In travel news for December 13, 2023 we talk about British Airways making travel easier for hearing impaired travelers.
Key Points
- British Airways partners with SigncodeUK for Deaf, hard-of-hearing travelers.
- Signed video content to enhance travel experience.
- Commitment to accessibility in Air Travel.
British Airways is taking a significant step towards inclusivity by partnering with SigncodeUK, a leading organization committed to providing equal access to information for the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community. This collaboration aims to enhance the travel experience for these customers through signed video content.
Enhancing Travel Accessibility
The partnership introduces a range of signed videos offering vital travel information. These videos, accessible through links or QR codes, cater to the needs of Deaf and hard-of-hearing travelers, ensuring they receive personalized messages in sign language. The content spans from pre-travel information available on ba.com to onboard safety procedures.
Empowering Travelers with Information
The first video, featuring British Airways’ Deaf Customer Experience Agent provides an in-depth look at the airline's services, including booking, airport experience, and onboard amenities. This initiative aims to empower customers by offering information to make informed travel decisions.
A second video, set to launch by the end of 2023, will focus on onboard safety features and procedures. This video will also be available on ba.com and through QR codes accessible to cabin crew, offering an alternative to the face-to-face safety briefings already provided to Deaf or hard-of-hearing customers.
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
The Director of Sustainability at British Airways emphasizes the airline's pride in partnering with SigncodeUK to enhance accessibility. The collaboration reflects their commitment to ensuring a seamless and dignified travel experience for all customers.
The Managing Director at SigncodeUK expresses her pride in working with British Airways to increase awareness and accessibility for the Deaf community. The partnership represents a significant step in British Airways' journey towards being an accessible airline for all.
Expanding Linguistic Accessibility
In recognition of the diverse needs of the Deaf community, British Airways and SigncodeUK are offering videos in both British and American Sign Language, with plans to include other languages including Spanish. This expansion is part of the airline's broader strategy to enhance its BSL video content.
Additional Accessibility Efforts
Beyond the SigncodeUK partnership, British Airways supports Deaf and hard-of-hearing customers through a minicom system and a partnership with SignLive for British Sign Language in customer engagement centers. Through SignLive's Video Relay Service, customers can connect with a BSL interpreter, facilitating communication with the airline’s accessibility team.
Final Thoughts
British Airways' collaboration with SigncodeUK marks a pivotal moment in making Air Travel more accessible and inclusive. By providing crucial information in sign language and expanding its accessibility services, the airline demonstrates its commitment to ensuring that all customers, regardless of hearing ability, can travel with confidence and comfort. This initiative sets a standard for other airlines to follow, fostering a more inclusive and welcoming travel industry.
