A Journey of Continual Improvement for Halifax Stanfield International Airport
Halifax Stanfield International Airport has long been recognized for its exceptional passenger experience. With four million travellers passing through the airport in 2024, the airport is the gateway to Atlantic Canada and strives to ensure all travellers have a safe, accessible, and seamless journey.
As the first airport in Atlantic Canada and the first site in Nova Scotia to achieve Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification™ (RHFAC) Gold in 2019, Halifax Stanfield is now taking another step forward. On February 5, 2025, the airport announced its renewed RHFAC Gold certification, reinforcing the fact that accessibility is an ongoing journey, not a final destination.
What It Takes to Achieve RHFAC Gold
To earn RHFAC Gold, a site must score at least 80% on the RHFAC rating scorecard, which assesses meaningful access for people with disabilities. RHFAC evaluates the user experience holistically, considering individuals with mobility, vision, hearing, and neurodiverse needs.
Key features that helped Halifax Stanfield achieve this distinction in 2020 include a robust customer care program (and other programs such as therapy dogs through St. John Ambulance and its Autism Aviators program), versatile seating throughout the airport, accessible parking with covered and well-lit walkways, pet relief areas, universal washrooms, and automated doors into and throughout the terminal.
But Halifax Stanfield didn’t stop at that first Gold certification — it approached the recertification process as an opportunity to push accessibility even further.
Continuous Improvement in Accessibility
“Halifax International Airport Authority (HIAA) understands that accessibility isn’t just about reaching a milestone — it’s about raising the bar,” said Jessica Pettigrew, Communications and Marketing Advisor, HIAA. “Accessibility is at the core of our organizational values, and we lead with the goal of making our airport a welcoming space for everyone.”
The dedication to accessibility is not just a top-down initiative, but a collective effort. In June 2023, HIAA established an accessibility committee which includes Rachelle Garand, Air Terminal Project Coordinator, Airport Planning & Development, HIAA, and Nicole Blanchard, Airport Experience Manager for HIAA. Both are key drivers in the airport’s evolution to be inclusive of all who pass through its front doors.
“Everyone should have the same journey throughout the airport, regardless of ability,” said Nicole. “We’ve worked hard to ensure that all travellers, whether navigating the parking lot, checking in, or going through security, have access to the same amenities, shops, and restaurants. It’s about creating a seamless experience.”
Enhancing the Travel Experience for All
Rachelle, who has a background in in architecture and engineering, said it is important to have an inclusive approach to design. Many of the accessibility features in place are in keeping with maintaining RHFAC Gold, but the recertification process offered an opportunity to reassess.
“We wanted to make sure we were still meeting the highest standards,” Rachelle said, adding “We knew that the latest version of RHFAC (v.4) had stricter criteria, so we engaged with all the necessary shareholders to ensure that our improvements were up to par.”
Upgrades include visual fire alarms, tactile attention indicators at stairwells, contrast-painted stair nosing for safety, and hearing loops at key communication points to assist those with hearing aids or cochlear implants. The introduction of the Aira app offers navigation support for blind and low-vision travellers, complementing the Sunflower Program, which allows those with invisible disabilities to self-identify and receive additional support.
For Nicole, this work is personal. “I have a family connection to accessibility – my mom had multiple sclerosis and used a wheelchair at the end of her life. So, this work really brings things home; to actually make these changes not just because it’s necessary as far as compliance with regulations, but because it can make such a big difference for so many people’s lives.”
Guidance from Accessibility Experts
Kristen Habermehl, an RHFAC Professional and owner of Atlantic Accessibility Consulting, has worked closely with the Halifax Stanfield team since the lead-up to its first RHFAC Gold. She played a big role in helping the airport develop its accessibility plan and facilitated consultations with individuals with diverse lived experiences.
“Working with the team at Halifax Stanfield is an absolute privilege,” Kristen said. “Their focus remains on continuously asking the right questions to enhance the airport’s accessibility for all. This commitment ensures that anyone, regardless of their lived experience, feels welcome and valued.”
Rachelle, who worked closely with Kirsten throughout the process, praised her contributions. “Kristen helped us see the bigger picture, bringing us to the point where we could exceed the requirements for recertification and continue improving.” Rachelle was so engaged with the process of viewing design through the lens of accessibility that she decided to pursue the RHFAC Professional designation herself.
Whether for seasoned travellers or first-time flyers, Halifax Stanfield International Airport is proving that meaningful accessibility is about going above and beyond.
“At Halifax Stanfield, we don’t just want to meet the standards — we want to set them,” Jessica said. “And we’re proud to continue this journey to make our airport a better, more accessible place for everyone.”
Join RHF at the Accessibility Professional Network (APN) annual conference, where accessibility experts like Kristen Habermehl and Marnie Courage will explore innovative solutions for accessible and adaptable homes. APN2025: Building for People, is March 27 and 27, 2025, at the Vancouver Convention Centre with in-person and online attendance options. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and drive change in accessibility! Schedule and tickets.
