BACKGROUND

It’s been nearly 35 years since the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). While airports have continued to keep pace with the changing requirements under this law, some airports have exceeded regulatory requirements to make their airport more accessible for all users through various guest experience programs, facility design choices, and amenities. There’s increasing recognition that improving accessibility enhances the airport experience for everyone, not just specific populations.

OBJECTIVE AND AUDIENCE

The objective of this synthesis is to describe the programs and practices of airports that enhance accessibility beyond legal and regulatory requirements. The audience for this synthesis is airport staff involved in administering and managing customer facing programs, airport planners and designers, and airport leadership.

STATUS The first draft is expected in July 2025