Virgin Australia and Adelaide Airport have officially launched ‘Try Before You Fly’, a new program designed to make flying more accessible for Australians with disability or health conditions.
The first of its kind in Australia, the initiative lets participants go through a full airport and flight experience, minus the actual flight. That means guests can get comfortable with the process in a no-pressure environment from check-in to boarding and finding their seat.
After successful trials in 2024, TBYF welcomes 35 new participants today, reaching its 200th guest in total.
“At Virgin Australia we want flying to be a wonderful experience for all and champion programs like Try Before You Fly as they provide both a meaningful and practical way to remove barriers, foster inclusion and open up a world of possibilities to those who would otherwise avoid flying,” Virgin Australia Chief Risk Officer Stuart Aggs said.
“We are incredibly proud to formally launch the program with Adelaide Airport today, with support from the South Australian Government, Velocity Frequent Flyer, What Ability and other community organisations who have helped us bring this to life.
“Of the previous round participants, 47 per cent have since chosen to travel by air, so we know the transformative power that programs like this can have in fostering inclusion and look forward to exploring new ways to remove barriers to flying.”
Adelaide Airport Executive General Manager People, Culture and Customer, Dermot O’Neill said the South Australian hub was “delighted the Try Before You Fly program will become an ongoing initiative to support our customers”.
“This program gives individuals with disabilities and conditions that impact their ability to travel an opportunity to go through the entire process as a test run and become familiar with what will happen before they fly, to help take away some of the anxiety of the unknown,” he remarked.
“This program will run alongside other accessible travel initiatives at Adelaide Airport including our meet and assist program, hearing loops installed throughout the terminal and Facility Dog, Elmo – trained by Guide Dogs SA/NT – who spends his working hours as a reassuring presence for people with hidden disabilities who may need some support when it isn’t immediately apparent.”
Meanwhile, Minister for Trade and Tourism, Don Farrell said the program upped the ante in accessible travel.
“By making this program permanent, Virgin Australia and Adelaide Airport are setting a new standard in inclusive travel – one that’s good for individuals, good for tourism, and good for Australia,” he stated.
“Tourism is not just about destinations – it’s about people. This program supports accessible tourism by ensuring that more Australians, regardless of their circumstances, can experience the joy of travel. It helps make sure that no one is left behind.”
