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Virgin Atlantic launches IFE for visually impaired passengers

1 Dec 2017 by Mark Caswell
Virgin Atlantic has launched IFE technology for visually impaired passengers

Virgin Atlantic has become what it says is the first airline to offer accessible entertainment for customers with sight loss.

The carrier worked with UK tech company Bluebox Viation Systems and Guide Dogs for the Blind to offer an iPad-based platform available on all of its flights.

The technology features audio descriptions, large type, and consistent layout and controls, with consideration for impairments including blindness partial vision and sensitivity to brightness.

Representatives from Guide Dogs for the Blind provided recommendations for the initial design, and tested the platform over a year to ensure it met their needs.

Virgin also offers familiarisation days for visually impaired customers, allowing visitors to get used to aircraft on-board systems before they begin their trip.

Commenting on the news John Welsman, Policy Business Partner for Travel and Transport for the charity Guide Dogs, said:

“We know that something as simple as an in-flight entertainment system with voice overs and audio descriptions will help passengers with sight loss to enjoy flights just like anyone else on board.

As someone with sight loss who flies quite often myself, I think it’ll be wonderful to access entertainment and information on Virgin planes without needing to ask for help. Not having to call for cabin crew, or disturb fellow passengers around me who might be sleeping, will be great.

“The charity Guide Dogs works hard to make sure that people who are blind or partially sighted are not left out of life, and so we’re delighted that Virgin Atlantic is helping passengers with sight loss to be more independent on board their planes by providing accessible in-flight entertainment.”

virginatlantic.com

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