Phoenix, Arizona – In its continuing effort to improve accessibility at the Airport, Phoenix Sky Harbor has created Areas of Rescue Assistance. These areas would be used by people in wheelchairs or those with limited mobility in the event of an emergency. The Areas of Rescue are well-marked and most often located in the landings of stairwells.

If a terminal building were evacuated at Phoenix Sky Harbor, passengers might not be able to use the elevators. They might be instructed to use the nearest set of stairs to exit the building. Areas of Rescue Assistance were created for those who aren't able to walk down the stairs.

During an emergency, firefighters would know to check the Areas of Rescue for people who need to be transported or need assistance down stairs. In addition, each area is equipped with an intercom system that provides two-way communication with the Sky Harbor Communications Center. There are instructions at each site telling visitors what to do in case of an emergency. In addition, there are Braille enhanced “You are here” maps in these areas. When the Communications Center is contacted via intercom from one of these locations, the dispatchers can automatically identify the location of the caller. The intercom allows the person in need of assistance to talk to the Communications Center dispatcher.

This new amenity has caught the attention of Fred Brown, Commissioner on the Phoenix Mayor’s Commission on Disability Issues. “Phoenix Sky Harbor is at the forefront of the aviation industry when it comes to safety issues for people with disabilities,” said Brown.

The Area of Rescue Assistance project started in Terminal 2. There are now 5 such locations behind security in the gate areas of Terminal 2. There are also ramps from the lobby to the exits of Terminal 2. Areas of Rescue are currently being planned for Terminal 3. When the project is finished, there will be 4 Areas of Rescue in Terminal 3. They will be located on balconies extending from stairway landings, off of level 2 in the lobby area. In Terminal 4, there are six in the stairwells off the lobby area of level 3 (pre-security) and several also available behind security.

The areas are well-marked with a sign showing a wheelchair symbol. This project goes above and beyond Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements. Other airports have contacted Sky Harbor because they’re interested in installing similar Areas of Rescue Assistance.