Improved Accessibility For Disabled Travellers

UK CAA Tighten Information Rules For Disabled Passengers The UK CAA has set tougher requirements on airports and airlines concerning information they must provide disabled passengers. The Civil Aviation Authority has issued a new set of rules on information UK airports and airlines operating flights to and from the United Kingdom must make available to passengers with disabilities. Requirements concern making essential information available to consumers in an accessible format. Information should be provided on a single web page one click away from the home page of the operator’s website or on webpages directly accessible from a single ‘landing’ webpage one click away from the home page. Content should be presented in a clear and easy to understand way and accessible for passengers with impairments such as blindness or low vision, deafness or hearing loss, learning disabilities, cognitive limitations, restricted movement, photosensitivity or any combination of these. The design of your websites should take into consideration existing international guidelines on website accessibility. Airports must publish information on the assistance provided at the airport and how to obtain this assistance; Information on the layout of the airport; Information on quality standards and airport security; Handling of mobility equipment and assistance dogs; The telephone number and opening hours of the airport’s helpline for enquiries from Passengers with Reduced Mobility and other disabilities; Information on how to complain. In addition to what required from airports, airlines must publish Information on safety restrictions; Information on seating on-board; Information on fitness to fly; Information on when a carer will be required; accessibility and use of lavatories; compensation for damaged or lost mobility devices. “This is a giant leap forward in terms of quality, quantity, and accessibility of information available to passengers with disabilities,” Reduced Mobility Rights Director Roberto Castiglioni said. “In a perfect world, we would like to see information made available to consumers in a printed format at PRM lounges and assistance desks across airports.” Airports and airlines have until 31st October 2014 to comply with the new requirements. The UK CAA told operators it may take formal enforcement action to ensure compliance under sections 86 and 87 of the Civil Aviation Act 2012. This may include imposing a penalty or seeking a court injunction against operators not in compliance with the new rules. http://www.reducedmobility.eu/20140818497/The-News/uk-caa-tighten-information-rules-for-disabled-passengers.html

Airport Supports Travellers With Sight Loss

San Francisco International is about to make life decidedly easier for blind and visually impaired travellers. The airport will unveil a Bluetooth beacon system that will help these passengers find their way through Terminal 2 using only their phone. When users walk past one of the 500 transmitters, their devices will announce nearby points of interest; they can find flight gates, ATMs, information desks and power outlets without asking for help. An early version of the necessary app also has a directory for sighted visitors. The guide technology only works on iOS devices so far but it is understood that it will eventually support Android-toting guests as well.

Product Review: Prodigi Tablet handheld electronic magnifier

A powerful, lightweight 5” HD magnifier with touch screen. Magnification from 1.2x to 20x Select from a wide variety of enhanced contrast options. Easy to use Touch and Tap™ controls. Store photos and documents to take with you wherever you go. Characters can be converted into Diamond-Edge Text™ for easier reading. Switch from reading documents to listening to them, with the tap of a finger. Built-in LED light source. This piece of equipment from Humanware, whilst very much a considered purchase at £749, does what it says on the box. However, it is probably more for those with a reasonable degree of sight or you may need help to set it up, e.g. setting the colours and contrast to suit your needs and enabling the reading voice. To read the full review please subscribe to our free eNewsletter - see the subscription form on the Newsletter page or email us at [email protected] for your sample issue.