In a significant step towards inclusive aviation, Bengaluru's Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) has unveiled a pioneering system designed to transform air travel for passengers with reduced mobility. This innovation, born from a personal story of hardship, aims to replace manual lifting with secure, mechanised assistance.
From Personal Pain to a Purpose-Driven Solution
The genesis of this initiative lies in the distressing experiences of Adarsh Ajaikumar, a young man living with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, a progressive genetic neuromuscular disorder. Adarsh, who relied on an electric wheelchair, frequently endured physical strain and emotional distress during boarding and de-boarding due to the absence of proper equipment at airports. The difficult sight of him being manually lifted highlighted a critical gap in accessible travel infrastructure.
Years later, his struggle has catalyzed tangible change. On Thursday, Kempegowda International Airport launched Mobility Assist, a first-of-its-kind personalised assistive transfer system. The equipment was donated by Dr. BS Ajaikumar, founder and executive chairman of Healthcare Global Enterprises (HCG), in memory of his son Adarsh.
"The contribution is deeply personal for us," said Dr. Ajaikumar. "Adarsh turned his pain into purpose, hoping others would never experience what he went through. Mobility Assist is an extension of his empathy."
How Mobility Assist Enhances Dignified Travel
The new system directly addresses the challenges faced by passengers like Adarsh. It provides a secure, mechanised method to transfer individuals directly from their wheelchairs to the aircraft seat, and also for movement within the terminal. This approach offers several key benefits:
- It significantly reduces the physical effort required from both passengers and airport staff.
- It minimises the risk of injury during transfers.
- It ensures a smoother, safer, and more dignified experience for travellers requiring assistance.
The service will be available on request through coordination with airlines, promising end-to-end support for those who need it.
Setting a New Benchmark in Passenger Care
Hari Marar, MD & CEO of Bangalore International Airport Ltd (BIAL), emphasised that accessibility is a mindset rooted in care and equity. "Mobility Assist strengthens our focus on travellers who need support the most and sets a new benchmark in passenger care," he stated.
This launch is part of KIA's broader commitment to inclusivity. The airport also runs the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard programme for passengers with invisible disabilities and has dedicated sensory rooms for neurodivergent travellers. Notably, KIA is the first airport in India to receive the Airports Council International (ACI) Accessibility Enhancement Accreditation at Level 3, underscoring its leadership in this domain.
The introduction of Mobility Assist marks a heartfelt and practical advancement, ensuring that the skies become more accessible and compassionate for every traveller.
