In a significant move, United Airlines has introduced braille to its aircraft interior for ease of navigating the cabin independently to the visually impaired passengers.
“United has equipped about a dozen aircraft with braille markings for individual rows and seat numbers, as well as inside and outside the lavatories,” the airline said.
“Finding your seat on a plane or getting to the restroom is something most of us take for granted, but for millions of our customers, it can be a challenge to do independently,” said Linda Jojo, executive vice president, United. “By adding more tactile signage throughout our interiors, we’re making the flying experience more inclusive and accessible, and that’s good for everyone.”
In addition to adding braille, United is working with the National Federation of the Blind (NFB), the American Council of the Blind (ACB) and other disability advocacy groups to explore the use of other tactile navigational aids throughout the cabin such as raised letters, numbers and arrows.
The airline has already redeveloped its App to make it easier to use for people with visual disabilities and fitted entertainment screens with a wide range of accessible features.
United Airlines’ efforts are applauded by disability advocacy groups after the carrier began to roll-out braille to its aircraft interiors.
United expects to outfit its entire mainline fleet with braille by the end of 2026.