Atlanta, September 24, 2024 – Airports Council International (ACI) World has introduced the Airports and Accessible Travel: A Practical Guide, a vital resource aimed at improving accessible travel for all passengers.
The guide was launched during the Airports Service Quality (ASQ) Forum at the ACI Customer Experience Global Summit, the premier global event focused on airport customer and employee experiences.
Developed by the ACI World Facilitation and Services Standing Committee in collaboration with leading accessibility advocacy groups, ACI training partners, regional bodies, and Customer Centric Consulting, this publication was supported financially by InterVISTAS Consulting and Amadeus.
Building upon the ACI World Airports and Persons with Disabilities Handbook, the guide offers updated best practices for incorporating accessibility into both new and existing airport facilities. It features practical recommendations, case studies, and strategies for creating barrier-free environments and accessible services for passengers with both visible and non-visible disabilities, alongside staff training initiatives.
Justin Erbacci, ACI World Director General, stated, “Approximately 1.3 billion people, or one in six globally, experience some form of disability (WHO). ACI World is committed to helping our member airports create barrier-free environments to ensure equal access and exceptional travel experiences for all guests, regardless of their abilities. We are dedicated to advocating for and developing resources, such as this new guide, to support our members in fostering a more inclusive air transport system.”
The launch of the guide coincides with the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) Council’s Year of Facilitation, which aims to raise global awareness and highlight the significance of facilitation within the aviation sector.
To further assist its global members, ACI has also established the Accessibility Enhancement Accreditation (AEA) program. This initiative provides airports with a framework for continuous improvement in accessibility for passengers with disabilities. The program enables airports to assess, evaluate, and enhance their accessibility practices through tailored expert advice and peer learning opportunities. It remains the only international assessment and accreditation program focused exclusively on airport accessibility.
The first certificate ceremony for the AEA program took place during the ASQ Forum, marking its second anniversary. To date, over 50 airports have participated in the initiative, reflecting their commitment to building a more accessible and inclusive air transport system.
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