TRAVEL INDUSTRY TAPS NEW MARKET BY IMPROVING SERVICES FOR AMERICANS
WITH DISABILITIES

The Society for Accessible Travel and Hospitality's Annual
Congress Convenes this Week in Miami

Background

Traveling is stressful enough for the able bodied. But for a traveler with a disability, the prospect of flying or even renting a car can be daunting.

According to a study published last year, the nation's 50 million disabled would spend at least $27 billion annually-twice the current rate-if their travel needs were better met. This segment of the travel market has special requirements, but it may also be ripe for growth.

Car rental giant, Avis, recently launched a program designed to make renting a car easier for the disabled. Avis Access services are available at 70 locations throughout the U.S. Advocates for the disabled say companies that go out of their way to be accessible aren't just doing the right thing, but stand to benefit too.

SOME QUICK FACTS ABOUT TRAVELLERS WITH DISABILITIES:
71% of adults with disabilities (22 million people) have traveled at least once in the past 2 years
Travelers with disabilities spend approximately $13.6 billion annually
Almost half of people with disabilities who travel (46%) say they consult the Internet for accessibility information.

Interviews

• Steve Mydanick, Director, Corporate Affairs, Society for Accessible Travel & Hospitality (SATH)
• Scott Chesney, Marketing Consultant for Accessibility, Diversity Partners, LLC
• Joe Valenzano, President, CEO & Publisher, Exceptional Parent Magazine
• Scott Deaver, Executive VP, Marketing, Avis Rent A Car System, Inc.

VIDEO PROVIDED BY: Avis Rent A Car System, Inc.