The Kempegowda International Airport (BLR Airport) has added another feather to its cap by becoming the first airport in India to achieve the prestigious Level-2 Accreditation under Airports Council International’s (ACI) Accessibility Enhancement Accreditation (AEA) programme.
This recognition places BLR Airport in an exclusive league of global airports setting benchmarks in inclusivity and passenger care. The AEA programme is the world’s only initiative that evaluates airports on their commitment to improving accessibility for persons with reduced mobility and persons with disabilities.
Inclusive Travel at the Core
Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), the airport operator, highlighted that accessibility at BLR is not just infrastructure-driven but reflects a philosophy of inclusive and seamless travel for all passengers.
The airport has already rolled out several pioneering initiatives:
Sunflower Lanyard Scheme for travellers with hidden disabilities.
India’s first sensory room, providing a calm space for neurodivergent passengers.
A dedicated accessibility committee and continuous staff training to ensure empathetic assistance and improved facilities.
“Accessibility is not just a measure of infrastructure, but a reflection of our belief that travel should be inclusive, seamless, and experiential for every passenger,” said Satyaki Raghunath, COO of BIAL.
Milestones Beyond Accessibility
The recognition comes just months after BLR Airport announced its first-ever profit since inception—a historic financial turnaround attributed to its strategic growth, sustainability initiatives, and operational excellence.
With this achievement, Bengaluru Airport not only cements its position as one of India’s premier aviation hubs but also emerges as a global leader in inclusive travel experiences.