Culture & Travel
2 December 2024Our world is full of countless wonders waiting to be discovered. But are these wonders equally accessible to everyone?
On December 3, International Day of Persons with Disabilities, we at Flyista wanted to take a step forward—not only to raise awareness but also to break down barriers. Because creating a more accessible world is both an individual and collective responsibility for all of us.
In this article, we will highlight the importance of accessibility in travel, explore inspiring global solutions, and focus on small but impactful steps we can take to make a difference.
What Is Accessibility in Travel?
Let’s start by clarifying some concepts. Accessibility means enabling someone to travel freely, and this concept goes beyond removing physical barriers. Accessibility must also include solutions to meet the needs of individuals with visual, hearing, and sensory impairments.
Examples include physical access solutions like ramps, elevators, and appropriate seating areas, as well as sensory accessibility solutions such as audio guidance systems, Braille signage, and sign language support.
Inspiring Practices That Remove Barriers
How does the world view this issue, and what solutions are being implemented? Many service providers are now taking steps to eliminate the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities during travel.
For example, in Copenhagen, nearly all public transportation is wheelchair accessible. You can also find wide ramps in parks and tourist attractions.
Another disability-friendly city is Tokyo. There are guide paths on the streets for visually impaired individuals, and train stations feature audio guidance systems.
Many hotel chains have also increased room options with wider doors, shower seats, and audio guidance systems. While individuals with disabilities now have access to more comfortable accommodation services, activity options have also expanded significantly. For example, some diving centers offer special equipment and training programs for individuals with physical disabilities, while countries like Canada and New Zealand have created nature trails designed for wheelchair users.
Istanbul Airport: A Leading Destination for Accessibility
As one of the largest airports in the world, Istanbul Airport has made a significant impact in the sector with its accessible travel solutions. A series of innovative solutions ensures that travelers with disabilities, older adults, and those with limited mobility can travel comfortably. Let’s take a closer look at these services.
iGA Cares: Making Travel Easier for Everyone
iGA Cares is a service package designed to facilitate travel for passengers with unique needs. Its features include:
Accessible Routes: Wheelchair users can navigate easily using the clearly marked paths within the terminal. Elevators, ramps, and wide doors are designed to meet every need. Additionally, the IETT buses serving the airport are also wheelchair accessible.
Support Teams: Trained personnel are available to assist individuals with disabilities at every stage of their journey. To avoid long wait times, it is important to make reservations during ticket purchase or at least 48 hours before the flight.
Tranquil Room: Guests who are sensitive to noise and crowds have also been thoughtfully considered. Tranquil rooms, which include wheelchair charging stations, a small room for removing prosthetics, comfortable seating, and flight information screens, are available free of charge.
Cafe Yanımda: Warm and Personalized Service
Another innovative service offered by Istanbul Airport is the Cafe Yanımda concept. This service provides great convenience, especially for travelers who are visually impaired or hard of hearing.
Designed with accessibility in mind, the café features an isolated dining area for those sensitive to noise and crowds, a digital consultation kiosk with sign language support, wheelchair charging stations, accessible tables and chairs, and specially trained staff for communication with passengers with disabilities.
Visually impaired guests can review menus using QR codes or audio guidance devices, while guests who are hard of hearing can easily place their orders using special visual displays.
Continuous Improvement for Greater Accessibility
Istanbul Airport’s accessibility efforts are not limited to physical solutions. Technological and human-centered services tailored to passengers’ individual needs make the airport a more inclusive space. On December 3, International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Istanbul Airport continues to make Türkiye proud with its exemplary solutions, reminding us of the importance of accessibility efforts.
Herkes İçin Seyahat: Hep Birlikte Daha İyi Bir Gelecek
Every step that removes barriers is an opportunity for a more inclusive world. Services like iGA Cares and Cafe Yanımda at Istanbul Airport extend an invitation for everyone to travel freely.
This International Day of Persons with Disabilities, let us work together not only for one day but every day to create a more accessible world!
Note: For more information about iGA Cares, visit Istanbul Airport’s official website or seek assistance at the information desks.
