United Airlines’ Executive Vice President and Chief Customer Officer, Linda Jojo, has highlighted that tasks such as locating a seat or finding the restroom—often taken for granted by most passengers—can be difficult for travelers with visual impairments.
The airline’s latest initiative aims to transform that experience, enabling blind and low-vision passengers to move through the cabin without counting overhead bins or relying on others for help.
The initiative goes far beyond meeting legal requirements. Its purpose is to transform the flying experience so that travelers who are blind or have low vision can move through the cabin without relying on counting overhead bins, seeking assistance from fellow passengers, or feeling lost.
To make this possible, United has worked closely with the National Federation of the Blind (NFB) and the American Council of the Blind (ACB) to strategically install Braille and tactile signage in the most essential locations—overhead bins, lavatory doors, and other key points inside the aircraft—ensuring independent navigation and a more seamless journey for every passenger.
So far, about a dozen of United’s 900+ mainline aircraft have been retrofitted, and all new aircraft ordered under the “United Next” growth plan will come with the Braille signage pre-installed. The airline expects its entire mainline fleet to feature the new system by the end of 2026.
More Than A Dot-By-Dot Upgrade
United’s vision goes beyond simply adding Braille. The airline is exploring additional tactile navigational aids—raised letters, numbers, and arrows—so that travelers who do not read Braille can still navigate confidently. This is critical because fewer than 10% of legally blind Americans read Braille.
The airline has also made broader accessibility improvements. Its mobile app now offers higher contrast, more spacing around graphics, and better screen reader compatibility. Its in-flight entertainment system features closed captioning and audio descriptions, making the experience more inclusive for visually impaired and hearing-impaired travelers alike.
When Small Changes Mean A Lot
For visually impaired travelers, these updates bring an immediate sense of relief. Mark Riccobono, President of the NFB, explained that “the flight experience is often frustrating because so much information is only communicated visually. Adding Braille increases independence and confidence.”
Chris Danielsen, also from the NFB, noted that airlines have historically done only the bare minimum for compliance. United’s decision to collaborate directly with advocacy groups represents a step forward in treating accessibility as a shared priority rather than a regulatory checkbox.
Blind travelers interviewed by media outlets described the change as a signal that their presence on flights is being acknowledged, respected, and supported—without making them feel like an inconvenience.
Challenges And What Lies Ahead
Despite the promising rollout, some challenges remain:
- Braille Literacy: Many visually impaired passengers do not read Braille, so tactile arrows and raised print will be equally important.
- Logistical Hurdles: Aircraft retrofits require scheduling during maintenance windows and compliance with safety regulations.
- Human Factor: Beyond signage, staff training is crucial to ensure that cabin crew understand and can support the unique needs of visually impaired passengers.
United is working through these hurdles step by step, ensuring each implementation phase is tested and refined.
Looking Forward: A Hopeful Take
The move sets a powerful precedent. When a major airline integrates accessibility features as part of its fleet-wide plan, competitors and regulators often follow suit. This ripple effect could lead to a future where accessible design is standard across aviation.
Imagine boarding a plane, running your fingertips over the overhead bin number, and instantly knowing where you belong. Imagine turning into the lavatory without hesitation or needing assistance. For millions, this is more than convenience—it is dignity.
Conclusion
United Airlines’ decision to add Braille and tactile signage is a small but transformative step toward making air travel equitable. By collaborating with advocacy groups and committing to a full-fleet rollout, the airline is sending a message that accessibility is not an afterthought—it is part of the journey. If other carriers follow suit, this initiative could mark a turning point in making air travel universally welcoming.
Sources:
CNN
Euro News
PR News Wire
Aviation Pros
Wheel Chair Travel
