Global Aviation Bodies Unite to Improve Accessible Air Travel for 1.3 Billion People with Disabilities
The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), Airports Council International (ACI), and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) are set to host the first-ever Symposium on Accessibility in International Civil Aviation, a landmark move towards inclusive air travel for the disabled.
Scheduled to take place from 2 to 3 December 2024 at ICAO Headquarters in Montréal, this event will bring together government representatives, industry leaders, and advocacy groups to address persistent barriers in air travel for persons with disabilities and reduced mobility.
Under the theme, “Inclusive and Universally Accessible Air Transport for Persons with Disabilities and Reduced Mobility,” the symposium aims to foster discussions and strategies to create a more universally accessible air transport system.
Topics will range from international frameworks for accessibility, architectural and technological barriers, to personal accounts from passengers with disabilities.
The symposium will further address global collaboration to establish mutual standards, the role of design and technology in enhancing accessibility, and improving overall mobility within air transport.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 1.3 billion individuals globally live with some form of disability – around 16% of the world’s population.
As populations age, this percentage is expected to increase, underscoring the need for a global framework on accessible travel that goes beyond individual national regulations.
In a joint statement, ICAO’s Secretary General, Juan Carlos Salazar said: “Achieving universally coordinated and accessible air transport is only possible through close collaboration across the aviation sector.
“ICAO is intensifying cooperation with IATA and ACI on this priority, demonstrating how governments and operators can jointly address current barriers to air travel.”
Willie Walsh, Director-General of IATA, added, “Airlines are dedicated to providing safe, reliable, and dignified travel for every passenger, including those with disabilities. Realising this goal requires airlines, airports, and the disability community to collaborate closely.
‘National regulatory frameworks must also support a seamless travel experience, regardless of where a journey starts or ends. We hope this symposium will be a significant step toward that goal.”
Justin Erbacci, ACI World’s Director General, highlighted the importance of barrier-free airports, noting, “ACI is committed to helping our member airports foster environments that allow equal access and a remarkable travel experience for all guests.
“This symposium will enable aviation stakeholders to engage in meaningful dialogue and outline actionable steps towards a more accessible air transport system.”
The event is being organised as part of the 2024 ICAO Year of Facilitation and is anticipated to generate new insights and tools for enhancing the air travel experience of persons with disabilities.
Moreover, the symposium will inform deliberations at ICAO’s upcoming 42nd Assembly in 2025, where accessibility will be a key agenda item.
Open to aviation stakeholders, including border control authorities, airport and aircraft operators, and advocacy groups from all Member States, the symposium will also feature an exhibition of practical accessibility solutions.
For further details and to register, interested parties can visit www.icao.int/Meetings/Accessibility2024.
