By Kavita Mistry 
Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (BLR Airport), operated by Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), has become the first airport in India to achieve Level 3 in the Airports Council International (ACI) Accessibility Enhancement Accreditation (AEA) programme. The recognition highlights BIAL’s sustained efforts to create an inclusive, barrier-free environment for all passengers.
Advancing from Level 1 in December 2024 to Level 3 in November 2025, BLR Airport has demonstrated a rapid and comprehensive approach to integrating accessibility into every aspect of its operations. Guided by its Customer First philosophy and its “B-Included” initiative, the airport continues to embed accessibility across its infrastructure, digital interfaces, and service design.
BIAL’s “B-Included” initiative includes a range of measures to enhance inclusion. The airport has introduced new accessibility tools, an Assistive Device Policy for employees with disabilities, and a “Social Story” feature on its official website to support neurodivergent passengers and caregivers. It remains one of the few airports globally to employ Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) in customer-facing roles.
Key achievements under Level 3 include enhanced digital accessibility, partnerships with airlines for autism awareness, co-creation programmes with passengers and caregivers, training and sensitisation for airport staff and concessionaires, and the integration of universal design into all new developments.
Hari Marar, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Bangalore International Airport Ltd, said, “At BLR Airport, accessibility is adopted as a mindset that defines how we design, operate, and engage. We are pleased to be the first airport in India to achieve ACI’s Level 3 Accessibility Enhancement Accreditation, a reflection of our commitment to building a truly inclusive experience. Advancing from Level 1 to Level 3 in less than a year speaks to the passion and dedication of our teams, who have made inclusion a part of our culture, not just our compliance.”
In addition to infrastructure upgrades, BLR Airport has implemented digital inclusion tools such as the Government of India-backed UX4G Internet Accessibility Widget and a dedicated PRM/PwD section on its website. The airport also continues to conduct accessibility workshops, sensory room familiarisation sessions, and initiatives like the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard programme to foster awareness among staff and passengers alike.
With accessibility and empathy embedded into its operations, BLR Airport continues to set new benchmarks in inclusive aviation, reaffirming its position as one of the most forward-looking and passenger-centric airports in the country.
