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Airport in Wisconsin becomes first in state to offer free access to ASL interpreting service

Published by: Yahoo News

Airport in Wisconsin becomes first in state to offer free access to ASL interpreting service

MILWAUKEE, Wis. (WFRV) – An airport in Wisconsin is now the first in the state to offer free access to an American Sign Language interpreting service.

Officials state that Aira ASL is a service that helps bridge the gap between the deaf and hearing, allowing travelers to connect on-demand with a professional ASL interpreter. Access to this service is now reportedly available for free at the Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport.

At MKE, we’re always on the lookout for the latest technology to make travel more accessible and welcoming for everyone. This addition ensures that all our travelers have the support they need for a smooth and enjoyable experience. Free services like Aira ASL are just another reason for Milwaukee travelers of all abilities to fly from our hometown Airport.

Airport Director Brian Dranzik

MKE is now said to be the first airport in Wisconsin to offer free access to this service. Airport officials add that the service can be used for a variety of situations, from help at the baggage check to getting information about flight statuses and ordering food in the terminal. The service is also said to be usable before a flight’s take off for real-time interpreting about any emergency instructions or pre-flight announcements.

Access to this free service comes after MKE became the first airport in either the State of Wisconsin or Illinois to offer free access in 2018 to Aira Explorer, an app to connect those who are blind or have low vision with trained visual interpreters.

Being able to communicate efficiently and independently while travelling makes a huge difference. Aira ASL is the perfect tool for this because it is on-demand and available whenever a communication barrier presents itself. We are proud to grow our partnership with Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport as they expand the ways travelers can get the information they need.

Henri Grau, Director of Deaf Community Engagement at Aira

In order to use the Aira ASL service, which can be used for calls by both deaf and hearing individuals, simply download the app to connect with a professional interpreter. The service is free while on MKE Airport property and is available 24/7/365 with no reservations required.

Access is a Human Right

Our mission is to remove barriers and make the world more accessible. Through remote video interpreting, Aira supports greater independence and more effective communication for both the blind and low-vision community, and the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community. 

Organizations who value accessibility partner with Aira to offer our services for free to their employees, students, or customers, fostering a more inclusive atmosphere for all. 

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