New guidelines have been set by Civil Aviation Authority, to help passengers with hidden disabilities get a better support at UK airports and more effective communication ahead of travel, helping to reduce stress and anxiety when travelling.
Airports should stage “open days” to help passengers with hidden disabilities familiarise themselves with what can be a challenging environment.
Jeremy Hughes, chief executive of the Alzheimer’s Society, said that, they know that airports can be a daunting and frightening experience for many people affected by dementia. This can lead them to feel socially isolated.
The CAA has issued new guidelines to airports to improve journeys for such travellers. It is also demanding better treatment for passengers with hearing loss and visual impairment.
In order to improve their approach to travellers, the authority wants security staff to undergo awareness training.
Airports will be expected to set up “quiet routes” through the airport that bypass the duty-free zone — which is typically confusing and cacophonous. They are also being asked to offer people with hidden disabilities the option of wearing a lanyard or bracelet to ensure easy identification by staff.
The CAA guideline also insists that, people with hidden disabilities must never be separated from a parent/friend/accompanying person during a security search, and security staff must explain prior to the search what screening will take place and make any necessary adjustments.
Of the 700,000 passengers who pass through a UK airport on a typical day, an estimated 7,400 have a disability or reduced mobility. They are termed “PRMs” by the industry. Under EU legislation, such passengers are legally entitled to free assistance.
Chris Grayling, the transport secretary said that, he would encourage airports to learn from each other, consult with charities and specialist groups and deliver great services, to help ensure passengers with hidden disabilities enjoy the huge benefits of air travel.
