[NJTechDiv] PDX becomes second airport in the world to have new accessibility

[Mario Brusco]

PDX becomes second airport in the world to have new accessibility 
technology.
https://www.kgw.com/article/travel/app-helps-disabled-at-pdx/283-87208777-b2dc-4160-b1b3-a50e7d69a688

Author: Casey McCabe, Published: 5:17 PM PST January 10, 2023, Updated: 
5:17 PM PST January 10, 2023.

The app GoodMaps Explore will help those with a range of disabilities 
navigate PDX with ease and safety.

GoodMaps executive Mike May introduces his accessibility technology at 
the Portland International Airport on Tuesday, Dec. 10.


PORTLAND, Ore. — A new partnership between the Port of Portland and 
GoodMaps is rethinking how travelers get around the Portland 
International Airport.

The app called GoodMaps Explore is free for download on Apple and 
Android devices, and uses audio and visual instructions to help users 
find a variety of locations.

The app aims to give travelers with special needs greater agency and 
control over their travel experience. It has various settings that can 
accommodate individuals who are blind, deaf or neurodiverse. The app can 
also help just about anyone locate their gate, a bathroom, or even the 
closest place to catch a bite to eat with ease. The app also offers 
detailed instructions in English, Spanish, or French.

"We live in a world of print signs so sighted people at least have an 
alternative," said Goodmaps executive Mike May. "Now I have an 
alternative tool or technique that allows me to navigate independently."

May, who is an innovator in GPS technology, was blinded when he was 3 
years old. He was at PDX promoting the partnership and was interviewed 
by KGW.

"I go in an airport, I might wanna stop and get a coffee," May said. 
"It's up to me I don't have to wait around for someone to show me how to 
get there."

GoodMaps Explore was launched at PDX with the support from a variety of 
public and private entities. The Port of Portland’s Accessibility 
Committee, the Oregon Commission for the Blind, Portland State 
University, Washington State School for the Blind, Southwest Airlines, 
and United Airlines all came together to make the effort possible.

PDX is now the second airport worldwide to partner with GoodMaps.

"Indoor navigation is the new frontier, and the Portland airport is only 
the second airport where we now have these detailed maps," said May.

GoodMaps makes use of mapping technology and predictive AI to provide 
realistic models of environments. There are no cameras, antennas or 
hardware. It works just like Google Maps.

"The purpose really is to have navigation indoors like people are used 
to outdoors," says May. "I want to put in my gate I want to know what's 
along the way and I want to get there independently."

GoodMaps Explore can give users at PDX the precise locations of 
terminals, restrooms, restaurants, stores, water fountains, charging 
stations, baggage claims and numerous concourses.

There are plans to expand both the number of languages, and information 
offered through the app in coming years. GoodMaps is also looking to 
expand service to more airports and public spaces in the future.