In Aira’s 2024 Explorer Survey, we categorized common navigation tasks into three areas: describing, reading, and technical assistance. Describing “surroundings when navigating” is a top priority for 55% of survey participants.
Given this, we are exploring below five practical ways to enhance your navigation experience alongside Aira’s professional visual interpreters.
The Last 50 Feet: Finding Your Way
Imagine exiting a bus or car at your destination, only to find yourself puzzled about the location of the door. This is a common navigation challenge for many people. Aira’s visual interpreters can provide detailed descriptions of the surrounding layout, angles of travel while walking, and even the location of the door handle. This information can significantly reduce stress and frustration, making it easier to find your way.
The Accidental Drop-off: Aira’s GPS Advantage
Public transit and ride-sharing can sometimes lead to unexpected drop-offs. Fortunately, Aira visual interpreters have access to your GPS position at the start of your call, allowing them to access maps and your phone’s camera. This means they can provide assistance in finding bus stops, navigating transit centers, and more. To check if your transit system offers Aira services, simply tap the “Browse Access Offers” button on the home screen of the Aira Explorer app.
Crossing Streets: Aira’s Streetwise Insights
Before making a decision to cross the street, Aira’s visual interpreters can provide valuable information about the intersection. While they can’t predict when it’s safe to cross, they can offer a comprehensive description, including the number of lanes, whether the crossing is straight or slanted, and any obstacles at either curb. This information can help you make informed decisions and ensure a safer crossing.
Our default behavior for street crossing is to remain silent once you step into the road. However, you can request that the visual interpreter provide you with basic information during your crossing, such as information about veering, obstacles in the path, and the distance to the opposite curb.
Navigating Airports with Aira
One of the most popular uses of Aira is in airports. Our service is free to use at more than 60 airports in our Access Network. Once on the property, you can connect with a visual interpreter and proceed to the ticket counter or security checkpoint. Airports have become increasingly diverse, offering a variety of shops, restaurants, and special art and community events. Your visual interpreter can describe these attractions while you grab a snack for your flight.
Need to change planes? Simply call from the plane once it’s safe to use your phone, and our interpreter will guide you to your next gate. Another helpful tip is to have Aira take a photo of your luggage so that we can easily recognize it at baggage claim. Afterward, head to the ride pickup point. Whether you choose to use airport assistance or go it alone, Aira is here to support you.
Planning Your Trip
Visual interpreters can assist you even before you leave home. Want to know if there’s a train from the airport to your hotel? Which bus goes to the new stadium? Where the food court is at the mall, and what restaurants are there? Sit down with Aira and plan your trip. Save the details in your Aira folder so that other visual interpreters can access them when it’s time to travel.
Are you visiting a large medical complex? Ask your visual interpreter to take a look beforehand and plan your route. Our map and search skills are unparalleled.
It’s easy to understand why more than 50% of Aira Explorers report that they rely on professional visual interpreting to enhance their travel experiences.