Air New Zealand 'open' to adding braille signage on planes

Air New Zealand says it is “open” to adding braille signage on planes following news that Star Alliance partner United Airlines is outfitting its fleet with the markings. The US airline said braille has been added to a dozen planes and expects to finish work on all its fleet, except for some regional jets, by the end of 2026. The braille signs will help visually impaired travellers to find their row and seat numbers, as well as the lavatories. An Air New Zealand spokesperson told Stuff Travel that while it doesn’t currently have braille signage, “it is something we are open to incorporating following engagement and discussion with the blind and low vision community in Aotearoa”. A spokesperson for Blind Low Vision NZ welcomed the news, saying it “is supportive of providers of transport modes increasingly prioritising accessibility, to improve the customer experience. We are working closely with Air New Zealand in relation to accessibility for blind, deafblind, and low vision people and appreciate their willingness to involve us in their process.” Blind Low Vision NZ estimate that more than 180,000 people in the country are blind, deafblind, or have low vision. That number is expected to increase to 225,000 by 2028 as the population ages.<br/>