Travelling should feel possible for everyone. However, for people with a disability, a trip often starts long before the flight, with planning, questions, and a lot of worry. At YFC, our goal is to help every traveller move through the airport safely, comfortably and as independently as possible. 

Over the last few years, the YFC team has implemented changes to make the airport more comfortable and easier to navigate for people with visible and invisible disabilities, which was spearheaded by Perry Dyke, YFC’s Manager of Human Resources and Administration. 

We are honoured to highlight that Perry received the Accessible NB Award from Ability NB during its 70th anniversary celebration, on October 23, 2026. The award recognizes individuals and groups who have improved access for people with a disability in New Brunswick by creating better access to the physical environment, technology or products. 

“This award validates all the work we have been doing over the years,” Perry says. “It also helps us move toward a barrier-free travel model and shows the public that we’re making a serious effort to make sure everyone is accommodated.”

A plan brought to life in collaboration with the community 

All the work started with a conversation—Perry first reached out to Ability NB for guidance on YFC’s Accessibility Plan, then asked for a full accessibility review of the airport. Since then, YFC has formed an Accessibility Advisory Group, which includes community organizations that represent people with lived experience, to help turn the recommendations into action. 

“Perry recognizes the importance of listening to people with disabilities and involving them in the process,” says Wendy Scott, Director of the Accessible NB program. “It’s a great example of the ‘Nothing Without Us‘ principle in action.” 

Small changes you’ll notice at YFC 

• Lowered towel and soap dispensers in public washrooms 

• Larger, updated wheelchair fleet 

• Tactile Walking Surface Indicators (TWSIs) at the top of the entrance stairs for people who are blind or have vision loss 

• GoodMaps app for accessible navigation through the terminal and parking lots 

• Hidden Disability Sunflower program to help the YFC team recognize invisible disabilities 

• Indoor pet relief areas for service animals 

• Disability awareness training for public-facing staff 

Practice before you fly 

Some of our most rewarding work happens before anyone boards a plane. Our team has been holding travel rehearsals for people travelling with service dogs, walking through the airport with them, so the real trip feels familiar.  

“When you see the difference in someone’s anxiety level before and after, it really makes you realize we are making a difference and you want to do more,” says Perry. “What I’m most proud of is the airport-wide accessible culture we’re developing.” 

That culture now reaches across the whole airport and is noticeable to travellers. Perry regularly receives feedback from passengers by phone and email, thanking the team for everything—from upgraded wheelchairs to security staff meeting them at the aircraft and walking them through the terminal when needed. 

A final congratulations to Perry on this well-deserved recognition and thank you to him and everyone who works diligently to make travel at YFC accessible for all! 

Planning a trip and need support? Visit our Accessibility page to learn more about the services available at YFC.