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Disabled Aerodynamics

Students in Massey University's Consumer Technology Department have been investigating the problems people in wheelchairs have with air travel. Air New Zealand was impressed by the new wheelchair designs and awarded a travel prize to student Nichola Gooding.

Professor Terry Cunniffe says that he had the students look at all aspects involved, from terminal design to plane layout. Air New Zealand has had problems with the standard UK flight wheelchair, as it is too wide for the airline's aisles. The rear wheels have to be taken off and are often lost, stranding the hapless passenger. There are plans to develop the new design commercially, with the aid of an Auckland engineering firm.

"What we're looking to do is create a more accessible environment," says Cunniffe. He sees the training suggestions and techniques as applicable to the broader community. Mobility problems for the disabled are also common to the elderly and to people travelling with babies.

"Obviously the students benefit," says Cunniffe. "If you can take the academic knowledge and apply it to real problems, it expands their understanding."

Changes suggested by the student reports have already been made, according to Cunniffe. He looks forward to an equally successful project this year. They'll be researching a simple vehicle to transport wheelchair-bound passengers between the distant terminals at Auckland Airport.