London’s Gatwick Airport has launched a new airline lounge in its North Terminal for travellers who require special assistance.
Developed with an investment of £2m, the special assistance area features bespoke chairs and soft furnishings and seeks to offer a quiet environment to disabled passengers to relax before boarding their flight.
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Wilson James operates as the passenger services provider at Gatwick Airport.
Wilson James Airport Operations director Mark Hicks said: “The new special assistance area in the North Terminal is a demonstration of the commitment across the Gatwick community to providing a positive service experience for passengers requiring assistance while travelling.
“The newly opened space will provide passengers with a calmer, comfortable seating environment whilst in our care during their journey through Gatwick.”
Located adjacent to the North Terminal’s Departure Lounge, the new area can be reached after going through the special assistance security lanes.
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By GlobalDataSpanning an area of 56m², the space can accommodate up to 90 people, more than double the capacity of the existing area.
Approximately 19% of the UK population have a disability and 11% a hidden disability. About 7% of the population avoids air travel because of their disability.
To improve the flying experience for disabled people, Gatwick is teaming up with disability groups to help ensure that the airport makes its services accessible to everyone.
Gatwick Airport Terminal Operations head Andy Pule said: “Gatwick is committed to providing passengers who have a disability or reduced mobility of any kind with the support and services required to ensure their time at the airport is as comfortable as possible and this remains a key area of focus for the airport.”
