PORTLAND, Oregon—March 30. TriMet is pleased to expand its accessibility offerings by piloting an on-demand visual interpreting service for blind and low vision transit users.
This innovative pilot program represents a significant step forward in how TriMet supports independence and access for riders who are blind or have low vision. With the touch of a button, any blind or low vision TriMet rider can be connected instantly to a visual interpreter who can provide them with assistance, for free.
If you’re a blind or low vision rider, here’s how it works:
- Download the free Aira Explorer app.
- While on TriMet, open the app and tap the button to connect with a professional visual interpreter.
- Using your phone camera and microphone, your interpreter can provide live, remote assistance by describing your surroundings.
Riders across TriMet’s bus, light rail, and commuter rail services can use Aira Explorer for assistance with navigating, purchasing tickets, locating their stop or platform, and planning their trips. Calls can be made 24/7/365, no advance reservations are required, and costs are entirely covered by TriMet. Connecting with a visual interpreter can support transit users in enjoying more independent travel on their own terms.
“By connecting riders in real time with trained visual interpreters to help navigate fixed-route service, we’re removing barriers to travel, enhancing confidence and empowering all customers to engage more fully with our system,” said Eileen Collins Turvey, TriMet Director of Accessible Transportation Programs. “TriMet is committed to inclusive service design and efforts that advance our goal of modern, equitable access for every rider.”
“A lack of access to visual information can be an impediment to independently getting where you need to go,” said Everette Bacon, Aira’s Chief of Blindness Initiatives. “We’re proud of our pilot with TriMet because it means expanding the accessibility and reach of their transit system and supporting more engaging, efficient and inclusive travel.”
The Aira Explorer pilot launched across TriMet in August 2025 and runs for 18 months. The app can be downloaded in the iOS App Store or the Google Play Store
About TriMet
TriMet provides bus, light rail, commuter rail and paratransit services across the Portland metro area. TriMet’s transit service connects people with their community, while easing traffic congestion and reducing air pollution — making the Portland metropolitan region a better place to live. For more information, visit www.trimet.org.
About Aira
At Aira, we believe access to information is a human right. Aira breaks down accessibility barriers by providing on-demand video remote interpreting for both the blind and low vision community, and the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community. People can download the Aira Explorer app or the Aira ASL app and be instantly connected to a highly-trained professional interpreter. Available 24/7/365, interpreters work with callers to facilitate more efficient communication and accomplish tasks together. Aira’s services are offered by leading companies globally, and our commitment to accessibility has garnered substantial recognition including a 2025 Golden Apple Award from AppleVis. Learn more about Aira Access.