TravelAbility Insider

The Intersection of Travel and Disability

Debbie Austin

Destination BC Passes Accessibility Mandate and Forms Accessibility Inclusion Committee

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In September 2022, the Province outlined the requirements for organizations to comply with the Act, including creating an accessibility advisory committee. Destination BC’s AIC is composed of 13 individuals from across the province and will be chaired by Destination BC’s President & CEO, Richard Porges. The committee’s role is to provide recommendations and advice to Destination BC on reducing barriers regarding its programs and policies relating to tourism marketing, development, and management. Destination BC’s application process and assessment approach were co-designed with those that have lived experience and various dimensions of diversity. Utilizing a thorough assessment, this inclusive process resulted in an intersectional group of individuals whose perspectives will support Destination BC in the meaningful implementation of the Accessible British Columbia Act. Read More.

Our Takeaway: This is a huge step towards bridging the gap in accessibility. Those impacted by inaccessibility are able to share their expertise to raise the standard of inclusion.

Dubai Makes Night Swimming Possible for People with Disabilities

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Dubai had announced the opening of three new beaches for night swimming in May 2023. Now, authorities have made these beaches accessible to people of determination. Residents and tourists can swim on these beaches anytime — even after sunset.

The Dubai Municipality has equipped the beaches with lighting systems and electronic information panels and has now employed dedicated services for people of determination. The beaches will have qualified cadres of rescuers and supervisors to ensure a comfortable and safe night swimming experience for all.

New signs have been installed pointing out the beaches are now accessible to people of determination. The beaches have been fitted with special ramps to ease movement to the beach. A ‘Beach Floating Wheelchair’ has been allocated, further expanding beach accessibility. Read More.

Our Takeaway: Beaches have always been one of the most challenging destinations for people with mobility needs. Dubai has gone beyond the standard beach wheelchair and mobi mat to truly welcome all to enjoy the full beach experience.

Savannah Airport Introduces Power Wheelchair for Passengers

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Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport has teamed up with WHILL, an innovative personal transportation solutions company, to provide improved mobility for passengers at the airport. The new service allows passengers to use a WHILL Model C2 power chair to navigate the terminal themselves, including visiting restaurants, shops, and restrooms before heading to their gate. Traditionally, passengers with mobility limitations would be pushed in a wheelchair by airport staff, which does not provide the same level of independence. Read More.

Our Takeaway: With the influx of baby boomers requiring mobility assistance to navigate airports combined with the expense and difficulty recruiting wheelchair assistants, cool products like Whill electric wheelchair can help fill the gap.

Tips for Traveling with a Neurodivergent Child

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A recent survey found that 87% of parents with autistic children avoid family vacations due to the overwhelming challenges posed by new environments, sounds, smells, and disruptions. Behavioral issues related to emotional meltdowns can disrupt the entire trip. 93% of respondents would be more likely to travel if autism-certified options were available, with 97% expressing dissatisfaction with current travel options for families with autistic individuals. Read More.

Our Takeaway: By implementing thoughtful accommodations and services that consider the specific needs of neurodivergent guests, the hospitality industry can create a welcoming and supportive environment for all travelers. Training and awareness for staff can result in not only happy guests but also in a greater confidence in repeat travel and stronger brand loyalty, as families with neurodivergent members feel valued and encouraged to return to establishments that genuinely understand and accommodate their needs.

MSP Earns Highest Industry Accreditation for Accessibility

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After reviewing MSP Airport, the ACI has given the airport a Level 3 accreditation. “On behalf of the entire MSP team and our partners, we are honored that ACI recognized MSP Airport for providing the highest level of airport accessibility,” said Brian Ryks, CEO of the Metropolitan Airports Commission, which owns and operates MSP Airport. “Accessibility is about working collaboratively with our traveling public, our airlines and our business partners to ensure everyone has equal access to the benefits of air travel. MSP has been at the forefront of creating an accessible passenger experience through investing in technology, infrastructure, training, and service.” Read More.

Our Takeaway: MSP’s attainment of the highest level of ACI accreditation sets a positive example for other airports and transportation facilities to follow. Ensuring that airports are accessible and inclusive is crucial in creating a seamless travel experience for passengers with disabilities, promoting equality and diversity, and removing the barriers that keep this community from traveling.