How easy is it for someone with blindness to go through customs?
I am a totally blind traveller. I have always flown within the US for the last four years, usually getting assistance from airport staff and sky caps. Whether they are airline employees or airport employees, I know not.
However, I am set to travel abroad for the very first time. I would like to know if there might be any accessibility problems I might encounter with the declaration forms, or using any kiosk that might not have built-in screen reader support. I plan on buying a few things, like souvenirs and food, outside of the US, and into the US. I know that in the US, all public entities are required to make things accessible under the Americans with Disabilities Act, but I don't know about Mexico or Canada, two places I am travelling to. What things might make it easier for me to clear through customs?
Best Answer
I'm not sure if you were asked to remove your Aira device at security in the US. This may be something to bring up with staff when checking in, and again in line since electronics need to be scanned and you want to ensure your device remains undamaged.
Regarding Canada only:
Sadly, Canada currently only has 3 provinces with Accessibility Laws (British Columbia, Ontario, and Nova Scotia). Canada is set to introduce the new law this spring. Despite us being behind the times, this does not mean you will not receive assistance at travel points.
This government site on Accessible Travel claims that all transportation systems are opening up accessibility. (www.otc-cta.gc.ca)
Canada's transportation system is open to all. More and more, the companies that move people across Canada are finding ways to meet the needs of travellers with disabilities.
If you're not sure who handles what, give us a call at 1-888-222-2592 or by TTY at 1-800-669-5575. Or send us an e-mail at info@otc-cta.gc.ca. We'll point you in the right direction.
On the Finding Information link on the Accessible Travel page:
The Personnel Training for the Assistance of Persons with Disabilities Regulations require transportation companies to train their employees and contracted personnel on how to provide services to persons with disabilities.
The standards should be respected everywhere, but they are not a service guarantee. Your best approach is to ask your transportation company for details about how it will meet your needs.
This site also suggests getting in touch 48 hrs in advance with any transportation companies about any needs or assistance (early seating, travelling with/without support person, etc). According to Air Canada and West Jet require 48 hrs notice and to confirm when you check in. Via Rail merely says to approach staff.
The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) site further supports Jim MacKenzie's experience: (www.catsa.gc.ca)
Visually impaired passengers
If you would like assistance, please inform the screening officer when you arrive at the checkpoint. Upon request, supervisors at major Canadian airports are available to provide you with verbal and physical guidance through all steps in the screening process.
Visually impaired passengers and their service animals can pass through the walk-through metal detector either separately or together. Or, you can choose to bypass the walk-through metal detector and use alternate screening options, such as the use of a hand-held metal detector, a full body scanner or physical search.
Though not relevant since you're flying in, I went a bit further to see if the Canada Border Services Agency has special services and zilch. Other than a TTY phone number, I could not find anything.
Pictures about "How easy is it for someone with blindness to go through customs?"
How do blind people navigate airports?
Dozens of airports, including Philadelphia International, offer free use of a service called Aira, where users connect with an \u201cagent\u201d either by using glasses equipped with a camera or through a smartphone app that accesses the user's camera.How does a blind person fly?
The Blind Pilot Mode enables those who are blind or visually impaired to fly most of the It's Your Plane (IYP) supported aircraft from pre-flight to shut down by using their voice.Airport and Travel Tips for Blind, Low Vision, and Visually Impaired People
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