Bengaluru Kempegowda International Airport Leads The Way In Accessible Travel With Groundbreaking Level 2 Accreditation, Ushering In A New Era Of Inclusive Air Travel In India

Published on August 30, 2025

Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport has achieved the historic Level 2 Accessibility Accreditation, making it the first airport in India to do so. This milestone highlights the airport’s ongoing commitment to improving accessibility, ensuring a seamless and inclusive travel experience for passengers with reduced mobility and disabilities. Through continuous efforts in infrastructure upgrades, staff training, and innovative initiatives, the airport is setting new standards for accessible air travel in India and globally.

Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (BLR) Achieves Groundbreaking Accessibility Milestone with Level 2 Accreditation

Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) has achieved the remarkable feat of earning Level 2 Accreditation under the Airports Council International’s (ACI) Accessibility Enhancement Accreditation (AEA) programme. This milestone makes it the first airport in India to receive such a distinguished recognition, highlighting its commitment to enhancing accessibility for all passengers. This milestone places BLR Airport among a select group of global airports committed to enhancing accessibility and ensuring smooth, inclusive travel experiences for all passengers, particularly those with reduced mobility and disabilities.

A Landmark Achievement in Global Airport Accessibility

The ACI’s Accessibility Enhancement Accreditation programme is a globally recognised initiative aimed at promoting inclusive air travel by setting a standard for evaluating airports on their accessibility practices. This programme assesses airports based on their policies, facilities, services, and governance systems, focusing on how well they cater to the needs of passengers with disabilities or reduced mobility. Achieving Level 2 Accreditation showcases BLR Airport’s unwavering commitment to making continuous improvements, enhancing accessibility, and integrating it into every aspect of airport operations.

A Holistic Approach to Accessibility at BLR Airport

At the heart of BLR Airport’s accessibility strategy is a dedicated committee that brings together key airport stakeholders. This team is responsible for driving initiatives that improve services and infrastructure for persons with reduced mobility (PRMs) and persons with disabilities (PwDs). The airport is committed to creating a supportive environment that addresses the diverse needs of travellers through every stage of their journey, from check-in to boarding.

Staff training plays a pivotal role in delivering high-quality, empathetic service to passengers requiring assistance. Airport employees are equipped with the skills and knowledge to provide personalised support, ensuring that all passengers are treated with dignity and respect. Additionally, the airport’s facilities are continuously upgraded to meet the highest standards of accessibility, with a focus on providing safer, smoother, and more inclusive experiences for everyone.

Innovative Initiatives to Foster an Inclusive Travel Environment

BLR Airport has introduced a series of groundbreaking initiatives designed to enhance accessibility for travellers with specific needs. One of the most notable of these is the launch of the Sunflower Lanyard scheme in 2022. This initiative provides discreet identification for passengers with hidden disabilities, ensuring they receive the support they need throughout their journey. The Sunflower Lanyard, a symbol that is recognised by airport staff and service providers, is part of the airport’s broader strategy to improve the travel experience for people with non-visible conditions such as autism, chronic pain, or other cognitive and neurological disorders.

In addition, the airport has created a sensory room tailored to the needs of neurodivergent travellers. This facility, the first of its kind at an Indian airport, offers a quiet and calming space for passengers who may experience sensory overload in a bustling airport environment. The room provides a safe and comfortable space for individuals with autism, sensory processing disorders, and other related conditions, allowing them to rest and recharge before continuing their journey.

Collaboration with Government Bodies and Advocacy Groups

BLR Airport’s efforts to enhance accessibility are not limited to internal initiatives. The airport has fostered collaborations with government agencies, advocacy groups, and international accessibility experts to ensure that its facilities and services meet the evolving needs of travellers with disabilities. These partnerships have enabled BLR Airport to stay at the forefront of best practices in accessibility, while also aligning with global standards and policies aimed at making air travel more inclusive.

Through these partnerships, the airport has been able to create an environment where accessibility is not just a policy, but a fundamental aspect of its operational philosophy. Whether through infrastructure improvements, policy changes, or the introduction of innovative services, BLR Airport is setting the stage for a more accessible and equitable aviation industry.

Reinforcing BLR’s Role as a Global Leader in Accessibility

The Level 2 Accreditation under the ACI’s Accessibility Enhancement Accreditation programme is a testament to BLR Airport’s dedication to inclusivity and its commitment to fostering a welcoming environment for all passengers. This achievement reaffirms the airport’s position as a leader in advancing accessibility in aviation, setting a benchmark for airports around the world.

By continuously improving accessibility infrastructure and services, BLR Airport is helping to shape the future of travel. It is a clear example of how innovation, collaboration, and empathy can work together to create a barrier-free air travel experience, ensuring that passengers of all abilities can enjoy the same level of convenience and comfort. This achievement is a significant step towards a more inclusive future for the global aviation industry, where every traveller, regardless of ability, can experience seamless, dignified, and accessible travel.