How Istanbul airport is enriching the lives of the disabled community

Having a father with severe MS, the dread of travelling and navigating airports was an anxiety-inducing experience that overshadowed family holidays. Still now, as a diabetic, travelling on my own is fraught with worry. Whether it’s locating an elusive loo or having to explain through frantic gesticulation to foreign X-Ray security, that my insulin pen isn’t an elaborate drug smuggling operation; airport anxiety roulette is sure to add extra stress. But iGA Istanbul Airport is different. The tender nuzzle of a resident therapy dog on his rounds melts any last lingering concerns. 

The depth of understanding originates from within the staff and the experiences of a former senior executive travelling with an autistic child. I’m reminded of a scene I witnessed at Gatwick on my way here – a mother trying desperately to soothe her crying autistic child. Sprawled out on the terminal floor amid the chaos and noise, she was at risk of being trampled by the oncoming stampede. 

As I step into the secluded Special Passengers Service Room straight after security, how the mother must have longed for a safe haven like this. The sensory room with padded walls airside takes crisis-aversion a step further. Not only a sanctuary for autistic and noise sensitive passengers, but a place for those with prosthetics to remove their appendages in privacy and comfort, as opposed to fumbling in a cramped toilet cubicle. There’s even the option to rent a wheelchair at “Wheelshare points” if the need arises. 

This is a completely holistic operation, for those who need it, created by those who need it. Evident in the fully accessible Cafe Yanimda. With a wheelchair height counter, enclosed quiet dining area, chairs that aid Parkinson’s sufferers and large signs for those with learning difficulties and visual impairment. All run by employees with disabilities and profits going towards disability charities. It’s forward thinking that just makes sense. 

The measures taken are simple and inexpensive but make a huge difference. Especially for clients with young families and children with disabilities, iGA Istanbul Airport endeavours to take the stress out of travelling. From silent airport status, dedicated family security checkpoints, kids’ entertainment areas on every level to cold and hot water fountains throughout. “We have our Diamond area where you can get a Michelin star meal and we have cafes where you can get a bite to eat for cheap. We cater to everyone, so why would we deny a mother who needs to give her baby a hot drink, this for free?” Yalım says. Compassion and kindness are key to the success of his operation, fostering an inclusive environment for dignified and accessible air travel for all. 

But this doesn’t come without its challenges Hilal explains. “It’s all about balance”, addressing the challenges of one disability can sometimes create difficulties for another. She points to the raised “tactiles” on the floor that aid visually impaired passengers find their way. Usually there would be four in a row but these raised tiles can cause people with walking difficulties or wheelchairs potential hazards. 

So throughout the terminal they’ve installed a single tile track that leads from security all the way to the gates as a guided route for those with sight impairment. No need for assistance, while causing minimum obstruction. The airport guide app also gives audio directions to anywhere you need to go, enabling maximum independence.

The alternative: being pushed in a wheelchair, even if they can walk, straight from security to the wheelchair waiting area, no chance to browse the shops or enjoy the restaurants. Everything is expertly considered to enable an autonomous airport journey.

Hilal is an inspiring woman, her passion palpable, always striving towards more innovative practices.“The more people we meet, the more we CANNOT say we’re accessible. As the more we find out, the more we need to keep improving.” Her dedication and the entire team’s commitment to accessibility sets iGA Istanbul Airport as a benchmark for global standards in accessible travel. This groundbreaking facility blends futuristic technology with human spirit, compassion, and kindness. A model we should aim to emulate worldwide to continually improve the future of travel.