Blind and low vision travelers at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport now have access to Aira Explorer, a free app that provides on-demand visual interpreting assistance throughout the travel process at AUS.
Airport officials announced the new partnership in a June 18 news release.
How it works
Per the news release, the app connects travelers with a professionally trained visual interpreter and utilizes the traveler's smartphone camera and microphone to provide real-time assistance for a variety of travel-related tasks. Interpreters can:
- Describe surroundings
- Read signs and information displays
- Help with navigation throughout the airport, including curbside drop-off locations, airline check-in counters, security checkpoints, and gates
- Locate amenities such as dining options, shops, bathrooms and pet relief areas
The news release also states that the visual interpreters undergo extensive training and follow strict privacy and confidentiality standards. The service is free of charge and available 24/7, and calls are typically answered within seconds.
The app is available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, and can also be used with Meta AI glasses.
Something to note
Although mobile devices are not permitted throughout parts of the security screening process, travelers can utilize Aira Explorer up until they reach the security checkpoint and again once the security screen is complete.
Did you know?
Per the release, airport officials partnered with Austin Lighthouse for the Blind, Open Doors Organization, the Austin Chapter of the American Council for the Blind, the National Federation of the Blind Austin Chapter, and the Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired in June to test Aira Explorer in the Barbara Jordan Terminal and receive feedback from participants.
“Tools like Aira Explorer can help make air travel more accessible and independent for people who are blind or have low vision,” said participant Pam Chesser, president of the National Federation of the Blind Austin Chapter, in the release. “We appreciate the opportunity to partner with AUS and provide feedback that can help improve the travel experience for our community.”
