San Francisco (TAN): Global home-sharing platform Airbnb has introduced a process which requires hosts to upload images of their listing’s accessibility features so guests with disabilities can judge whether a particular accommodation is suitable for them or not.
Guests will be able to see the photos in a dedicated accessibility section on the listing page while making reservations.
With the new measure, the company intends to make accessibility information ‘as accurate as possible’ so that travel becomes more accessible for guests with limited mobility.
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For hosts, Airbnb will impart ‘simple and straightforward’ information with ‘easy tips’ on clicking and uploading clear images.
Airbnb’s Accessibility Product and Program Manager Srin Madipalli said: “As a passionate traveler with Spinal Muscular Atrophy, I know how valuable an image can be when evaluating whether a home will be suitable for me.”
“We have been working closely with our community, and conducted numerous focus groups with people with disabilities, to develop this new measure, as part of our ongoing global efforts to improve accessibility across the platform. We want to encourage as many hosts as possible to showcase their home’s accessibility, and sharing photos will help them do this,” he added.
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The move was applauded by organisations involved with disability.
Andrew Imparato, Executive Director of United States-based Association of University Centers on Disabilities, said: “We welcome this move from Airbnb to improve the accuracy of accessibility information for travelers with disabilities. Photos can be really valuable when assessing if a property will be right for your needs. We look forward to seeing Airbnb continue to improve accessibility across the platform.”
“The National Council on Independent Living (NCIL) advised Airbnb as the company was developing the accessibility filters to ensure they heard directly from our community. Photos can be extremely helpful for travelers with disabilities, so we welcome this new measure from Airbnb,” Kelly Buckland, Executive Director, National Council on Independent Living, said.
