ACI World launches new guide to enhance accessible travel

Airports Council International (ACI) World has announced that it has introduced the “Airports and Accessible Travel: A Practical Guide” aimed at improving travel accessibility for all passengers. The launch occurred at the Airports Service Quality (ASQ) Forum, part of the ACI Customer Experience Global Summit, which focuses on enhancing customer and employee experiences in airports worldwide.

The new guide has been developed by the ACI World Facilitation and Services Standing Committee in collaboration with various accessibility advocacy groups, ACI training partners, ACI Regions, ACI airport members and Customer Centric Consulting. The initiative received financial support from InterVISTAS Consulting and Amadeus.

Building upon the existing ACI World Airports and Persons with Disabilities Handbook, this expanded guidance offers updated best practices for integrating accessibility into both new and existing airport facilities. It includes practical recommendations, case studies and strategies for creating barrier-free designs and accessible services for passengers with both visible and non-visible disabilities, with an emphasis on staff training.

ACI World Director General Justin Erbacci said: “Approximately 1.3 billion people, or one in six globally, experience some form of disability (WHO). ACI World is dedicated to assisting our member airports in creating barrier-free environments, ensuring equal access and exceptional travel experiences for all airport guests, regardless of ability.”

The launch of this guide coincides with the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) Year of Facilitation, which aims to raise global awareness about the significance of facilitation in the aviation sector.

Additionally, ACI has established the Accessibility Enhancement Accreditation (AEA) programme, designed to provide a continuous improvement framework for airports concerning accessibility for passengers with disabilities. The programme helps airports measure and enhance their accessibility management and culture through tailored advice and collaborative learning opportunities. It is recognised as the only international assessment and accreditation programme focused on airport accessibility for disabled passengers.

The first certificate ceremony for the AEA programme had been held during the ASQ Forum, commemorating its second anniversary. More than 50 airports have already joined the initiative, demonstrating their commitment to fostering a more inclusive and accessible air transport system.