Canadian officials updated its Intercity Bus Code of Practice to establish standards for accessible intercity bus services for persons with disabilities. The update reflects the evolution of services offered to travelers with a disability since the original Code was issued in 1998.

Transport Canada helped facilitate discussions between consumer members of the Minister's Advisory Committee on Accessible Transportation and an intercity bus industry working group. The group was made up of the Canadian Bus Association, Motor Coach Canada, l'Association des propriétaires d'autobus du Québec, Greyhound Canada and Orléans Express.

New accessibility provisions have been added to the Code to include such services as:

• Confirmation of reservations for accessible services.

•   Automated ticket dispensing machines.

•   Courtesy seating in terminals.

•   Relieving areas for service animals at bus terminals.

•   Carriage of mobility scooters as baggage.

•   Design loads for lifts and ramps.

•   Opportunities to board and disembark at flag stops.

•   Courtesy seating on buses.

•   Building standards for terminals.

•   Website accessibility.

The Intercity Bus Code of Practice, which represents a commitment by the intercity bus industry, is available here.