TravelAbility Insider

The Intersection of Travel and Disability

Airlines

Plans for World’s First In-Cabin Wheelchair Airline Announced. Will it Fly?

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The AirCraft Company, a new start-up based in Wichita, Kansas, has revealed its plans to produce a hybrid-electric, 30-seat regional airliner. Called the Pangea SY30J. One thing that might set The AirCraft Company apart from its competition is its focus on accessibility and comfort. Not only will the cabin be more spacious with larger seats for “real-size” people, but it will also be able to accommodate passengers’ wheelchairs inside the cabin. . Read more.

Our Takeaway: This futuristic approach to accessible design is heaven-sent for the disability community but there are still many hurdles on the horizon , for example, funding and FAA approval, before this becomes a reality.

Video of the Month: Hell in the Air from Vice Media

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bottom view of an airplane in the sky

Flying Has Become Hell for Passengers in Wheelchairs. 

Travelability Insider Insight: The most powerful video we’ve found to date:  For millions of wheelchair users, flying on an airplane means undergoing a series of indignities, and sometimes even dealing with a broken chair upon arrival.  View the video here.

Dubai Airport Launches New Initiatives for People withHidden Disabilities

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Dubai Airport is introducing a comprehensive new program to ensure the delivery of a sector-leading, inclusive, and seamless travel experience for all People of Determination (POD) with hidden disabilities that travel through Dubai International (DXB).

As part of Dubai Airport’s shared values ‘We all meet the world differently’, this new initiative will contribute to the UAE Vision 2021 and Dubai Plan 2021 vision for Dubai to be the world’s leading disability-friendly city and barrier-free community empowering and welcoming all POD travelers. Read more.

Avoiding a Meltdown at 30,000 Feet

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Flights can be stressful, intimidating, and, worst of all, downright exhausting. Despite this, aircraft as a transportation method is now just part of the modern, convenient travel experience, especially if you want to go long distances.

Airports themselves can be a minefield for those who are autistic. But thankfully, things have improved significantly over time (varies country by country). Airlines, too, are getting better all the time at providing support to disabled passengers. Here are some valuable airport and plane tips and strategies to help you plan and take your next trip. Read more.

US Airlines Pledge To Improve Accessibility For Disabled Passengers

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Airlines for America (A4A), the industry trade organization for US airlines, along with seven of its passenger airline members – Alaska, American, Delta, Hawaiian, JetBlue, Southwest and United – have announced a pledge to improve accessible air travel for all passengers with disabilities, including those with mobility, cognitive and social disabilities. As part of the commitment, A4A’s passenger airlines have pledged to four actions intended to improve accessibility, while continuing to prioritize the safety of all passengers. In addition to the four-part commitment, A4A says that its passenger airline members meet all Department of Transportation (DOT) accessibility standards and fully support the rights of passengers with disabilities set forth in the DOT’s Airline Passengers with Disabilities Bill of Rights, most especially the right to be treated with dignity and respect. Read More.

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