Airlines committed to passengers with disabilities

29-10-23

The results of the latest International Air Transport Association (IATA) Global Passenger Survey (GPS) related to the accessibility of air travel for passengers with disabilities showed significant levels of satisfaction among airline passengers who used special assistance services, with 80% of travelers who used special assistance services saying their expectations were met.

"In 2019, IATA at its Annual General Meeting adopted a resolution that reflects our members' commitment to ensuring that all travelers have access to safe, reliable and dignified travel. While we all have more work to do to meet the needs of our passengers with disabilities, we believe the result of this survey demonstrates progress toward that commitment," said Conrad Clifford, IATA deputy director general and corporate secretary.

The survey also aligned with airlines' experience that more travelers than ever are requesting assistance. With the aging population in many key air transport markets, this trend is likely to continue and aviation, like many other industries, will struggle to find the resources to cater to this important demographic.