Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) has been awarded Level 2 Accreditation under the Airports Council International (ACI) Accessibility Enhancement Accreditation programme. This distinction makes KIA the first airport in India and one of a select group globally to receive such recognition. The achievement highlights a pivotal moment in the nation’s aviation sector, repositioning the city at the forefront of a global movement to ensure that travel is not just efficient, but truly inclusive for every individual, regardless of their physical or cognitive abilities. This milestone reflects a fundamental shift in the airport’s operational philosophy, where a human-centric approach is woven into the very fabric of its service design.
The Level 2 Accreditation is more than just a certificate; it is a rigorous benchmark that assesses an airport’s commitment to accessibility across its facilities, services, and governance. The ACI programme is the world’s only initiative of its kind, and reaching this level of accreditation signifies a dedication to continuous improvement and a proactive strategy to embed accessibility into every policy and passenger experience. This accreditation underscores a long-term vision to move beyond mere compliance and cultivate an environment where dignity and comfort are non-negotiable for all travellers. By setting a new standard, the airport is providing a blueprint for how a bustling metropolis can address the nuanced needs of its diverse population.
At the heart of this success is a dedicated accessibility committee, which includes a broad range of airport stakeholders. This collaborative body spearheads initiatives to enhance mobility solutions for Persons with Reduced Mobility (PRMs) and Persons with Disabilities (PwDs). These concerted efforts are supported by ongoing staff training, which is designed to foster a culture of empathetic and personalised assistance. Furthermore, continuous infrastructure upgrades are a key part of the strategy, ensuring that the entire journey through the airport is smoother and safer. These measures demonstrate that the airport’s leadership is committed to creating a universally inclusive environment, reflecting a deep-seated belief that travel should be a seamless experience for everyone.
The airport’s commitment to universal design is particularly evident in its groundbreaking initiatives. Building on its framework, KIA introduced the Sunflower Lanyard scheme in 2022, a simple yet powerful tool to support travellers with hidden disabilities. This programme allows airport personnel to discreetly identify and offer assistance to passengers who may need more time or support, ensuring a stress-free passage. Additionally, the launch of a dedicated sensory room for neurodivergent passengers, the first of its kind at an Indian airport, provides a calming space to ease their journey. These pioneering services offer a powerful human angle to the story, showcasing how technology and thoughtful design can intersect to provide crucial support and comfort to those who might otherwise find air travel challenging.
In the broader context of urban development, this accomplishment places Bengaluru as a leader in creating sustainable, equitable cities. By championing accessibility, the airport is contributing to a larger societal goal of building infrastructure that is truly for all. This proactive approach to design and service delivery serves as an inspiration for other public and private entities, proving that a focus on human dignity can coexist with commercial viability. Ultimately, the Level 2 Accreditation is not just an award for the airport; it is a profound win for the city’s citizens and a testament to the power of deliberate, people-first innovation in shaping a more inclusive future.
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