NEW DELHI: A busy corporate lawyer based out of Delhi, Amar Jain has never let blindness come in the way of his work but travelling poses a big challenge given that most websites of airlines and travel agents are far from accessible despite directorate general of civil aviation having detailed guidelines in place.
Jain’s complaint over the severe gaps in the booking process to the Court of Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities has resulted in a significant recommendation. DGCA has been asked to issue instructions to all airlines and travel agents to make their websites accessible and certified for all disabilities or else be prepared to face action.
The chief commissioner for persons with disabilities and secretary department of empowerment of persons with disabilties Rajesh Aggarwal said in the order that if airlines or travel agents fail to comply with the accessibility guidelines, then DGCA should levy fines for non-compliance. Also DGCA must not allow non-compliant agents to sell air tickets on any websites throughout the country. An action taken report has been sought within three months.
Speaking to TOI, Jain shared that despite being an accessibility professional who works on making apps and websites accessible, he has to depend on friends and family for booking his tickets. “This needs to change. The booking process should be accessible to PwDs having varying requirements based on their disability,” he added.
Reacting to the response of DGCA that the travel agents are under the control of the tourism ministry, the CCPD has said that “DGCA cannot abdicate their responsibility by saying that the travel agents are not under their control.”
DGCA has also been asked to submit a report on the action taken by it on its own motion for deficiencies in service by any airlines.
The court also directed that steps be taken to allow passengers with disabilities to indicate the special assistance required at the time of booking just like booking a wheelchair and thereafter they should be able to do web check-in minus the seats, which are disallowed for a particular disability.