Deaf and hard-of-hearing passengers can now be served in Sign Language at the Bram Fischer International Airport.

Thabo Phateng, airport manager, said 26 customer-facing employees received training recently to help them learn basic Sign Language in order to communicate effectively with passengers from the Deaf community.

“We are committed to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for all passengers. We continuously work to improve accessibility and ensure that people of all abilities can travel with dignity, comfort, and confidence. Through staff training, accessible facilities, and a customer-focused approach, we strive to remove barriers and provide equal access to airport services for everyone, including persons with disabilities.”

Phateng said the decision to provide Sign Language to employees, was driven by their commitment to improve communication.

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“Effective communication is essential in an airport environment, and learning basic Sign Language equips our staff with the skills to better assist passengers, respond to their needs, and make them feel welcomed and valued during their journey.”

For Deaf passengers, the initiative means a more accessible and inclusive travel experience. It enables them to communicate more easily with airport staff, ask for assistance when needed, and feel confident that their needs will be understood and accommodated.

Ultimately, it enhances customer service, reduces communication barriers, and promotes a sense of belonging while travelling through the Bram Fischer International Airport.