Disabled air travellers warned of long distances from check-in to gate
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Version 0 of 1. Travellers jetting off from Britain may have to walk more than 1km to get to their airport departure gate, according to analysis from a travel trade body which warns of the challenges for disabled passengers or those with limited mobility. The Association of British Travel Agents (Abta) found that travellers leaving major UK airports faced a lengthy walk from check-in or special assistance desks to the gate. This means that in worst-case scenarios, for example at busy times of the year, those who fail to plan ahead risk missing their flights. Although airports have invested considerable sums installing moving walkways, shuttles and other foot passenger transport aids, there may still be lengthy walks at larger airports. Many newer terminal buildings or satellites may need to be accessed by shuttle rail or transit, which involves a longer journey. At Stansted airport near London, the longest walk to a gate from the check-in desks is 1,165m (0.7 miles), at Luton 900m and Manchester airport 822m. At Birmingham airport, the longest walk is just 530m. “For most, travelling through airports is a fairly straightforward process, but for those who may find walking longer distances harder to manage, larger airports can present a challenge,” said Nikki White, Abta’s director of destinations and sustainability. “We would encourage anyone who may need assistance to inform their tour operator or airline no later than 48 hours before they travel so that their journey through the airport will be as comfortable as possible, and they will be able to board their flight with plenty of time to spare.” Many passengers typically only ask for assistance on arriving at the airport and discover they may have to walk long distances, Abta pointed out. Providing assistance at this late stage, particularly at busy times of the year, could be problematic for airport resources. Abta said people who use wheelchairs or who may be using crutches, or have some other form of significant physical disability, are generally very aware of the need to inform their airline in advance. However, other passengers may also require assistance to make the journey from check-in to gate. World Tourism Day is on Tuesday, and this year focuses on accessible tourism. |