Resident urges stronger hearing-access services at Hartsfield–Jackson; committee pledges follow-up

During public comment, Tim Penny, a 71-year-old retired IT professional who described himself as having severe hearing loss, told the Transportation Committee he could not locate clear information about hearing-assistance services at Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport and urged the city and airport leadership to expand and publicize accommodations.

"If you go out on the airport's own website, I challenge you to find any information about what a person like me can do to get hearing assistance at the airport. It's practically nonexistent," Penny said, adding that he learned helpful information only recently from Karen Ellis and Angela Bowers. He referenced national statistics about hearing loss and the Americans with Disabilities Act as context for his request and cited other U.S. airports that have installed hearing loops and similar aids.

Committee chair Byron Amos acknowledged the issue and said he would connect Penny with airport leadership and the general manager, and the committee took communications earlier so the newly recommended airport general manager would be available to return to the airport to follow up. "If there's someone else that you need to be speaking with, I'm pretty sure they will put you in contact with them," Amos said.

Why it matters: The comment raises accessibility and ADA compliance questions for the region's busiest airport. Committee members indicated staff would assist in connecting the speaker with airport leadership and relevant staff to improve access and information for travelers with hearing impairments.

Details and next steps: Penny requested more visible, accessible information about hearing-assistance options and cited hearing loops and other approaches used at other airports. The committee committed to routing communications and ensuring the proposed general manager and airport leadership receive the request for follow-up.