Aberdeen International Airport has worked with Colostomy UK to make all its accessible toilets and baby change rooms stoma friendly, helping people living with a stoma travel with greater confidence.
In total, nine facilities have been made stoma friendly, with two located before security and seven available post-security
Colostomy UK’s Stoma Friendly Toilets guidance asks venues to provide simple, practical features that allow people to change or empty their stoma bag safely, hygienically and with dignity.
Each of the facilities at Aberdeen International Airport now includes a shelf, a bin, a full-length mirror and two hooks.
These small changes can make a significant difference. They provide a clean and secure place for supplies, somewhere to dispose of used products and the facilities needed to change a stoma bag safely and discreetly.
Libby Herbert, Chief Executive of Colostomy UK, said: “We are delighted that Aberdeen International Airport has made all its accessible toilets and baby change rooms stoma friendly.
“Travelling can sometimes be stressful for people living with a stoma, particularly when they do not know whether suitable toilet facilities will be available. Simple features such as a shelf, bin, mirror and hooks can make a huge difference, giving people greater confidence, privacy and dignity.
“We would like to thank Aberdeen International Airport for listening to the needs of people living with a stoma and taking action. We hope other airports and transport hubs will follow their example.”
Robert Paterson, Operations Director at Aberdeen International Airport, said: “We want everyone who travels through Aberdeen International Airport to feel confident, comfortable and supported throughout their journey. These simple enhancements will make a real difference for people living with a stoma, providing facilities that help them manage their condition with greater privacy and dignity.
"Through our Accessibility Forum, we work closely with a number of charities and advocacy groups to better understand the needs of our passengers and identify meaningful improvements that can enhance the airport experience. We are pleased to have worked with Colostomy UK on this initiative and would encourage other charities and organisations to engage with us if they believe there are changes we can make that would help people travel with greater confidence.
"I would also like to thank our airport terminal team, who worked extremely hard to deliver these improvements across our facilities. Their commitment has helped ensure that people living with a stoma can travel through Aberdeen International Airport with greater comfort, confidence and peace of mind. Making our airport as accessible and inclusive as possible remains a key priority for us.”
The improvements support Colostomy UK’s wider Stoma Friendly Toilets campaign, which works with businesses, public bodies and venues to improve toilet facilities for people living with a stoma.
Aberdeen International Airport’s facilities will also be added to Colostomy UK’s Stoma Friendly Toilet Finder, helping people identify suitable facilities before they travel.
The introduction of stoma-friendly facilities forms part of Aberdeen International Airport’s wider commitment to accessibility and inclusive travel. The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) awarded the airport a “Very Good” rating in its 2025/26 Airport Accessibility Performance Report, highlighting the airport’s strong performance in supporting disabled and less mobile passengers.
About stoma-friendly toilets:
Colostomy UK’s guidance recommends that stoma-friendly facilities include:
• A shelf or flat surface close to the toilet
• A bin within the cubicle
• A full-length mirror
• Hooks for clothing, supplies and belongings