City of Derry Airport is making it easier for people with a disability, accessibility and age-related challenges to travel.
The airport collaborated with the Consumer Council NI and Derry City and Strabane District Council to host a special Accessibility Audit event. The initiative, which coincided with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, involved valuable input from the Over 50’s Reference Panel and the Accessibility Forum, comprising thirteen individuals from various organizations representing consumers with firsthand experience of difficulties while flying.
The recommendations stemming from the recent audit were presented to the City of Derry Airport, reflecting the commitment to continuous improvement in creating an accessible and welcoming environment for all passengers.
Cllr Patricia Logue, the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, emphasized the importance of providing a positive air travel experience for everyone. She commended the substantial improvements made by the airport for passengers with disabilities or reduced mobility, highlighting collaborative efforts with the Council’s Age-Friendly and Access & Inclusion Officers and the Accessibility Forum.
“The involvement of consumer and disability groups helps to improve every part of the consumer journey, considering the individual needs of each passenger. The Access and Age-Friendly audits aim to create environments that cater to the diverse needs of persons with a disability and reflect the needs of our aging population and encourage service improvements,” stated Cllr Patricia Logue.
International Day of Persons with Disabilities serves as a platform to promote the rights and well-being of individuals with disabilities, and this year’s theme, ‘Transformative solutions for inclusive development: the role of innovation in fueling an accessible and equitable world,’ aligns with the ongoing efforts to enhance accessibility.
Michelle Kelly from Consumer Council NI acknowledged the progress made by airports since the introduction of the UK Civil Aviation Authority’s airport accessibility framework in 2015. She praised the partnership with City of Derry Airport in establishing the Accessibility Forum, where users of Special Assistance services contribute knowledge and experiences, leading to positive changes and enhancements in services.
Gerard McCloskey, Operations Manager with City of Derry Airport, reiterated the airport’s commitment to being a welcoming space for everyone, regardless of abilities or age. He highlighted specific enhancements, including the installation of a Changing Places toilet accessible to all, not just passengers, and improvements in signage. Trained staff are available to assist passengers, ensuring a smooth transition during their visit.
McCloskey affirmed, “We will review the recommendations and advise all stakeholders of developments in the near future.”
For further information on the support available from the City of Derry Airport or to book Special Assistance, visit City of Derry Airport or contact 028 7181 0784 or email info@cityofderryairport.com.
To learn more about events marking the International Day of Persons with Disabilities across Derry City and Strabane District Council, visit Derry City and Strabane District Council or contact the Access and Inclusion Officer at 028 7125 3253.
