Event to highlight accessibility progress during Disability Pride Month
(Ontario, California – July 17, 2025) – Southern California’s Ontario International Airport (ONT) will host a public celebration of the 35th anniversary of the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) on Thursday, July 24, from 10-11 a.m. in the Terminal 4 baggage claim area. The event is part of Disability Pride Month and will honor the sweeping impact of the ADA in expanding access and opportunity for people with disabilities.
Signed into law on July 26, 1990, the ADA has fundamentally changed the travel experience for millions of Americans. At ONT, the law’s influence is visible throughout the airport, from its infrastructure and services to staff training and culture.
“Accessibility is fundamental to our mission of delivering a safe, seamless and welcoming travel experience,” said Atif Elkadi, Chief Executive Officer of the Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA). “The ADA has elevated expectations and outcomes across air travel, and we’re proud to honor that legacy while continuing to invest in an airport experience that serves all travelers with dignity and care.”
As part of the celebration, ONT officials will spotlight key improvements driven by the ADA, including:
- More Accessible Terminals: The ADA required airport terminals to become accessible to travelers with mobility, hearing, and vision impairments. At ONT, this has meant the installation of curb cuts, tactile signage, accessible parking and elevators, as well as lowered ticket counters and accessible restrooms. The airport is currently upgrading second-floor restrooms in both terminals as part of its TSA checkpoint expansion project.
- Wheelchair Assistance Services: All airlines operating at ONT are required by the ADA to offer wheelchair assistance from curbside to gate, including boarding and deplaning. These services are now standard and widely utilized, helping ensure mobility challenges do not impede travel.
- Enhanced Communication Systems: In compliance with ADA standards, ONT has invested in accessible communication technology, including high-contrast visual paging systems, large-font electronic displays and clear audible gate announcements. Current upgrades include a new paging system and improved terminal signage for easier navigation.
- Service Animal Relief Areas: The ADA’s recognition of service animals led to the creation of designated relief areas in airports. ONT has established “Barking Lots” near Gate 210 in Terminal 2 and Gate 410 in Terminal 4, offering travelers and their service animals convenient and accessible facilities.
- Staff Training and Non-Discrimination Standards: The ADA prohibits discrimination based on disability and requires reasonable accommodations in service delivery. At ONT, this commitment is supported through regular workshops and training for staff and airline partners to better understand, assist and communicate with passengers with diverse needs.
Travelers, community partners and local media are invited to attend the July 24 event to recognize this important milestone and celebrate the continuing efforts to make air travel more inclusive for all.