Last updated: 5:00 AM ET, Tue December 16, 2025
The Deaflympics, the international sporting competition for deaf and partially deaf athletes recognized by the International Olympic Committee, brought together more than 3,000 athletes competing across 21 disciplines from November 15 to 26, 2025, in Tokyo, Japan.
For this exceptional sporting event, Air France was proud to serve as the carrier for the French delegation – the largest in the country’s history to participate in the Deaflympics – with117 members, including 73 athletes and 44 staff.
Overall, Air France transported French athletes, deaf and partially deaf employees, accompanying staff members, and customers attending the competition via three dedicated flights.
Departing from Paris-Charles de Gaulle on flights AF282 and AF274, the delegation benefited from tailored support, with cabin crew trained in French Sign Language (LSF). Special arrangements were made, including a welcoming committee, as well as dedicated boarding and in-flight announcements to celebrate and encourage the French athletes.
One year after the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, the Deaflympics further demonstrate Air France’s ongoing commitment to inclusion and sport for all. This internal awareness initiative and the mobilization around the event fully align with the company’s determination to highlight its accessibility initiatives, foster an inclusive culture, and continue advancing diversity across the organization.
The Air France Saphir Program: A Commitment to Accessibility
Since 2001, the Saphir program has embodied Air France’s commitment to accessibility and inclusion. This complimentary initiative supports customers with disabilities, regardless of their type of impairment (reduced mobility, sensory, cognitive, or psychological).
Through Saphir, Air France offers a comprehensive range of personalized services, from booking to arrival, including assistance at the airport and onboard: mobility support, seating arrangements, check-in, and baggage retrieval.
At the heart of the program, a specialized team is available to address passengers’ needs, facilitate their journey, and ensure a safe, comfortable, and seamless travel experience. Saphir also works closely with partner associations, such as Handisport, to continuously improve the accessibility of Air France’s services.
With Saphir, Air France reaffirms its ambition to make air travel accessible to all, placing people at the center of its priorities.
For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.
Topics From This Article to Explore
