Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – In a notable achievement, Puerto Vallarta’s Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Airport has received the prestigious “Inclusive Tourism” distinction from the federal government, specifically the Ministry of Tourism. This accolade is awarded to businesses in the tourism industry that successfully meet the required standards for accommodating individuals with disabilities.
As part of the 2023 Tourism Quality Seals, Distinctions, Certificates, and Accreditations program, the federal department certifies tourism service providers that incorporate accessibility criteria into their daily operations. This ensures that both national and international visitors with disabilities can enjoy tourist destinations.
The recognition received by Puerto Vallarta Airport aims to promote equitable treatment for all individuals, including national and international employees, as well as passengers.
Miguel Cravioto Sámano, the communications manager of Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico (GAP), which includes Gustavo Diaz Ordaz Airport, emphasized the importance of this distinction in achieving inclusion objectives.
The certification evaluation confirmed that the airport meets the standards and indicators of inclusion. These include facilities that facilitate access and mobility for individuals with disabilities, signage, and services provided by trained personnel to ensure quality service for passengers.
“To achieve this distinction, we sought expert guidance and worked closely with a consultant to address the five key points set forth by the Federal Ministry of Tourism, which is responsible for granting and evaluating the distinction. These points encompass the accessibility of both external and internal facilities, rooms and restrooms, signage, and information and assistance services,” stated Cravioto Sámano.
He also mentioned that the minimum passing grade to obtain this badge is 85, but the Puerto Vallarta airport terminal exceeded expectations. “We proudly obtained it with a score of 91.76,” he pointed out.
Although the “Inclusive Tourism” recognition was delivered digitally last Wednesday, an official ceremony is scheduled to take place in a month to formally present the distinction.
Cravioto Sámano emphasized that attending to all passengers is a priority for GAP. “The airports of Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico are committed to passengers with disabilities, seeking to provide them with the best travel experience,” he said. He also mentioned that in collaboration with Teletón, they established “Gap Blue,” the first permanent international program to assist passengers with disabilities at airports.
“Our objective is to ensure that passengers experience an ‘ADA’ journey throughout the airport, which stands for Accessible, Dignified, and Agile. By fostering a culture of inclusion and providing knowledge and assistance tools tailored to passengers’ specific needs at each stage of their journey – before, during, and after travel – we contribute to the creation of a society without barriers,” concluded Cravioto Sámano.
