We are talking with Ryan Smith about the challenges of family travel, particularly with elderly members. It offers practical advice such as arriving early at the airport, obtaining gate passes for elderly passengers, and using the Sunflower Lanyard Program for discreet assistance. The importance of empathetic airport staff and the availability of assistance at airports, including information desks and accessibility features, are also emphasized.
Ryan Smith serves as Director of Communications and Government Relations. His team manages the marketing, social media, and customer experience for Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport. They also manage a volunteer program that consists of 20 volunteers and a few therapy dogs. These volunteers are the frontline workers that help passengers as they arrive at the airport. Their therapy dog program is designed to help those passengers that may experience anxiety with flying or being in large crowds with lots of noise. Gateway Airport is unique in that they are a much smaller and more convenient airport than your regular large hub airport. Providing this Just Plane Easy experience is important for us as many of their passengers are flying for the first time. They also love giving tours of the airport to groups looking to learn about aviation, and school groups teaching about the various careers that are available at and around the airport.
Links:
@GatewayAirport
00:00 – Intro
00:59 – Introducing Ryan Smith
02:28 – Airport Safety for the Aging
09:17 – Things to consider when traveling
13:57 – The Subtle Signs & Programs
18:16 – Other Ideas to Help Make the Airport Easier
21:18 – Where to Contact Ryan
