Taking Inclusion to the Skies: SHRM Foundation Drives Awareness of Air Travel Challenges for Workers with Disabilities
SHRM and the SHRM Foundation, in collaboration with Microsoft, released a report today on the concerning lack of accessibility with airline travel, actively impacting talent development and employee productivity.
October 23, 2024
ALEXANDRIA, Va. – In recognition of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, SHRM and the SHRM Foundation, in collaboration with Microsoft, released a report today on the concerning lack of accessibility with airline travel, actively impacting talent development and employee productivity. It’s vital for HR stakeholders to be more cognizant of their employees who utilize wheelchairs and the impact it could have on their personal well-being, productivity and professional development.
The CDC reports 61 million people in the U.S. live with a disability, including 5.5 million who use wheelchairs for mobility. Despite their growing participation in the workforce, accessibility issues in air travel remain a persistent barrier and concern for professionals with disabilities. The 2022 Air Travel Consumer Report revealed the 10 largest U.S. airlines lost, damaged, or destroyed approximately 1,008 wheelchairs each month, limiting the ability of workers with disabilities to participate fully in business travel.
“People with disabilities contribute invaluable talent and perspectives to the [...]