SANTO DOMINGO.– Airports in the Dominican Republic are taking steps to strengthen programs for passengers with reduced mobility, seeking to improve the quality of service for them.
The Civil Aviation Board (JAC) held the first session of the National Facilitation Committee (CNF) of this year, in which the topic was directed towards passengers with reduced mobility (PRM), where a series of measures were detailed that will be implemented to improve safety for this segment of users.
The term Passengers with reduced mobility includes wheelchair users, those with physical, sensory or intellectual disabilities, older adults whose mobility has been affected by age and those impaired by temporary injuries.
At the meeting, representatives from Punta Cana International Airport explained the inclusive measures within the terminal, including ramps, elevators, adapted devices, and specialized assistance, all aimed at ensuring dignified and safe conditions. The session was chaired by Héctor Porcella, president of the JAC and the CNF.
Is it a right for users with reduced mobility to have a safe and independent journey?
Under the Air Carrier Access Act of 1986 (ACAA), people with reduced mobility have the right to receive quality, specialized service tailored to their needs. This law was designed with regulations that prohibit airlines from discriminating against disabled passengers and enshrines services such as wheelchair assistance at the airport as fundamental civil rights.
This law establishes "The Wheelchair Rule," ensuring safe accommodations for air travelers with disabilities who use wheelchairs. It was issued on December 17, 2024, by the DOT and published in 89 FR 102398. It went into effect on January 16, 2025, although individual requirements have different compliance deadlines, extending to June 2026 for training requirements.
Accessible environments and signage
The technical approach of the meeting included the intervention of Kerkdenny Medina, Accessibility and Design analyst of the JAC, who explained the requirements related to signage, guidance and support.
Their proposal underscored the need for accessible environments that allow autonomy, understanding of the airport process, and greater safety for this segment of passengers.
The event included the participation of authorities from the sector, who analyzed recent results of the National Air Transport Facilitation Plan, implemented during the 2025-2026 high season.
Preparations were also reviewed in anticipation of the Aviation Security Audit to be conducted this year by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), with an emphasis on compliance with international standards.
The National Facilitation Committee holds quarterly meetings to coordinate policies and procedures that facilitate the entry, transit and exit of passengers, aircraft and cargo, in accordance with current international regulations.
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