Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru (BLR Airport) has scripted history by becoming the first airport in India to be awarded Level 2 of the prestigious Airport Council International (ACI) Accessibility Enhancement Accreditation.
The global accreditation recognises airports that go beyond basic compliance to create a truly seamless and dignified travel experience for passengers with reduced mobility (PRM), invisible disabilities, senior citizens, and families with young children.
Mr. Kenneth Guldbjerg, Head of ACI’s Accessibility Programme, handed over the certificate on 18th November and remarked: “BLR Airport has demonstrated exemplary commitment through staff empathy training, infrastructure upgrades, and continuous feedback from disability organisations. They are now a role model for the entire Asia-Pacific region.
”Key initiatives that helped BLR Airport secure Level 2 status include:
- 100% staff (including security, airlines, and ground handlers) trained under “Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard” programme
- Dedicated “Calm Room” sensory zone for neurodivergent passengers
- 120 hidden-disability lanyards and 65 wheelchairs are available free of cost
- Tactile paths, braille signage, and hearing loops across both terminals
- Real-time PRM assistance booking through BLR Pulse app in eight regional languages
- Partnership with 22 disability NGOs for regular access audits
Mr. Hari Marar, MD & CEO, Bangalore International Airport Limited, said: “This accreditation is not the destination but a milestone. We are already working towards Level 3, which includes advanced digital way finding and autonomous mobility solutions.”Disability rights activist Ms. Shanthanu Bhardwaj, who was part of the audit team, welcomed the development:
“For the first time, I travelled without anxiety. The staff proactively asked if I needed assistance instead of waiting for me to ask. This is how dignity feels. ”With over 90,000 PRM passengers assisted in 2024–25, BLR Airport’s achievement is expected spur other Indian airports to accelerate implementation of the Accessible India Campaign and Harmonised Guidelines issued by the Ministry of Civil Aviation.
(Source: Official press release, Bangalore International Airport Ltd, 19 Nov 2025; Press Trust of India, 19 Nov 2025; Deccan Herald, 20 Nov 2025; Airports Council International website)
