Gatwick introduces accessibility guides for 30 areas of airport

Gatwick airport has introduced a series of accessibility guides covering 30 areas of the airport in a bid to help passengers requiring extra assistance.

The free online guides, produced by AccessAble, the UK’s largest provider of accessibility information, include reference to flooring types, signage, light and noise levels, step-free access, walking distances, seating and accessible toilets, in addition to other details.

Gatwick accessibility manager Anna-Ruth Cockerham said: “September and October are typically our busiest months for welcoming passengers who require some extra assistance, so we are delighted to launch our new Detailed Access Guides to help make those journeys through the airport easier.”

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The guides, which feature facts, figures and photographs, have been checked on site by trained surveyors from AccessAble.

The organisation’s founder and executive chair, Gregory Burke, said the “crucial information” in the guides would enhance the airport experience for the hundreds of thousands of passengers requiring assistance who travel through Gatwick each year.

“The AccessAble website offers the opportunity to create real change in the way that disabled people travel and we hope this exciting programme with London Gatwick, one of the most important transport hubs in the UK, represents a significant moment on this journey,” he added.

Cockerham said: “We know everyone’s accessibility needs are different, which is why having detailed, accurate information is so important. These guides will help London Gatwick achieve its vision to be the airport for everyone, whatever your journey.”

Before the August bank holiday weekend, the Civil Aviation Authority published a series of videos encouraging travellers to brush up on their passenger rights.

It also said passengers requiring special assistance should notify their airline and arrive early at the airport, where staff at accessibility points can help.