#Japan #Tokyo #Accessibility #Universal MaaS #One-Stop Support

Expansion of Collaborative Partners for Universal MaaS

The Universal Mobility as a Service (MaaS) initiative has taken a significant step forward by dramatically expanding the network of partners involved in its one-stop support arrangements. This development aims to streamline the travel experience for customers who require assistance or support during their journeys.

Traditionally, travelers needing assistance had to contact various service providers individually, which involved a cumbersome process of finding contact details and request procedures. The enhanced collaboration among airlines, railways, buses, taxis, and accommodation providers now enables customers to easily request support without the hassle of confirming details with each provider separately. This expansion not only reduces the burden on travelers but also improves the efficiency of information collection regarding customers requiring assistance.

This initiative has been selected as a project under the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism’s MaaS Promotion and Support Project for the fiscal year 2025. With increased partners, Universal MaaS seeks to ensure that individuals with mobility challenges can navigate their travel needs smoothly and comfortably.

Expanded Collaborators and Reach

The new collaborative partners include ANA and various local businesses in the Asahikawa area, along with major railway companies such as Keisei Electric Railway and Keikyu Corporation. Additionally, new connections with airlines such as AIRDO and Solaseed Air will expand services to the Hokkaido, Tokai, and Kyushu regions.

List of Participating Service Providers:

• - Airlines:

- ANA
- AIRDO
- Solaseed Air

• - Railways:

- JR Kyushu
- JR Hokkaido
- JR East
- JR Central
- Keisei Electric Railway
- Keikyu Corporation

• - Buses:

- Asahikawa Electric Railway
- Dōhoku Bus
- Tokai Bus

• - Taxis:

- Asahikawa Central Transport
- Kinsei Motor
- Sapporo Transport
- and others

• - Accommodation:

- Numerous facilities across the nation, providing the option for combined travel and lodging arrangements.

Service Utilization Date

The services are set to roll out consecutively among participating organizations starting January 2025, with specific travel assistance available across all identified partners. The one-stop support arrangements can be accessed through the Universal MaaS website, aiming to create a seamless and stress-free travel experience.

Benefits of One-Stop Support

One-stop support arrangements provide a centralized interface for customers to initiate their requests for assistance across various transport sectors, thus simplifying the process considerably. Key benefits include:

• - Web Completion: For partners categorized under model A, customers can complete support requests online for multiple transport types in a single travel itinerary.
• - Pre-Notification Capability: Partners categorized under model B allow advance notifications to handling staff, facilitating smoother handovers on travel day.
• - Customized Communication: For model C partners, information display and contact details streamline requesting assistance on an as-needed basis.

By unifying these processes, Universal MaaS not only enhances convenience for travelers but also creates a more effective framework for assistance service providers to gather necessary information efficiently.

Commitment to Inclusive Mobility

Through ongoing collaborations and advancements, Universal MaaS is dedicated to creating an inclusive travel environment where individuals with disabilities and elderly individuals can move comfortably, thus enjoying greater freedom and accessibility in their travels.

For further information about Universal MaaS and to access the one-stop support arrangements, please visit: Universal MaaS and One-Stop Support Arrangements.

Conclusion

With the supportive involvement of academic, governmental, and private sectors, Universal MaaS symbolizes a shift towards a more accessible world for everyone, ensuring that no one has to forgo travel due to mobility challenges. This initiative underscores the importance of inclusive service delivery within the mobility sector and strives to make journeys enjoyable for all.