Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru (BLR Airport) has created history by becoming the first airport in India to receive Level 3 Accessibility Accreditation. This recognition was awarded by Airports Council International (ACI) and shows the airport’s strong commitment to making air travel easier and more comfortable for passengers with disabilities.

This milestone also marks a big jump for BLR Airport, which moved from Level 1 in December 2024 to Level 3 in November 2025, an unusually fast progress in the global aviation sector.

Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), the operator of BLR Airport, has been focusing heavily on accessibility and equal access for all. The airport’s long-term vision is to ensure that every passenger, including those with reduced mobility, sensory sensitivities, or disabilities can move through the airport safely, independently, and with dignity.

At the centre of these efforts is the airport’s “B-Included” initiative, a programme designed to provide accessible infrastructure, supportive digital tools, and trained staff to make the airport experience smooth for everyone.

BLR Airport has introduced several digital tools to support passengers with disabilities.

A major addition is the “Social Story” feature on the airport website, which explains the airport journey in a simple, step-by-step manner. This is especially helpful for neurodivergent passengers, such as those with autism, who may need clear visual guidance.

The airport has also added the Government of India’s UX4G Accessibility Widget, which helps people with visual, hearing or mobility challenges navigate the website more easily.

The airport has worked closely with airlines, disability rights groups, and caregivers to improve services. These partnerships include awareness programmes on autism and activities designed to support passengers with reduced mobility.

BIAL has trained its employees, retail partners, and service providers to better understand passenger needs and offer empathetic assistance. This training helps ensure that staff can respond sensitively and professionally to travellers with different types of disabilities.

One of the unique aspects of BLR Airport is that it also employs Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) in frontline roles, making it one of the few airports worldwide to do so. These employees receive customised assistive devices and resources to perform their duties comfortably.

Accessibility is now a part of every new construction and renovation plan at the airport.

Some of the features include:

  • Accessible restrooms
  • Ramps and elevators
  • Clear wayfinding systems
  • Sensory rooms for passengers who need a quiet space
  • Support counters for PRMs and PwDs

These features help all passengers including the elderly, travellers with injuries, and parents with young children, navigate the airport more easily.

To support people with non-visible disabilities such as anxiety disorders, chronic pain, autism, or PTSD, BLR Airport implements the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard Programme. Passengers wearing this lanyard can signal to staff that they may need extra time, assistance, or patience.

By combining improvements in physical infrastructure, digital platforms, and staff training, BLR Airport is setting a new benchmark for inclusive travel in the country. The airport’s Level 3 accreditation is not just an award, it is proof of its ongoing commitment to ensure that every traveller feels respected, safe, and supported, no matter their ability.

With these developments, Bengaluru Airport has positioned itself as India’s most accessible airport, paving the way for other airports in the country to follow.