Satair, an Airbus Services company, has signed a five-year global distribution agreement with Airchair to supply the Airchair I and Airchair II on-board wheelchair solutions to airlines worldwide. The partnership marks the first collaboration between the two companies and underscores the growing industry focus on enhancing accessibility for passengers with reduced mobility.
Airchair I has been in service since 2007, while the newer Airchair II meets the latest accessibility requirements set by the US Department of Transportation (DOT). Both models are lightweight, compact, and designed for ease of handling, enabling passengers with disabilities to access aircraft lavatories more comfortably during flight.
The agreement positions Satair to broaden its cabin equipment portfolio with a specialised product that supports evolving regulatory standards. For airlines, it offers a streamlined pathway to strengthen accessibility compliance and improve the overall passenger experience.
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Sarah McOnie, Business Development Director at Airchair, said the partnership will help expand global access to the company’s solutions. “This collaboration not only broadens our reach but reinforces our mission to make air travel more accessible and inclusive for passengers with reduced mobility,” she said.
Matt Jessee, Head of Business Development at Satair, added: “By ensuring global availability of Airchair’s innovative products, we are supporting airlines in meeting regulatory requirements while helping to deliver a more dignified travel experience for all passengers.”
With regulators placing increased emphasis on in-cabin accessibility and passengers demanding more inclusive travel experiences, airlines are accelerating the adoption of compliant, passenger-centric cabin equipment. Partnerships such as the Satair–Airchair agreement highlight the industry’s shift toward solutions that support comfort, dignity, and independence for travellers with reduced mobility.
FAQs
1. What does the Satair–Airchair agreement cover?
The agreement grants Satair global distribution rights for Airchair I and Airchair II on-board wheelchair solutions.
2. Why is Airchair II significant?
Airchair II is designed to fully meet the latest US DOT accessibility regulations, helping airlines comply with evolving standards.
3. How do Airchair products support passengers with reduced mobility?
They are compact, lightweight aisle wheelchairs that allow PRM passengers to access aircraft lavatories more comfortably during flight.
4. How does this partnership benefit airlines?
It simplifies procurement, ensures global availability, and supports regulatory compliance for in-cabin accessibility.
5. Why is accessibility gaining attention in the aviation industry?
Regulators and passengers are increasingly prioritising inclusive travel experiences, driving airlines to adopt improved accessibility solutions.
