Boeing’s latest offering, the 787 Dreamliner, has been designed to overcome many of the accessibility frustrations that have plagued passengers in the past.
With the help of Oregon State University’s National Center for Accessible Transportation, Boeing analysed existing accessibility complaints and endeavoured to address them individually. People with mobility, sensory and cognitive disabilities were also encouraged to contribute ideas about the design of the new plane.
All of the Dreamliner’s lavatories, for example, will have interior and exterior door handles that are “more intuitive and enable access by passengers with limited hand agility”. There are also assist-handles in the lavatories as well as “touchless” taps, flushes and waste flaps.
The Dreamliner will also boast two wheelchair-accessible lavatories, designed to accommodate the particular needs that have been overlooked in many previous designs.
Other developments include the overhead luggage compartments which are now much easier to reach and larger closets to allow for personal wheelchair storage within the cabin.
“We analysed accessibility issues passengers face on today’s airplanes and incorporated advancements to better accommodate passengers of all ages and capabilities,” said Mike Bair, vice president and general manager of the 787 programme.
“These advancements, coupled with the Dreamliner’s larger windows, bigger carry-on bins, lower cabin altitude and cleaner air, will ensure that everyone enjoys a better flying experience on the 787.”
Boeing expects the 787 Dreamliner to come into service in 2008.
