Airport Accessibility

The practices, technologies, policies, and physical design choices that enable travelers with disabilities to use airports independently and with dignity. In the United States, airport accessibility is governed partly by the FAA's Airport Disability Compliance Program (AC 150/5360-14A), which mandates federal compliance and requires airports and airlines to provide personal assistance services such as gate escorts to travelers with disabilities. Practical accessibility extends beyond compliance to include wayfinding support (BLE beacons, tactile maps, audio signage), dignified staff interactions (not defaulting to wheelchairs for blind passengers), and the ability to move independently between the gate and nearby amenities like restrooms, restaurants, and shops during long layovers.