When traveling with a child who has sensory needs or autism, it’s important to remember that the journey can be stressful for your loved one. Luckily, many airports and airlines have introduced sensory-friendly programs, designated quiet spaces, and specialized training to help make air travel a bit smoother.
Below are the top autism-friendly airports and airlines from around the world to consider for your next trip!
Airlines
1. Emirates Airlines 🇦🇪
As the first certified autism-friendly airline, Emirates has created a travel experience that accommodates sensory-sensitive individuals. Their services include:
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Pre-travel resources, including a step-by-step travel guide
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Cabin crew trained in supporting passengers with autism
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Quieter boarding options to reduce sensory overload
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Sensory guides and products to assist neurodivergent passengers such as fidget toys
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Click here to hear it from Emirates
2. Delta Air Lines 🇺🇸
Delta has introduced a number of accommodations and programs to support neurodivergent travelers. This includes:
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Multi-Sensory Rooms in airports
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Airport Assistance
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In-Flight Assistance
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Click here to hear it from Delta
3. Southwest Airlines 🇵🇸
Southwest is known for its friendly policies and flexibility, making it a great option for families traveling with autism. They offer:
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Priority boarding for passengers who need extra time
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Participation in the "Wings for Autism" Program, which provides airport rehearsal opportunities for autistic travelers
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No change fees, which can reduce the stress of last-minute adjustments
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Click here to hear it from Southwest
4. JetBlue Airways 🇰🇷
JetBlue’s Blue Horizons for Autism program is designed to make flying easier for autistic passengers. Features include:
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A pre-travel airport practice day
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Dedicated crew training on how to support autistic travelers
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Accessibility assistance to help ensure a smoother experience for neurodivergent passengers
Airports
1. Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) 🇺🇸
Pittsburgh International Airport has created Presley’s Place, a state-of-the-art sensory room designed specifically for autistic travelers. It includes:
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A mock airplane cabin for practicing pre-flight experiences
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Adjustable lighting and calming features
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A private, quiet space for decompression before boarding
2. Ottawa International Airport (YOW)
Ottawa International Airport gets that traveling can be overstimulating so they create a step-by-step video that helps children and families become familiar with the airport process. It contains:
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Details about their Hidden Disabilities Program
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A time stamped description of every step of the airport process
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Goes over Arriving at the airport, checking in going through security, waiting to board the plane, on the plane, going through Customs, getting our bags
*Note that many airports offer the sunflower lanyard Hidden Disabilities Program. Click here to learn more about it and which airports make it available.
3. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) 🇺🇸
Despite being one of the busiest airports in the world, ATL has made great strides to become autism-friendly offering:
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A multi-sensory room featuring calming colors, soundproof walls, and therapeutic tools
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The Wings for All Program, which allows travelers to familiarize themselves with airport procedures before their flight
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TSA Cares assistance for travelers who need extra support during security screening
4. Vancouver International Airport (YVR) 🇨🇦
Vancouver International Airport has implemented the Beyond Accessibility plan, including:
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The YVR Autism Access Sticker for expedited screening and customs
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Collaboration with the Pacific Autism Family Network to improve services
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The I CAN Fly Resource Kit, which includes a visual storybook and step-by-step checklist to help families prepare for their journey
By choosing autism-friendly airports, you can ensure a more comfortable and stress-free journey!
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