In an Aussie-first airport and airline initiative, Adelaide Airport and Virgin Australia have undertaken a “Try Before You Fly” pilot program to support people with disabilities and conditions who view flying as a travel barrier.
The program allowed over 30 passengers, along with their families and support workers, to experience the full airport and boarding process, from arrival to being seated on an aircraft.
As well as shining the spotlight on inclusivity, it’s also a great business move – quite simply, the more people that feel comfortable flying, the more air tickets sold.
Adelaide Airport Executive General Manager People, Culture and Customer, Dermot O’Neill said the South Australian hub aimed to give those that need support “a chance to be familiar with what will happen before they fly for real, to help take away some of the anxiety of the unknown”.
“This program has been designed to give individuals with disabilities and conditions that impact travel such as anxiety and autism an opportunity to go through the entire process as a test run – from arriving at the airport, checking in, passing through security and then boarding the plane and buckling up their seatbelt ready for take-off,” he remarked.
“It’s about helping them become familiar with the airport environment and processes and ensure a more comfortable and confident travel experience.
“Many of the customers who took part are already booked to fly in the coming weeks and months.
“We hope this initiative could be an ongoing program depending on feedback from the initial trial.”
Velocity Frequent Flyer CEO Nick Rohrlach said that Virgin Australia wants all travellers to have a positive experience and that the program helps those with disabilities feel more comfortable with airport procedures – and we know those processes can sometimes be enough to intimidate any flyer.
“At Virgin Australia, we always aim to make the travel experience wonderful for every guest including those with disabilities and health conditions,” he remarked.
“This exciting initiative aims to open a world of possibilities for these people who would ordinarily feel uncomfortable travelling.
“We are honoured to work with Adelaide Airport on what we believe is an Australian-first program and hope it can continue in an ongoing nature as part of our commitment to make travel a safe, convenient and enjoyable journey for all guests.”
Among the SA hub’s accessibility services are assistance animal relief areas, ‘Changing Places’ facilities, a volunteer ambassador program, meet and assist at accessible drop-off zones, hearing loops, a security assistance lane and the sunflower lanyard system, a discreet way to flag for help. In addition, Elmo, the facility dog, supports passengers with hidden disabilities.
Earlier this year, Adelaide Airport launched valet parking for all flyers for the first time. For the ultimate in convenience, the new valet parking service allows travellers – regardless of airline, destination or class of travel – to simply drive up to the terminal’s southern doors, hand over their keys and head straight to check-in.
