Japanese carrier All Nippon Airways (ANA) has announced its commitment to the promotion of equal, rights for those living with disabilities by signing up to the “The Valuable 500” corporate leadership programme.

An international campaign for to promote disability inclusion, The Valuable 500 was launched earlier this year at the Davos World Economic Forum with the belief that “inclusive business creates inclusive societies,” and the goal of helping “disabled people reach their potential in business, society and the economy”.

“We will continue working to elevate a business environment that is both affirmative and productive”

Companies signing the agreement commit to ensuring that disability inclusion is immersed throughout the company by being included on the board’s agenda, making firm and actionable commitments to improve access.

“ANA has always prioritized accessibility and just as we seek to set a high standard for service, we look to extend this commitment to how employees are treated within our company and the community at large,” said Hideki Kunugi, executive VP of ANA.

Kunugi added: “Empowering our workforce and ensuring that all team members are able to meet their full potential not only makes ANA a stronger company, but also ends up benefitting the thousands of passengers that rely on our services every day. We will continue working to elevate a business environment that is both affirmative and productive.”

In addition to placing on both the global and Asia Pacific Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes, ANA was named “FTSE4Good Index” and “FTSE Blossom Japan Index” for its history of socially responsible investment. ANA has also championed disability inclusion efforts for passengers with its self-driving electric wheelchairs.

ANA will continue looking for opportunities to do social good and improve quality of life in all of the communities in which it operates.