Bengaluru’s KIA Becomes India’s First Airport to Earn ACI Level 2 Accessibility Recognition

Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first airport in India to receive the ACI Level 2 accreditation for accessibility. This recognition highlights the airport’s commitment to ensuring that persons with disabilities (PwDs) and passengers with reduced mobility can travel with greater ease, dignity, and independence.

The accreditation was awarded after evaluating various measures taken by the airport to improve accessibility. These include specially designed infrastructure, improved signage, wheelchair-friendly pathways, and enhanced staff training to assist passengers with different needs. The recognition places Bengaluru’s airport on par with global standards where inclusivity in travel has become a growing priority.

For Tier-2 cities in India, this development serves as an important example. Passengers from smaller cities often travel through major hubs like Bengaluru before connecting to international destinations. Accessible infrastructure ensures that people with disabilities from these regions are not left behind in the push for modern travel experiences. It also builds confidence among families and elderly travelers who often face challenges while navigating large airports.

The move has also been welcomed by disability rights groups who see it as a step toward inclusive travel in India. With air travel becoming more common, the need for accessible airports has grown significantly. Bengaluru’s recognition could encourage other airports across the country to adopt similar initiatives, ensuring that inclusivity becomes a standard practice rather than an exception.

This achievement by Kempegowda International Airport marks a turning point for Indian aviation. By prioritizing accessibility, it not only enhances passenger experience but also sets a benchmark for other airports to follow. For travelers from across India, including those in Tier-2 cities, this milestone represents progress toward a more equal and supportive travel environment