In a significant step toward inclusive travel, Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) has unveiled a pioneering facility designed specifically for passengers with reduced mobility. The airport has launched Mobility Assist — a first‑of‑its‑kind personalized transfer system that enables a smooth, mechanised transfer from a passenger’s wheelchair directly to the aircraft seat or through the terminal.
Mobility Assist was generously donated by Dr BS Ajaikumar of Healthcare Global Enterprises (HCG), in memory of his son, who lived with mobility challenges. The initiative reflects a deeply personal drive — transforming earlier hardships into a system that ensures dignity, safety, and comfort for travellers requiring assistance.
The service will be available on request, coordinated through airlines, offering end‑to‑end support for boarding, deboarding, and intra‑terminal movement. According to airport management, this approach reduces physical strain, minimizes risk of injury, and facilitates a smoother travel experience — both for passengers and staff.
Beyond this mechanical support, the airport has complemented the initiative with additional inclusive services: a “hidden disabilities” Sunflower Lanyard program, sensory rooms for neurodivergent travelers, and other facilities for passengers with non-visible disabilities. Notably, KIA has become the first airport in India to achieve Airports Council International (ACI) Level‑3 Accessibility Enhancement Accreditation — a global benchmark recognizing its commitment to accessibility and inclusive design.
This development marks a milestone in making air travel more equitable and respectful. It signals that accessibility and empathy are no longer optional extras — they are becoming fundamental pillars of a modern airport experience. For passengers with reduced mobility, this means travel with dignity and comfort; for the broader community, it’s a meaningful step toward truly inclusive infrastructure.
