GTR has written to Richard to inform him that they have extended the free use of the Aira Explorer app which is enhancing the accessibility of their stations for blind and partially sighted passengers to all 236 of their Southern, Thameslink, Great Northern and Gatwick Express managed stations.
The Aira Explorer app allows blind and partially sighted customers to place a video call with a trained advisor who looks through the customer's smartphone camera to guide them around the station on speakerphone.
For instance, they might help them to locate a member of staff for assistance, guide them to their platform, to a ticket office so they can purchase a ticket or a shop to grab something to drink before their train arrives.
The innovative app is a step towards creating an inclusive travel experience, empowering all passengers to navigate the rail system with confidence. GTR selected Aira Explorer app to partner with after reviewing a range of different apps and seeking feedback from blind and partially sighted passengers customers.
Up until now, the app had been available to use at only 12 stations across our network as part of a trial spearheaded by blind and partially sighted volunteers at the Sight Loss Councils and national charity Thomas Pocklington Trust. Now the trial has successfully concluded, GTR are rolling it out to the rest of their network.
Blind and partially sighted passengers are urged to download the app Aira Explorer from the Apple Store or Google Play on their mobile device.
