The feeling of soaring above the clouds in an airplane,
overlooking the vast expanse of our beautiful world below, is an experience
that almost anyone would cherish. But the path to that feeling, that journey,
isn’t always the same for everyone. And until recently, I wasn’t even sure the
airline industry noticed.
As a frequent traveler, I’ve become accustomed to the
routine advertisements and promotions airlines show during flights. More often
than not, they're generic, maybe even a bit stereotypical, often featuring the
"typical" traveler: business professionals, honeymooning couples, or
adventurous backpackers. As a person with a disability, I've often felt left
out of the picture. Until my recent flight with Virgin Atlantic.
Change in Altitude, Change in Attitude
From the moment I entered the aircraft, it was clear that
Virgin Atlantic wasn’t just offering a journey through the skies but a
transformative experience for everyone aboard. The screens lit up with a new
promotional video, but unlike any I’d seen before.
There was an elderly couple slow dancing, a queer family
laughing with their children, people of different sizes, races, abilities, all
laughing, sharing, and cherishing moments. It was the diversity of our world,
but in the confined space of an airplane cabin, and it was beautiful.
Not Just an Ad
But it wasn’t just in their promotional materials. From the
magazines in the seat pocket to the cabin crew’s interactions, the inclusivity
was palpable. The staff had been trained not only in traditional customer
service but in cultural sensitivity and awareness.
I watched as a cabin crew member effortlessly switched
between languages, engaging passengers from different parts of the world. The
in-flight entertainment system even had options for those with visual or
hearing impairments.
Why This Matters
It might seem like a small gesture to some. "It's just
an advertisement," some might say. But representation matters. When you’re
flying 35,000 feet in the air, a simple acknowledgment of your existence can
mean the world.
It signals to everyone aboard that they're seen, that
they're valued. That no matter who you are or where you come from, the sky
isn't just a place for the few, but for everyone.
Looking Ahead
As I stepped off my Virgin Atlantic flight, I felt a sense
of hope. If a global airline can shift its focus to represent and cater to the
rich tapestry of humanity, what’s stopping other industries?
I’m excited for a future where inclusive marketing isn’t the
exception but the norm. Where businesses understand that embracing the vast
diversity of humanity doesn't just make ethical sense, but business sense too.
So, here’s to Virgin Atlantic for showing us that the sky
isn’t the limit when it comes to inclusive marketing. And as they take us to
new heights, I’m hopeful many others will follow suit. Safe travels and blue
skies to all. ✈️🌍🌈
If you believe in a more inclusive world, share this post
and let others know about the change in the skies! #InclusionTakesFlight