Not all disabilities are physical, and even many of those are not visible, which can sometimes cause problems for people trying to access facilities designed to try to ease problems for those who have such conditions, which is why Aena developed their own status and badge to make it easier for those with such conditions to transit through their airports a little easier than normal.
This is not a new concept, many airports around the world already provide this service, and whereas Spanish airport staff in the main were trained to recognise these symbols, there were some who were oblivious to the needs of these passengers, and so, the Aena hope to bridge that gap of ignorance with their own system.
What is a hidden disability?
A hidden, or invisible disability is a physical, mental or neurological condition that is not visible to the naked eye, but that can restrict or hinder a person’s movements, senses or activities. Invisible disability or hidden disability is therefore a broad term that encompasses a variety of disabilities or challenges that are not easily discernible, mainly neurological in nature.
Many of these disabilities bring with them sensory overstimulation. Sensory overstimulation can negatively affect people with certain conditions, such as autism spectrum disorder, anxiety disorders, sensory sensitivity, or attention problems. It can cause stress, anxiety, fatigue, and make it difficult to concentrate and focus.
Now, let’s imagine an airport: full of lights, screens, people, and a long list of factors that undoubtedly contribute to this overstimulation. The airport experience is often exhausting in itself, and a disability only adds fuel to the fire.
To address this situation, some airports have implemented measures to reduce sensory overstimulation, such as providing quiet rest areas, using softer lighting, offering assistance for people with special needs, and providing clear and concise information on security procedures.
Aena and the invisible disability badges
The Spanish network of Aena has wanted to go a step further by creating a badge for people with invisible disabilities. In this way, this emblem indicates that the person may require support, assistance or simply understanding and a little more time during any activity at the airport.
By showing this badge, you will have access to the dedicated security control for families and people with reduced mobility (PRMs) at the airport. Security checks can be the worst nightmare for a person with a disability or their families, as airport security procedures such as body scanners and baggage checks can create additional stress and anxiety.
This new badge will only be valid on the day of the flight, and it will not be necessary for the traveller to wear it visibly throughout their stay at the airport.
At the moment, the airports with the necessary infrastructures and personnel to make use of the badge are Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas, Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández, César Manrique-Lanzarote, Gran Canaria, Ibiza, Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat, Málaga-Costa del Sol, Palma de Mallorca, Seville, Tenerife South and Valencia.
In the event that the airport of departure does not have a specific security control for families and PRMs, access to the general security control will be facilitated, as far as possible.
For more information, and to apply for your hidden disability badge, Aena has a dedicated webpage, which you will find at https://serviciostelematicos.aena.es/distintivo_di/#/, where there is the option to view the page in English.
The post Hidden disability badge at Spanish airports appeared first on Spain Today – Breaking Spanish News, Sport, and Information.
Other Articles
