On 14 November 2025, a dissemination event for DANOVA NEXT was held at Karin Dom, Varna, hosted by BATTI.
DANOVA NEXT is an international project promoting accessible transport for persons with disabilities and reduced mobility (PRM) across the Danube Region. Funded by Interreg Danube Region 2021-2027, it builds on the earlier DANOVA project and places stronger emphasis on innovative digital and physical solutions. The partnership brings together 16 partners from 11 countries, including airports, ports, transport operators, universities, and disability organisations.
What progress has been achieved so far?
The Varna event highlighted how the project is moving from planning into practical actions, combining a shared regional strategy, the development of a Smart Transport Network, targeted investments in transport hubs, and training to strengthen staff capacity and service quality.
Tangible upgrades across partner hubs
Several examples showcased the kind of improvements that make a direct difference to PRM passengers:
-
Chisinau Airport is introducing new wheelchairs, a Pathfinder evacuation chair, and intercom-based information points that help PRM travellers notify staff upon arrival, improving safety, communication, and personalised support.
-
Dubrovnik Airport is investing in specialised boarding wheelchairs, internal-use wheelchairs, a dedicated PRM waiting area, and a “PRM Corner”.
-
Airports in Montenegro have installed an accessible information desk, added non-metallic and electric wheelchairs, and improved accessibility at the “Lost & Found” desk.
-
Bratislava combines digital and physical accessibility: website adjustments for screen readers, solutions to overcome stairs, and 80 accessible ticket machines with audio communication options.
-
Sarajevo Airport is implementing stair-mobility equipment, PRM service management software, and an informative PRM journey video for arrivals/departures, including sign language interpretation.
The digital pillar: the DANOVA NEXT web application
A major milestone is the DANOVA NEXT web application, a platform connecting transport operators and passengers with real-time accessibility information. It supports an accessible interface, works with screen readers, can be translated via Google Translate, and will include future videos in sign language. It is designed as part of the expanding Smart Transport Network across the Danube Region.
Why it matters
DANOVA NEXT is not only about infrastructure, but it is also about building a transnational accessibility network that supports future policies, standards, and investments, aiming for a more sustainable, inclusive, and modern transport sector across the Danube Region.
