Emirates Joins 'Be My Eyes' for Visually Impaired Flyers
At the AccessAbilities Expo 2024, a prominent event in the UAE supporting people with disabilities, Emirates announced that it has become the first airline to join the 'Be My Eyes' service, specifically for blind and visually impaired passengers. Alongside this, the airline introduced several pioneering initiatives aimed at enhancing the comfort and safety of travel experiences for people with disabilities.
Emirates in the 'Be My Eyes' Program
'Be My Eyes' is a smartphone application that assists blind and visually impaired individuals in their daily activities, allowing them to request visual assistance from anywhere in the world. Emirates' participation in this program marks another milestone for the airline, as passengers can virtually seek help from sighted volunteers or airline staff through the app.
Emirates aims to provide equal levels of service and attention to all passengers, regardless of physical capacity. By introducing the 'Be My Eyes' service, Emirates has expanded its offerings for passengers with disabilities, enhancing the flying experience to be more complete and seamless.
Introduction of New Accessible Services
At the Expo, along with announcing their partnership with 'Be My Eyes,' several new developments were showcased to increase accessibility in the airline's services. Emirates introduced a wheelchair-accessible car service enabling disabled passengers to travel comfortably and safely to the airport and back home or to other destinations. These cars are specially equipped to facilitate easy entry and exit, and drivers undergo specialized training to provide comprehensive support.
Sign Language Robot for Supporting Disabled Passengers
One of the most innovative features presented was a sign language-using robot, aiding deaf and hard-of-hearing passengers in communication at various airport locations, such as check-in counters or during boarding. The robot can interpret and use multiple sign languages, catering to the diverse needs of global passenger traffic.
The Significance of the AccessAbilities Expo
The AccessAbilities Expo offers a unique platform for companies to showcase innovations and commitments to improving the lives of people with disabilities. Emirates' participation and the developments displayed set an exemplary standard not just in aviation but across the entire service sector. The airline is actively engaged in providing accessible and enjoyable services for all passengers through technological advancements and training its workforce to raise awareness.
During the Expo, Emirates once again proved its dedication to leading inclusivity and accessibility initiatives, bringing the support and service for passengers with disabilities to a new level.
