The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), Airports Council International (ACI), and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) will jointly host the Symposium on Accessibility in International Civil Aviation from 2 to 3 December 2024 at ICAO Headquarters in Montréal. This event will unite governments, industry leaders, and advocacy groups to address the challenges faced by people with disabilities or reduced mobility in air travel.
With the theme “Inclusive and Universally Accessible Air Transport for Persons with Disabilities and Reduced Mobility,” the symposium will explore ways to build a more accessible aviation system. Discussions will focus on international frameworks, accessibility policies, and removing barriers in air travel. Issues such as architectural, technological, and informational obstacles will be analysed, along with the role of collaboration in establishing standards and practices. The event will also look at how design and technology can enhance accessibility and improve mobility within the air transport sector.
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that over 1.3 billion people globally live with a disability, accounting for about 16% of the population. With the ageing population, this figure is expected to grow. There is already a strong commitment from both governments and industry to enhance accessible air travel. Current regulations primarily address this issue within individual jurisdictions, yet greater progress will likely depend on establishing a global framework for accessibility.
ICAO Secretary General Juan Carlos Salazar highlighted the need for unified cooperation to address air travel barriers, noting that ICAO, alongside IATA and ACI, is working to build stronger partnerships within the aviation value chain. He expressed that by demonstrating effective collaborative practices to governments and operators, existing travel barriers can be effectively tackled. Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General, also emphasised the importance of coordination, pointing out that airlines are committed to providing dignified travel for passengers with disabilities. He stated that national regulatory frameworks need to support service delivery that works for all, irrespective of where a journey begins or ends. For Walsh, the symposium is a key step towards this goal.
ACI World’s Director General, Justin Erbacci, expressed ACI’s commitment to assisting airports in creating accessible environments. He noted that the symposium provides a unique opportunity for stakeholders across aviation to discuss actionable steps towards a more inclusive air transport system.
This event is part of the 2024 ICAO Year of Facilitation, aimed at improving the travel experience for persons with disabilities. Outcomes from the symposium will also inform discussions among ICAO’s 193 Member States on accessibility at the upcoming 42nd ICAO Assembly in 2025.
More information on the event and registration details are available at www.icao.int/Meetings/Accessibility2024. The symposium will include an exhibition of practical accessibility solutions and services and is open to all aviation stakeholders, such as border control authorities, airport and aircraft operators, advocacy groups, and representatives from all Member States.
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