Kempegowda International Airport Sets New Benchmark for Accessibility Becoming India’s First Airport to Earn Prestigious Level 3 Accreditation for Inclusive Travel

Published on November 21, 2025

Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) has made history by becoming the first airport in India to receive the prestigious Level 3 Accessibility Accreditation, setting a new benchmark for inclusive travel in the country. This achievement highlights the airport’s unwavering commitment to creating a barrier-free and dignified experience for all passengers, particularly those with disabilities. With a comprehensive approach to accessibility, including digital tools, inclusive services, and frontline staff empowerment, BLR Airport has taken significant strides in ensuring that every traveler, regardless of ability, enjoys a seamless and empowering journey through one of India’s busiest aviation hubs.

Kempegowda International Airport (BLR Airport) in Bengaluru has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first airport in India to receive Level 3 certification under the Accessibility Enhancement Accreditation (AEA) programme, awarded by Airports Council International (ACI). This recognition underscores the airport’s continued dedication to fostering inclusivity, accessibility, and an equitable experience for all passengers. It also highlights the airport’s progress in ensuring a travel environment that accommodates the needs of every individual.

Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), the operator of BLR Airport, has long embraced accessibility and inclusion as core values, aligning them with its long-term vision to create a barrier-free and respectful travel experience. This recognition marks a pivotal moment in BLR Airport’s journey, as it advances from Level 1, achieved in December 2024, to Level 3 in November 2025. The rapid progression within such a short span of time is a testament to the airport’s leadership in promoting inclusive transformation within the aviation sector.

Central to BLR Airport’s commitment to accessibility is its “B-Included” initiative. Under this initiative, BIAL has introduced a broad spectrum of accessible facilities, cutting-edge digital tools, and services that ensure inclusivity is embedded throughout the airport experience. One of the standout features of the airport’s accessibility efforts is its role as one of the few airports globally to employ Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) in frontline customer service positions. This initiative helps empower employees, providing them with tailored resources and assistive devices through the airport’s Assistive Device Policy. These customized tools ensure that staff can offer seamless services to passengers, regardless of their abilities.

The key achievements that led to BLR Airport’s Level 3 recognition are as follows:

Enhanced Digital Accessibility: The introduction of new digital accessibility tools, coupled with the launch of a comprehensive Accessibility Policy, significantly enhances the airport’s user-friendliness for people with disabilities. A notable addition is the “Social Story” feature on the BLR Airport website, which helps neurodivergent passengers and their caregivers better navigate the airport environment by providing a structured, easy-to-understand guide to the airport journey.

Collaborative Partnerships: BLR Airport has forged partnerships with airlines and passenger groups, collaborating on autism awareness initiatives and co-creating programs that address the needs of Persons with Reduced Mobility (PRMs), caregivers, and accessibility experts. These partnerships have been pivotal in shaping a more inclusive travel environment.

Training and Awareness Expansion: BIAL has implemented specialized training for airport employees, concessionaires, and partners, helping to enhance empathy and improve the quality of service provided to all passengers. This training ensures that all staff are equipped to meet the diverse needs of travelers, creating a more welcoming and supportive atmosphere across the airport.

Universal Design Integration: Accessibility is now a cornerstone of every new infrastructure project, service innovation, and digital upgrade at BLR Airport. From accessible bathroom facilities to ramps, elevators, and wayfinding systems, the airport is committed to ensuring that its physical and digital spaces are universally designed, making it easier for all passengers to navigate the airport with ease and confidence.

BLR Airport’s approach to accessibility extends beyond the physical infrastructure. The airport has taken significant steps toward improving digital inclusivity, which is an integral aspect of modern travel. One of the notable initiatives is the integration of the Government of India’s UX4G Internet Accessibility Widget on the airport’s website. This tool improves website navigation for users with disabilities, enabling them to access relevant information more easily. Additionally, BLR Airport has introduced a dedicated section on its website that provides specific information for PRMs and PwDs, featuring inclusive content and assistive tools designed to accommodate a wide range of accessibility needs.

In addition to these digital enhancements, BIAL is also committed to fostering a culture of empathy and inclusivity among its workforce. Through ongoing sensitization programs and initiatives such as the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard program, passengers with invisible disabilities are given a means to signal their specific needs to staff. The airport has also introduced sensory rooms designed to offer passengers with sensory sensitivities a calm space away from the bustling airport environment. Regular workshops and training sessions under the Accessibility Committee further ensure that awareness and understanding of accessibility issues are consistently raised across the entire airport ecosystem.

By embedding accessibility in its infrastructure, digital platforms, and workforce culture, BLR Airport is setting a new standard for inclusive travel. The airport’s dedication to making every passenger feel valued and supported, regardless of their physical or cognitive abilities, is evident in every aspect of its operations. The Level 3 AEA accreditation is not just a recognition of BLR Airport’s achievements; it is a reflection of its continuous commitment to making travel more inclusive, accessible, and dignified for everyone.

Kempegowda International Airport has set a new standard for inclusive travel by becoming India’s first airport to earn Level 3 Accessibility Accreditation, showcasing its commitment to providing a barrier-free experience for all passengers. This achievement reflects the airport’s comprehensive efforts in integrating accessibility into its infrastructure, services, and digital tools.

Through these efforts, BLR Airport is leading the way in creating an environment where every traveler can navigate their journey with comfort, confidence, and respect, ensuring a truly inclusive experience for all.