Montréal, 21 October 2021 – The International Partners for Aviation Development, Innovation and Sustainability (iPADIS) and Montreal-based Kéroul have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to formalise their collaboration on enhancing accessibility to air transport for persons with disabilities.

Under the MoU, the two organizations will pool their respective expertise and experience in working with States and air travel and tourism entities to formulate or update national policies, regulations, operational standards and procedures for the handling of passengers requiring assistance. This includes accessibility guidelines, assessments and related training programs for airports, airlines and other entities in the value chain to facilitate the seamless flow of passengers within airport terminals, airline boarding areas and other locations.

“iPADIS is of the strong opinion that the long-term sustainability of the air travel industry and its continued acceptability depend on the sector being sensitive to its social responsibility and responsive to the needs of all users. In this regard, our common vision is for the establishment of international standards and procedures to ensure that all persons with disabilities, including a rapidly aging population in many parts of the world, have access to the same opportunities for travelling for business or pleasure as any other passenger, anywhere in the world. We believe this to be a matter of social importance and an economic imperative” emphasized Dr Olumuyiwa Benard Aliu, Founding President of iPADIS.

“We are excited at the prospect of collaborating with iPADIS in developing practical, customized and effective accessibility solutions throughout the travel supply chain. Our solid track record and our involvement with international sister organizations have strengthened our ability to support regulators and industry stakeholders worldwide in providing enhanced travel opportunities for persons with disabilities and the elderly,” added Isabelle Ducharme, Chair of the Board of Kéroul.

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iPADIS is an independent, international non-governmental organization (NGO) of public and private partnerships. It operates on a not-for-profit basis to lead effective advocacy for positive change in the global aviation industry. It actively promotes the development of international civil aviation in an innovative, sustainable and socially responsible manner.

Kéroul is a non-profit organization created in 1979 to promote and develop accessible tourism and culture, primarily through communications, consulting and lobbying activities. It is a key consultant to the Ministry of Tourism of the Government of Québec (Canada) and partners with other ministries, including Transport. It manages a unique Government program that enables targeted tourism businesses to access financial support for transforming or improving facilities and services for the disabled.

For more information:
Name: Denis Chagnon
Office: +1 (438) 580 7807
Email: dchagnon@ipadis.org
Website: www.ipadis.org

Name: Kéroul
Office: +1 (514) 252 3104
Email: infos@keroul.qc.ca
Website: www.keroul.qc.ca