucial support and enhancing their quality of life. These specially trained animals are vital in offering assistance, guidance, and emotional support to their handlers, allowing them to navigate daily life with increased independence and confidence.

In the context of airport accessibility, recognizing the significance of service animals is paramount. These animals are highly trained partners that assist individuals with various disabilities, including visual impairments, mobility limitations, and certain medical conditions. Service animals are trained to guide their handlers, alert them in case of medical emergencies, and mitigate anxiety or panic attacks.

To enhance the travel experience for individuals with disabilities who rely on service animals, airports can take a pivotal step by providing designated service animal relief areas. These areas should be thoughtfully designed spaces where service animals can relieve themselves comfortably and hygienically. By offering conveniently located, clean, and quiet spots, airports acknowledge the essential needs of service animals and their handlers during their journey.

Service animal relief areas contribute to the overall accessibility of airports. These spaces recognize the unique requirements of individuals with disabilities and demonstrate a commitment to fostering a supportive environment. While it might be easy to overlook this aspect of accessibility, the provision of service animal relief areas represents a critical consideration that enhances the travel experience for an often-underrepresented group of passengers.

7. Baggage Assistance

Navigating airports can be demanding for a diverse range of travelers, particularly those with disabilities. Heavy baggage, a common challenge many face, can be a considerable obstacle affecting the travel experience. For passengers with disabilities, this aspect adds complexity and can become overwhelming.

To address these challenges, airports can implement accessible baggage assistance solutions. Prioritizing baggage services for passengers with disabilities is a critical step in this direction. By offering priority baggage handling, airports extend a gesture of support that acknowledges the specific needs of these travelers. This approach may help streamline the journey and minimize potential stressors.

Baggage transportation assistance is another avenue for enhancing accessibility. Airports can offer dedicated staff or services to assist passengers who require help transporting their baggage. This assistance can be especially valuable for those with mobility limitations. By providing trained personnel to aid with baggage transportation, airports ensure all passengers can move through the airport with ease and confidence.

8. Sensory Areas

Sensory areas are purposefully designed spaces within airports that cater to individuals with sensory sensitivities. These areas provide a sanctuary from the bustling environment of the airport, offering a quiet and calming space for emotional and physical regulation. Recognizing the importance of these spaces, airports are increasingly implementing sensory areas to improve accessibility and create an inclusive environment.

Airports can be overwhelming environments, with bright lights, loud announcements, and constant sensory stimuli. For travelers with sensory sensitivities, this sensory overload may trigger anxiety and stress. Quiet sensory rooms are invaluable for providing a respite.

These spaces are deliberately designed to be serene and calming, with soft lighting, comfortable seating, and sensory-friendly activities. They offer a haven where individuals can retreat to regain emotional equilibrium and manage sensory overload. Beyond their immediate benefits, sensory areas also contribute to the overall accessibility of airports. By offering these spaces, airports demonstrate their commitment to inclusivity.

9. Priority Parking

Priority parking centers on providing designated parking spaces that are conveniently located and easily accessible to passengers who require extra assistance. By offering priority parking options, airports demonstrate their commitment to inclusivity and set a higher standard for accommodating diverse passenger needs.

These parking spaces, often situated close to terminal entrances, alleviate the challenges that passengers with disabilities or limited mobility might face when navigating expansive parking lots. This proximity reduces the distance passengers need to travel, making the journey from car to terminal smoother and less strenuous.

To ensure the seamless transition from priority parking to the terminal, airports can implement various accessibility-enhancing measures:

• Shuttles: Shuttles that are equipped to accommodate passengers with mobility aids can provide a comfortable and efficient mode of transportation between the parking area and the terminal.
• Covered parking structures: These structures shield vehicles from the elements while minimizing the weather exposure passengers face while entering or exiting their cars. This aspect is particularly significant for individuals with limited mobility, ensuring they're protected from adverse weather conditions and enhancing their overall comfort.
• Covered walkways: The integration of covered walkways between priority parking areas and the terminal further promotes accessibility. These covered walkways may reduce accident risks by providing a protected path for passengers. By mitigating exposure to potential hazards and ensuring a safe and obstacle-free route, covered walkways may contribute to a more secure and stress-free travel experience.

Contact VPS for Covered Parking and Covered Walkway Structures

In the journey toward improving accessible flight travel, we've explored various innovative strategies that embody the spirit of inclusivity. From sensory areas providing a haven for emotional respite to priority parking that streamlines the travel journey, every facet contributes to a more accommodating and seamless experience for all passengers.

VPS can help airports create parking and walkway spaces that promote greater inclusivity. Much like the careful design and engineering that go into our projects, we are committed to enhancing accessibility for all. With a legacy of excellence, our comprehensive approach to project management, design, and post-project support aligns seamlessly with the ideals of an accessible airport.

Contact VPS for covered parking and walkway structures and pave the way for a future where every traveler — regardless of ability — experiences the freedom of air travel without barriers.