Sydney Airport embraces new tech for blind travellers

Aria’s technology works via an app on any iOS or Android device. The user beams live footage to an Aira agent, who then provides immediate and personalised visual information to assist the user through a specific task or location.While participants normally sign up to a plan and pay for Aira’s service by the minute, Sydney Airport – Australia’s busiest – has agreed to cover the cost to support visually impaired people when they visit the airport.Sydney Airport CEO Mr Geoff Culbert said the move was part of his organisation’s broader commitment to continually improve accessibility.{{quote-A:R-W:400-I:2-Q:The trial we recently completed at T2 Domestic was a game-changer for the participant and that’s something we’re really excited about” -who:Geoff Culbert, Sydney Airport}}“This new service will significantly improve the airport experience for the visually impaired community. The trial we recently completed at T2 Domestic was a game-changer for the participant and that’s something we’re really excited about,” he said.Vision Australia CEO Mr Ron Hooton said the technology made the world more accessible for the more than 380,000 people in Australia who are blind or have low vision.“Airports can be difficult environments to navigate for people who are blind or have low vision. Becoming an Aira Access location means the community can visit Sydney Airport without worrying if there will be somebody there to help th make their way to check in, find their gate or access any other of the airport’s facilities,” Hooton said.Aira claims to be the world’s fastest growing assistive technology company. Its technology was officially launched in Australia – the first market outside of the US – in May last year through a partnership with Vision Australia.