Bahrain national carrier Gulf Air has become the first airline in the Middle East and Asia to introduce Braille entertainment guide for visually impaired passengers to make their journey more enjoyable.

The facility has been introduced across Gulf Air’s entire network, the airline said in a statement.

The special Braille-scripted entertainment guide assists visually impaired passengers in choosing from over 42 hours of hosted audio, over 21 channels - from the Holy Quran recital to Opera music to popular Arabic, Asian, Jazz and Country music, it added.

“Gulf Air is proud to introduce this new facility for visually impaired passengers as we strive to provide enhanced inflight experience for every segment of our customers,” said Gulf Air chief executive officer Samer Majali.

“It’s a simple, pragmatic initiative that respects visually impaired passengers’ needs  yet, I am glad we were able to think ahead and thus earn the honour of being the first airline in the Middle East and Asia and probably in Europe to introduce this facility for our visually impaired customers,” he remarked.

Gulf Air chief commercial officer Kyle Haywood said, "Visually impaired passengers are an important segment of the customers, and it’s only natural to provide them with a guide that facilitates browsing, choosing and enjoying their preferred music."

"Our in-flight Entertainment (IFE) team has been working for the past few months with Braille Europe (Kenilworth) - a well known company in the UK specializing in Braille products - to introduce this new facility on our flights."

"I am sure this will make their journey much more comfortable and enjoyable. Our cabin crew will be on hand to assist them should they require," he added. 

To make the listening experience more interesting and entertaining, the audio channels offered by Gulf Air are hosted by popular RJs such as John Brunning of “Mungo Jerry” band, Howard Glassman, a household name in North America, Larry Gogan of Jukebox Gold and Matt McKay, host of Alternative Hits.-TradeArabia News Service