Emirates to Host 1st IATA Global Accessibility Symposium

In efforts to advance open dialogue for a more disability-inclusive air transport system, Emirates will be hosting the International Air Transport Association (IATA) inaugural Global Accessibility Symposium in Dubai during November 5-6.

The IATA Global Accessibility Symposium furthers the commitment of the resolution on passengers with disabilities which was made at the IATA Annual General Meeting in Seoul in June 2019.

The resolution aims to improve the air travel experience for the estimated one billion people living with disabilities worldwide by encouraging governments, airlines, airports and stakeholders across the aviation industry to work together to ensure access to a safe, reliable and dignified travel experience.

Photo Source: IATA

“The unanimous resolution by our airline members in June was a clear indication that the industry is committed to improving the air travel experience for passengers with disabilities. Air transport provides unparalleled opportunities and all travelers, no matter what their disability, deserve access to this freedom,” said Alexandre de Juniac, Director General and CEO of IATA.

Acknowledging that initiatives of this magnitude need to be a collaboration between all stakeholders, this event is part of an industry strategy to engage with policy-makers and operators, draw on the extensive knowledge of specialized advocacy groups and organisations, and understand how technology can play a role in furthering accessibility. Additionally, the aim is to tap into the experiences of travelers with disabilities to understand their needs and how the aviation industry can best assist them.

Photo Source: @IATA

“Emirates employs every effort to make air travel as comfortable and as seamless as possible for our customers, especially for those with special needs and disabilities,” said Emirates Airline President Tim Clark.

“This is just the beginning of the journey. The end game is to remove barriers, build policy frameworks, and implement concrete actions to advance universal accessibility,” he added.

The invitation-only event will include keynotes, panel discussions and fireside chats that will tackle a wide variety of accessibility topics.