New Aviation Training Initiative Aims to Improve Travel Experience for Persons with Disabilities

In line with the INCLAVI Workplan, Haaga-Helia, the project’s lead partner, initiated the INCLAVI Curriculum preparation in February 2024, a process in which all the consortium members are engaged in developing training content.

By Martti Asikainen, 01/12/2023

The aviation industry is taking a significant step forward in accessibility with the launch of INCLAVI (INCLusive AVIation), an EU-funded project developing an accredited online learning platform to better equip airline and aviation staff to serve Persons with Disabilities (PwD).

Following extensive research throughout 2023, the INCLAVI consortium has identified key challenges faced by passengers with disabilities and developed a framework for a comprehensive training curriculum that promises to transform how the industry approaches accessibility.

“Across recommendations, while we were conducting interviews, a common theme emerges, and it is the necessity of practical, inclusive, and regularly updated training, utilizing various delivery modes, engaging real-world scenarios, and involving stakeholders, including PwD, to ensure a holistic and adaptable learning experience,” says Jos van der Sterren, Program Lead Research and Graduate School at BUAS.

Research Reveals Training Gaps

The consortium conducted an impressive 130 expert interviews, administered two online surveys with staff and students from educational institutes, and performed extensive literature and desk research to understand the current landscape of accessibility in aviation.

One key finding revealed that while many aviation staff receive initial and refresher training on supporting passengers with disabilities, the delivery methods are often inadequate. Training sessions are frequently “squeezed” between other activities, limiting their effectiveness.

The research also identified 18 key occupations that interact with PwD during their passenger journey, highlighting critical points where improved training could significantly enhance the travel experience.

Building on Existing Frameworks

Rather than starting from scratch, INCLAVI will build upon established training frameworks, such as those recommended by the European Civil Aviation Conference (ECAC). However, the project aims to complement and extend these existing programs in critical areas.

The INCLAVI platform will focus on developing innovative and inspiring delivery methods and pedagogies, adapting specialized content to create modular, flexible training that meets the specific requirements of different staff roles and industry dynamics.

The ultimate objective of the INCLAVI online learning platform is to bridge existing gaps in aviation training, enhancing the industry’s ability to provide respectful, dignified, and inclusive service to all passengers. By addressing the identified shortcomings in current training approaches, the project aims to drive meaningful change in air transport accessibility.

As the project moves forward, the consortium will develop and implement the curriculum based on their research findings, potentially transforming how the aviation industry approaches accessibility training and ultimately improving the travel experience for millions of passengers with disabilities.

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Inclusive Aviation (INCLAVI)
2022-2025