London Gatwick Becomes First UK Airport to Achieve ACI Accessibility Accreditation

London Gatwick First UK Airport to Earn ACI Accessibility Accreditation

London Gatwick Airport has made history by becoming the first airport in the UK to receive the Airports Council International (ACI) Level 1 Accessibility Enhancement Accreditation. This recognition highlights the airport's dedication to enhancing accessibility services through its comprehensive strategy, policies, and initiatives.

A Commitment to Accessibility

The Level 1 Accessibility Enhancement Accreditation is specifically designed to help airports measure, evaluate, and improve their accessibility management and culture. It is the only international assessment and accreditation program focused on airport accessibility for passengers with disabilities. This accreditation is part of a broader initiative aimed at providing continuous improvement in accessibility for all airports.

Anna-Ruth Cockerham, Accessibility Manager at London Gatwick, expressed pride in the achievement, stating, “We are delighted to be celebrated by ACI for our work in improving accessibility across London Gatwick for passengers. The accreditation recognizes our commitment to enhancing the experiences of disabled passengers.”

Ongoing Initiatives and Future Goals

Cockerham emphasized the airport's efforts to introduce various initiatives in recent years to improve accessibility and noted the importance of collaboration with industry partners and experts to drive further advancements. “We will continue to work towards our vision of being the airport for everyone, regardless of their journey,” she added.

London Gatwick, which is part of the VINCI Airports network, has been a leader in accessibility initiatives for several years. It was the first UK airport to open a sensory room for passengers in 2018 and pioneered the Sunflower Lanyard scheme, which supports individuals with hidden disabilities.

Enhancing Passenger Navigation

Recently, the airport launched a series of free, detailed access guides in partnership with AccessAble to help passengers navigate the airport more easily, safely, and confidently.

Olivier Jankovec, Director General of ACI EUROPE, praised Gatwick's achievement, stating, “We're delighted that ACI EUROPE member London Gatwick has received accreditation. The AEA program provides a continuous improvement path for airports regarding accessibility for passengers with disabilities. This accreditation exemplifies Gatwick's commitment to caring for vulnerable passengers.”

Investment in Future Infrastructure

In addition to its focus on accessibility, London Gatwick is investing in its long-term future. The examination phase of the airport’s planning application to bring its existing Northern Runway into routine use has concluded, with a decision expected in early 2025. The airport's low-impact plan aims to improve resilience, reduce delays, and significantly boost the national and regional economy by supporting trade, tourism, and job creation.