Aberdeen Airport recognised for ‘very good’ airport accessibility

The hard work by Aberdeen International Airport (ABZ) staff in helping passengers who require additional support has been recognised in a new report.

The Interim Airport Accessibility Report by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) reviewed airports over a seven month period this year (2022).

It assesses 16 of the largest UK airports, details those airports that have succeeded in making improvements, as well as those that need to put in place further improvements to ensure that in 2023 disabled people and people with reduced mobility receive the standard of service to which they are entitled.

Aberdeen International Airport was one of only six airports to be rated as ‘very good’ for the whole period under review.

Around 15,000 passengers have required additional support while travelling through Aberdeen International Airport this year.

Kevin Douglas, Terminal Operations Manager at Aberdeen International Airport commented: “ We understand that airports can be highly stressful environments for those with hidden disabilities or who need special assistance. Aberdeen Airport is committed to ensuring that all passengers using the facility are able to travel in as stress-free an environment as possible.

“Our assistance team will take the time to understand your needs and to make sure you are comfortable.

“We are in close dialogue with many local and national disability organisations in order to keep improving the service we provide. We actively seek feedback on our facilities to ensure they are fit for purpose and welcome the input of individuals and groups to shape our future provision through our AccessABZ Forum.”

Mark Beveridge, Operations Director at Aberdeen International Airport added: “An incredible amount of time and compassion is invest in making sure our special assistance service is one we can be proud of.

“We expect a high standard of our special assistance service and are delighted this has been recognised by the CAA.

“I want to thank all the staff involved in the customer journey for their fantastic work this year.”

One initiative used at the North-East’s major transport hub is its AccessABZ forum.

This helps the airport to engage and consult with local disability organisations and users of its assistance service.

The group normally meet twice a year at the airport with members having the opportunity to contribute to the airport and help it become a more accessible environment for all.

AccessABZ promotes the continuous improvement and review of services to ensure the needs of users of the assistance service is met.

Started in 2015 the group has already helped the airport make positive changes in its service, including a new assistance service desk being opened beside the main entrance.

Aberdeen International Airport is also part of a number of initiatives including the sunflower hidden disability lanyards to help make air travel more friendly and accessible for all passengers.

The airport can also offer passengers the opportunity to have familiarisation tours of the terminal prior to travel plans and produced a series of videos to help passengers travel confidently.