1. Abstract of Dissertation presented to COPPE/UFRJ as a partial fulfillment of the
requirements for the degree of Master of Science (M.Sc.)
ACCESSIBILITY OF TOURISTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS TO THE AIR
TRANSPORT
Rafael Teixeira de Castro
April/2010
Advisors: Ronaldo Balassiano
Respício Antônio do Espírito Santo Jr.
Department: Transportation Engineering
The difficulties faced by people with special needs in air transport are
countless. Many authors have investigated this issue; however, only few
researches were dedicated to observing, perceiving and listening to these
individuals’ needs. The main purpose of this study is to analyze the accessibility
of people with special needs in air transport as a factor for social inclusion. By
interviews and interaction with people with special needs, “flowchart models”
were developed with the objective to understand the real difficulties imposed by
the terminals. The methodology used was a qualitative research based on
questionnaires and interviews to people with mobility impairments in partnership
with NGOs in the city of Rio de Janeiro. The findings point to the essentiality of
airport planners, designers and managers hear the voice of these costumers in
order to provide the service they wish to have which is guaranteed by the
legislation. Listening to these people, learning about their differences and how
to deal with them, is of great value for the development of accessible airport
facilities.