Oct. 2016 News

This past month I've been traveling a lot for ODO. I had the opportunity once again to visit Manila and train over 100 highly dedicated Philippines Airlines (PAL) staff. They gave me a renewed sense of pride in aviation. Sometimes I feel like we lose the pride and excitement in air travel in the US because the image always comes across as stressful. Not so in other parts of the world. I also sat on a round table at the Future Travel Experience in Las Vegas and saw so much excitement in future technology in aviation, but most of it was coming from abroad. Last week at the TTRA Marketing Outlook Forum in Ft. Lauderdale, I presented to Convention and Visitors Bureaus (CVB's) from all around the US, and I sensed a feeling of wonder in their eyes when I spoke about accessible tourism in their portfolio. I believe that the CVB's do see a future where access is a priority and that makes me feel great! My next destination: ODO's Universal Access in Airports, Nov. 14-16 at SFO. I look forward to seeing many of you there.

Happy Halloween!

Eric Lipp, Executive Director
Open Doors Organization

Countdown to UAIA
The 6th Universal Access in Airports (UAIA), featuring two full days of panel and round table discussions, kicks off with a cocktail party on Monday evening, Nov. 14, at Embassy Suites by Hilton San Francisco Airport South. If you haven't yet registered, it's not too late. The program looks amazing, and we expect a record turnout. UAIA offers not just a unique educational opportunity but also the chance to network with other aviation professionals dedicated to improving accessibility. Come and learn about the latest technology, catch up on regulatory changes, share what's happening at your company and get direct feedback from travelers with disabilities. For additional information, contact Katy Rosseland at 773.388.8839 or by email.
Final Agenda
Online Registration

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Rio Report by ODO's Candace Cable
A few weeks ago I returned from the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro which for twelve days played host to the 2016 Summer Paralympic Games, the first ever held in South America. This was my thirteenth Paralympic Games, nine as an athlete myself. This year I attended as a representative of the LA2024 bid committee with the goal of building relationships and learning how the Games are planned and executed. One outcome of the Games is that social change will happen. I say will happen with confidence, because every city that has the honor of hosting the Olympic Games must also welcome the Paralympic Games. Many systems in the host city, including airports and sporting venues, become more physically accessible than ever imagined. Examples of improvements to accessibility from Rio International Airport include tactile maps and guiding tiles for the blind (shown below). For more pictures and details about my trip please follow these links: Blog  Webinar