Travel significantly enhances the quality of life, serving as a powerful antidote to social isolation, particularly among our cherished older populations.

Our journey began with a dynamic initiative by the University of Ottawa LIFE Research Institute and the International Longevity Centre – Canada in 2016. This initiative culminated in a successful discussion forum on Age-friendly business, where transportation emerged as a pivotal focus. The subsequent forum in 2018, themed "Towards a World Adapted for Older Adults: Maintaining Quality of Life," further fueled our commitment.

Air Canada and Transport Canada reached out, sparking discussions on the challenges faced by passengers living with dementia, their travel partners and staff. A presentation in Las Vegas, global connections, partnerships with institutions like Carleton University, and the establishment of the Centre for Air Travel Research by the National Research Council of Canada all contributed to a groundswell of interest.

With the support of our first doctoral student, Valentina Primossi, and funding from Transport Canada, our focus intensified, backed by a systematic approach involving key stakeholders. The interdisciplinary nature of our endeavor, supported by the uOttawa LIFE Research Institute, emphasized the importance of diverse perspectives—from creators of the consumer experience to those regulating air travel. Our collaboration with IATA underscored the necessity for international exchanges, solidifying our commitment to a comprehensive approach.

Welcome to our transformative journey, where we delve into the heart of air travel to redefine accessibility and inclusivity. Our initiatives are grounded in a profound understanding of key factors that shape the travel experience.

At the core of our mission is the recognition that travel significantly enhances the quality of life, serving as a powerful antidote to social isolation, particularly among our cherished older populations. We acknowledge the shifting landscape from business to leisure air travel; a journey often shared with family or companions. In our awareness of the increasing prevalence of dementia and "invisible disabilities," we emphasize the need to maintain travel opportunities for all, fostering an inclusive and compassionate approach.

Our work shines a light on non-visible functional limitations, a critical yet often overlooked aspect in the air travel sector. Aligned with Canada's commitment to becoming barrier-free by 2040 through the Accessible Canada Act, we underscore the significance of collaborative efforts across diverse entities, navigating the intricacies of the cross-jurisdictional nature of air travel. 

As the pages of our story continue to unfold, other graduate students such as Ali Chiarelli, stakeholders, and colleagues are joining us on this meaningful journey as we strive to create a more inclusive and accessible air travel experience for all of us through our work with older adults and their travel partners. Together, let's redefine the narrative and offer options for all.