Aberdeen International Airport retains ‘very good’ grading in CAA’s Accessibility study
Aberdeen International Airport has received the highest rating of “very good” from the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) for disability access.
The CAA on Thursday 11 July 2019 published its fourth annual report on the disability access of the UK’s largest airports, spanning a 12-month reporting period of 1 April 2018 – 31 March 2019. The CAA’s accessibility framework is a world-first and is driving improvements in performance to help improve accessibility across UK airports.
To achieve a 'very good' classification, airports most provide high quality support on the day of travel to passengers who require additional assistance as well as keeping in regular contact and consultation with its users. In total, there were a record number of 3.7 million requests for assistance at UK airports in the latest year – a rise of over 80 per cent since 2010.
Last year, Aberdeen International Airport installed a Changing Places facility, designed to assist passengers with additional support needs and physical disabilities. Included within the Changing Places facility is a height adjustable bench, electronic hoist, non-slip floor and privacy screens. The facility can be accessed without the need for a key, and is alarmed should any passengers require assistance.
The report stated Aberdeen International “provided a high quality service” and had “shown commitment to ongoing consultation with the disability community.”
Steve Szalay, Aberdeen International Airport Managing Director said: “We’re delighted that once again we retain the highest possible grade in this year’s CAA Accessibility report. The CAA singled us out for praise with our work with local disability groups through our forum, Access ABZ.
“We’re immensely proud our airport has been recognised as an inclusive environment for all and we will continue to come up with new ways of supporting and assisting our passengers.”