Airports in Europe are making strides in supporting passengers with non-visible disabilities, with the Airport Council International (ACI) Europe introducing new international guidance for airports. According to Eurostat, the EU’s statistical office, 1 in 4 adults in the EU faces some form of disability, and nearly 80% of these are non-visible. ACI Europe’s new tool, “Assisting Passengers with Non-Visible Disabilities,” aims to help airports understand and address the various non-visible disabilities and the travel barriers they may present.
The guidance facilitates handling sensitive passenger information to meet their needs and expectations, ensuring the best care during their journey. It also emphasizes the importance of ensuring accessibility for all passengers, aligning with the fundamental principles of EU law: free movement, freedom of choice, and non-discrimination.
The guidance was produced by ACI Europe’s partner, the Facilitation and Customer Services Committee, and contains comprehensive information on case studies from ACI Europe members and partner organizations. Airports and institutions that have contributed are Aena, Athens International Airport, Dublin Airport, London Gatwick Airport, ENAC, and Manchester Airport.
Representative organizations of passengers with disabilities have also asked the EU Commission to enhance air travel regulations, showing the growing importance of accessibility and inclusivity in the travel industry. A survey by the International Air Transportation Association (IATA) revealed that 80% of passengers needing special assistance are satisfied with air travel accessibility improvements.
Riga Airport of Latvia has also made strides in this area, launching a special passenger security checkpoint for families with children up to seven years. In addition to this category, “Family of Honor” cardholders will also be granted such access. The Latvian authorities issue this card for families with many children or those with children with disabilities.
Overall, the new guidance from ACI Europe is a positive step forward in ensuring that all passengers, including those with non-visible disabilities, can enjoy air travel in a more inclusive and accessible manner.
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