By David O’Hara, ALTOUR ACCESS Director
Travel should be a liberating experience – a chance to explore, connect, and grow – regardless of ability. In 2022, an estimated 18.6 million Americans reported travel-limiting disabilities, and U.S. travelers with disabilities spend nearly $50 billion annually on travel. With companions, their total economic contribution is estimated at over $100 billion per year. Despite this, many face persistent barriers that limit their travel options.
Disabled travelers encounter numerous challenges at every stage of the travel experience. Complex terminal layouts, long distances between gates, inconsistent staff training, and inaccessible flight announcements create difficulties at the airport. Onboard, wheelchair access is limited, personal mobility aids are often damaged or mishandled, and restrooms on many planes are inaccessible, forcing travelers to take inconvenient routes or even dehydrate themselves to avoid using them. More than half (54%) of travelers with disabilities have been offered a hotel room that did not match the room they booked, or that lack accessible features like showers (81%) or beds (52%) at appropriate heights.
At ALTOUR, we believe that every journey matters, especially for those who travel with disabilities. This isn’t just about meeting regulatory requirements or ticking a box – it’s about removing systemic barriers that prevent equal access to travel, and doing so with genuine care, thoughtful planning, and creating experiences that are both empowering and accessible.
Why Accessibility Matters
Accessibility in travel isn’t just a legal or ethical obligation; it’s a core component of delivering exceptional service. When our employees or clients encounter obstacles, whether in transportation, accommodation, or even digital platforms, it impacts their confidence, safety, and overall experience. At ALTOUR, we recognize that inclusivity is a journey. We’re committed to constantly learning, adapting, and innovating so that our services not only comply with standards but exceed expectations.
A Personal Perspective
My personal journey has given me firsthand insight into the challenges faced by travelers with disabilities. Living with dwarfism and managing other health conditions has taught me that accessible travel goes far beyond physical accommodations. It’s about understanding each individual’s unique needs and ensuring that every element of the travel experience, from booking the trip to arriving at your accommodation, is designed with care and attention to detail.
I remember struggling with travel arrangements that simply weren’t designed with my needs in mind. Small inconveniences like unsuitable seating or lack of clear communication regarding accessibility options, quickly turned an exciting trip into a source of stress. I was once stuck in an airport all night because I missed the connection, the gate was too far, and the departure time was too soon. These experiences – and the many stories I have read about other travelers, who have suffered from humility, drove me to advocate for better solutions and to push for a comprehensive approach to accessible travel.
We understand that disability is not a limitation; it’s a different way of experiencing the world. By embracing this perspective, we can create travel solutions that truly empower our clients and colleagues. The travel industry can ensure that everyone, regardless of physical ability, enjoys a journey that is safe, comfortable, and tailored to their specific needs.
How ALTOUR Is Making a Difference
At ALTOUR, our approach to accessible travel is built on three key pillars: advocacy, innovation, and empathy.
- Advocacy Needs:
We ask the tough questions to address barriers, push for improvements, raise awareness, handle complaints and report issues. From the perspective of a Travel Management Company (TMC), we challenge our partners when their promises of great service aren’t met. - Innovative Solutions:
Leveraging the latest in technology and data analytics, we develop tools that provide real-time insights into travel accommodations. Our systems are designed to flag potential issues before they become obstacles, ensuring that every element of your journey – from booking to arrival – is seamless. We continuously partner with industry experts to incorporate new innovations that enhance accessibility without compromising on quality or efficiency, delivering continuous improvements in navigation and comfort for travelers with disabilities. We are technology-driven, with a human overlay – meaning, while our core operations rely on innovations in AI and automation, we will always provide an intuitive human touch to everything we do. - Empathy in Action:
Accessible travel is as much about heart as it is about logistics. Our teams are trained to handle every request with sensitivity and respect, ensuring that each traveler feels seen and valued. We go the extra mile by offering tailored solutions and proactive, live support, so that our employees and our clients never feel like they’re just checking off a box on a form. We take the time to listen and learn from our clients; every traveler has a unique story and unique requirements, and we treat them as such. Whether it’s specialized seating arrangements, assistance with boarding, or digital accessibility features, we ensure that our travel solutions are designed to accommodate a wide range of needs.
Looking Ahead
The journey toward truly accessible travel is ongoing, and there is always more we can do. We’re constantly reviewing our policies, listening to and implementing feedback, and refining our processes to ensure that every travel experience is as inclusive as possible. Our mission is to simplify the complexity of connecting people so they can represent their organizations in the most impactful way, and that mission extends to every traveler. We ensure that our employees and clients who travel with disabilities receive the same high-quality, personalized service that has become synonymous with the ALTOUR name.
If you’re a traveler, an industry partner, or a team member looking to experience travel that truly cares about your needs, join us on this journey. Let’s redefine accessible travel as a commitment to excellence and inclusion for everyone.
By embracing advocacy, innovation, and empathy, ALTOUR is paving the way for a future where every journey is not only possible but also truly enjoyable for all.
Contact us today to learn more about our accessible travel solutions and discover how ALTOUR can transform your journey into a seamless, empowering experience.
