Smartvel has launched TravelAble, a new accessibility solution designed to help passengers with reduced mobility (PRM) better understand and navigate the complexities of air travel through personalised, step-by-step guidance.
TravelAble centralises fragmented accessibility information from airlines and airports into a single, structured content model, delivering tailored guidance based on each traveller’s profile - including mobility equipment, battery type, and travel context.
The platform organises information across every stage of the journey, from pre-departure planning through to arrival, providing clear answers on what assistance to request, what to expect at security and boarding, and how equipment will be handled throughout the trip.
It also translates technical IATA Special Service Request (SSR) codes - such as WCHR (wheelchair ramp), WCHS (wheelchair steps) and WCHC (wheelchair cabin) - into plain language, helping travellers better understand the level of support available.
“Accessibility in travel is still far too complex and fragmented,” said Iñigo Valenzuela, CEO of Smartvel. “TravelAble is about turning that complexity into clarity, giving travellers confidence through personalised, reliable information, while helping airlines and airports deliver a more consistent and inclusive experience.”
Research conducted during the development of TravelAble highlights ongoing challenges for travellers with accessibility needs:
• 40 per cent are unsure whether airport infrastructure will meet their needs
• 33 per cent struggle to find clear accessibility information before travelling
• 28 per cent do not know if they will be able to board with their mobility equipment
Security checks, boarding procedures, and airport navigation were identified as the most stressful points in the journey.
TravelAble addresses these issues by providing structured, journey-based guidance aligned with official airline and airport procedures, continuously monitored to ensure accuracy.
Designed as a flexible content layer, TravelAble can be deployed across websites, apps, and digital booking environments as a widget, enabling airlines and travel platforms to integrate accessibility guidance directly into the customer journey.
The platform includes more than 100 structured content categories and supports over 8,000 possible requirement combinations, ensuring highly personalised outputs for each traveller.