Houston Airports marks White Cane Day with continued focus on accessibility

From AIRA to airport familiarization tours, Houston’s airports enhance independence and mobility for blind and low-vision travelers.

Oct 15, 2025

Every October 15, White Cane Day recognizes the independence and achievements of people who are blind or have low vision. The white cane represents both freedom and safety—a tool that enables navigation and a symbol that calls for greater public awareness and inclusion.

At George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU), Houston Airports works every day to ensure that passengers who are blind or have low vision can travel confidently and independently. A series of assistive technologies and programs are in place across both airports to provide meaningful support from curb to gate.

AIRA assistance

Through a partnership with AIRA, travelers who are blind or have low vision can access immediate video navigation assistance directly from their cell phones. AIRA connects users to trained agents who help them navigate the terminal environment in real time. The service is provided at no cost within all terminals at IAH and HOU.

Accessible websites

Houston Airports’ websites feature two assistive technologies—ReciteMe and AccessiBe—that make digital navigation accessible and intuitive.

• ReciteMe enables screen reading, page summarization, magnification, and dictionary tools. It also provides a screen mask for focus and closed-caption reading for videos.

• AccessiBe ensures that all web content meets color and contrast standards for low-vision users and includes audio descriptions for images and videos. Its Vision Impaired and Blind User Profiles offer customized adjustments for individuals with tunnel vision, glaucoma, cataracts, or degraded eyesight.

TTY and service support

TTY phone assistance is available for travelers at both airports through the Airport Operations Center. Blind or low-vision passengers can request help at any information desk or from roving customer service representatives wearing orange shirts.

Service animal relief areas are located in every terminal to support passengers traveling with guide dogs or other service animals. Houston Airports also offers airport familiarization tours for blind and low-vision passengers—an opportunity to experience terminal layouts and amenities before the day of travel.

Identification and training

As part of Houston Airports’ Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard Program, passengers who are blind or have low vision can choose to wear a sunflower lanyard. The lanyard signals to airport staff that the traveler may need additional time or assistance.

White Cane Day reminds us that accessibility is not a feature, it’s a standard. Houston Airports remains committed to building an inclusive, world-class travel experience for every passenger.