Aviation bodies collaborate on symposium addressing accessibility challenges

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Marie Owens Thomsen Senior Vice President Sustainability & Chief Economist | International Air Transport Association - IATA

By Sky Industry News

Oct 28, 2024

The International Air Transport Association (IATA), the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), and Airports Council International (ACI) are set to jointly host a symposium focusing on accessibility in international civil aviation. This event aims to address various aspects of air travel accessibility, including architectural, technological, and informational barriers.

According to the World Health Organization, over 1.3 billion people live with some form of disability, which accounts for approximately 16% of the global population. As populations age, this percentage is expected to rise. Both governments and industry players have shown a commitment to enhancing accessible air transport for passengers with disabilities. However, significant progress requires a shift towards a cohesive global framework rather than individual jurisdictional regulations.

Juan Carlos Salazar, ICAO’s Secretary General, emphasized the importance of collaboration: “Universally coordinated and accessible air transport can only be achieved through close collaboration along the aviation value chain. ICAO is heightening cooperation with IATA and ACI on this priority because it is only by showing governments and operators how to work together as one that we will successfully tackle existing barriers in air travel.”

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Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General, stated: “Airlines want to ensure safe, reliable, and dignified travel for every passenger, including those with disabilities. To deliver this, airlines, airports and the disability community must work together. On top of this, national regulatory frameworks for passengers with disabilities must support successful service delivery no matter where a journey begins or ends.”

Justin Erbacci from ACI World added: “ACI is committed to helping our member airports enable barrier-free environments that provide equal access and outstanding travel experiences for all guests regardless of ability."

This symposium is organized as part of the 2024 ICAO Year of Facilitation. It aims to generate new expertise in improving air travel experiences for individuals with disabilities and inform discussions among ICAO’s 193 Member States at their upcoming assembly in 2025.

The event will also feature an exhibition showcasing practical solutions for accessibility in aviation. Registration is open to stakeholders such as border control authorities, airport operators, advocacy groups, and interested parties from all Member States.