Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) has taken a significant step towards enhancing rail accessibility for blind and partially sighted passengers by launching a new smartphone app. This free app, developed in collaboration with Sight Loss Councils, aims to improve the overall travel experience for individuals with visual impairments.
Starting today, GTR is offering free access to the Aira Explorer guidance app at all 236 Southern, Thameslink-managed stations, and Great Northern stations. This initiative is a positive move towards creating a more inclusive and accessible transportation system for everyone.
Dave Smith, the Sight Loss Council Engagement Manager for Thomas Pocklington Trust, expressed his appreciation for GTR’s decision to introduce the Aira Explorer app across all their stations. He highlighted the importance of such technology in providing individuals with the confidence to navigate train stations independently, knowing that assistance is just a call away.
The Aira Explorer app enables blind and partially sighted customers to connect with a trained advisor via a video call. The advisor uses the customer’s smartphone camera to guide them through the station while communicating through a speakerphone. This hands-on assistance can make a significant difference in the way individuals with visual impairments experience rail travel.
Previously, the app was only available at 12 stations as part of a trial run led by blind and partially sighted volunteers. However, the positive feedback and success of the trial have prompted GTR to make the app accessible at all their managed stations. Carl Martin, GTR’s Accessibility Lead, emphasized the company’s commitment to ensuring that all passengers can utilize their services, regardless of their accessibility needs.
The Aira Explorer app will now be available at various South London stations, including Beckenham Hill, Catford, East Croydon, Elephant and Castle, Tooting, and more. This expansion of the app’s availability demonstrates GTR’s dedication to improving accessibility and inclusivity across their network.
By introducing the Aira Explorer app at a larger scale, GTR is setting a positive example for other transportation companies to follow. This innovative solution has the potential to transform the travel experiences of blind and partially sighted passengers, making rail journeys more manageable and enjoyable for everyone.
In conclusion, the launch of the Aira Explorer app marks a significant milestone in GTR’s efforts to enhance rail accessibility for individuals with visual impairments. This initiative not only improves the overall travel experience but also promotes inclusivity and equality within the transportation sector. With the continued support of organizations like Sight Loss Councils and Thomas Pocklington Trust, GTR is paving the way for a more accessible and accommodating railway system for all passengers.
