Virgin Atlantic tests its BSL delivery
Virgin Atlantic has teamed up with deaf Gladiators star, Jodie Ounsley, and deaf twin content creators, Hermon and Heroda Berhane, to help better understand the needs of its deaf and hard of hearing customers as part of the airline’s commitment to ensuring every customer has a positive and inclusive travel experience.
The airline, which is the only UK airline to offer British Sign Language (BSL) trained cabin crew, asked the trio to test its services on a flight from London Heathrow to Washington.
The experience was captured in a film released to mark International Week of Deaf People.
ACI World expands accessibility guidance
Airports Council International (ACI) World recently launched the Airports and Accessible Travel: A Practical Guide.
Building on the ACI World Airports and Persons with Disabilities Handbook, the expanded guidance provides up-to-date best practices for integrating accessibility into both new and existing airport facilities.
The guide has been developed by the ACI World Facilitation and Services Standing Committee, together with leading accessibility advocacy groups, ACI World training partners, ACI Regions, ACI airport members and Customer Centric Consulting. It was made possible with the financial support of InterVISTAS Consulting and Amadeus.
RAKTDA among ‘Best Workplaces for Women’
Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) has won for the second time in the small company category for the ‘Best Workplaces for Women – GCC 2024’ list, recognising its commitment to fostering a workplace where all employees, regardless of gender, feel valued and empowered.
The newly bestowed ‘Best Workplaces for Women’ status follows closely on the heels of RAKTDA being certified as a Great Place to Work for the fourth consecutive year.
In 2024, RAKTDA’s diverse team is made up of more than 80 members representing 27 nationalities, with a nearly balanced gender ratio of 43 women to 39 men.
Rixos Hotels Becomes Certified Autism Centre
Rixos Hotels is a Certified Autism Centre (CAC), marking a significant step in the brand’s ongoing commitment to creating inclusive and welcoming spaces for all guests.
This achievement aligns with Dubai’s citywide accessibility initiative, reflecting the group’s dedication to making its hotels more accessible to autistic and sensory-sensitive guests.
The certified properties include Rixos Premium Dubai, Rixos The Palm Hotel & Suites, Rixos Bab Al Bahr, Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island, and Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi.
As part of the certification process, 80 per cent of its staff underwent comprehensive training aimed at enhancing their ability to support guests with autism. The IBCCES training equips team members with an understanding of autism and sensory sensitivities, empowering them to provide a more comfortable and supportive environment for all guests.
DXB opens first Assisted Travel Lounge
Dubai Airports has opened its first Assisted Travel Lounge at Terminal 2 of Dubai International (DXB), setting a new benchmark for accessible travel.
lounge is the first of its kind, designed to comprehensively address the diverse needs of People of Determination (POD), including those with autism and hidden disabilities, offering a safe, comfortable space within the bustling airport environment.