As 2024 comes to a close, the UK has witnessed significant advancements in transport accessibility, showcasing a growing commitment to inclusivity across various sectors. From aviation innovations to strides in electric vehicle design, this year’s progress highlights the collaborative efforts of government bodies, industry stakeholders, and advocacy groups. Here’s a look at some of the year’s most impactful developments.
Aviation Accessibility Takes Off
This year saw impactful advocacy from Rights on Flights, a campaign amplifying the voices of disabled passengers and pushing for greater inclusivity in the aviation sector. These efforts led to the launch of the Aviation Accessibility Task and Finish Group, led by Paralympian Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson. The group is addressing barriers in air travel for disabled passengers, with major players like AGS Airports and Glasgow Airport joining the initiative. This marks a significant step towards making air travel more inclusive and accessible for everyone.
Advancing Inclusive Electric Vehicles
The electric vehicle (EV) sector made notable progress with the unveiling of eVITA, next-generation electric wheelchair accessible vehicle (eWAV) concept by Motability Operations and CALLUM. This innovative design emphasises the importance of including disabled individuals in the EV revolution.
Meanwhile, the UK government’s Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate further highlighted the need for accessible EV infrastructure. However, challenges persist, particularly with the design of EV charging points, which still pose barriers for disabled drivers.
Improving Public Transport
Public transport accessibility improved in 2024 with the introduction of new bus regulations, alongside a £4.65 million investment, requiring audio and visual announcements. These measures are designed to ensure visually impaired and deaf passengers can travel with greater confidence. These changes represent meaningful progress toward a more inclusive public transport system.
Train accessibility also saw gradual improvements, with rail operators continuing efforts to roll out step-free access at more stations. However, many train journeys remain inaccessible to wheelchair users due to gaps between platforms and trains, highlighting the need for further investment in infrastructure and staff training.
Driving Independence with Private Accessible Vehicles
Private accessible vehicles continued to serve as a lifeline for many disabled individuals and families in 2024. Whether through the Motability Scheme or flexible WAV rental services like ours, these solutions provide reliable, flexible and inclusive mobility options. From short-term rentals for special occasions to long-term solutions for everyday needs, WAV rentals empower users with independence and flexibility. The growing demand for private mobility options underscores their critical role in building an inclusive transport ecosystem. Discover more about ORA’s achievements in 2024 here.
Advocacy and Collaboration
Advocacy efforts remained central to transport accessibility improvements in 2024. The Accessible Transport Policy Forum, a coalition of disability and passenger organisations, submitted an open letter to the Prime Minister, urging greater prioritisation of accessible transport policies.
Additionally, the National Centre for Accessible Transport (NCAT) hosted its first-ever Accessible Transport Summit, bringing together 200 disabled passengers and industry leaders. The summit addressed systemic issues in transport and reinforced the importance of collaboration in driving meaningful change.
Looking Ahead
While 2024 brought significant advancements, challenges persist—92% of disabled people still face barriers in transport (NCAT). From inaccessible EV charging infrastructure to gaps in public transport design, the journey towards full inclusivity is far from over.
However, the progress made this year demonstrates that positive change is possible through continued collaboration, innovation, and advocacy. Together, we can build a transport system that leaves no one behind.
Join Open Road Access and the Rights on Flights campaign for a crucial discussion which will shape the future of air travel. We need to hear from members of the community to create a plan for change and make accessibility not just a promise, but a necessity.